An MBA is a substantial commitment of time and money. Rudi’s published background includes an Executive MBA at Henley Business School, but one person’s decision cannot establish whether a course will be worthwhile for you.
Start with the change you hope the qualification will support. A clearer purpose makes it easier to compare an MBA with other forms of learning and experience.
Name the opportunity you are working towards
Look at the roles or responsibilities that interest you. Is the qualification required, preferred or simply one possible route? Speak to people who understand the work, and ask what evidence of ability matters alongside formal study.
Count more than the course fee
Consider tuition, travel, materials and any reduction in earnings. Then look at study time, family commitments and the work you may have to postpone. If employer support is available, read the conditions, including any repayment agreement if you leave.
Compare credible alternatives
A focused course, professional qualification, mentoring relationship or project at work may address a specific gap. Compare what each option teaches, how you will practise it and whether it gives you evidence relevant to your goal.
Networking and a wider business perspective may matter to you too. Ask recent students about their experience without treating their outcomes as a forecast.
Make a decision you can explain
Write down the opportunity, the total commitment and the alternatives. Separate what you know from what you hope will happen. A projected salary increase is not guaranteed, and an attractive average can conceal very different individual outcomes.
Use the income-growth plan to identify the question you need to answer before applying. It is reasonable to decide to study, to wait or to pursue another route.
Put this into practice
Open the income growth plan, or follow the income & career pathway. Choose one action before adding another article to your list.
