Top 5 Skills Every MBA Needs

By Adam Gropman

The traditional Master of Business Administration degree used to guarantee the right preparation for a successful career. But times have changed, and so have some MBA programs as they seek to ready young executives for a world that differs markedly, even from the one of just a decade ago.

New developments in technology, as well as wider social and economic trends, require fresh skills and, consequently, new curriculum.

Utica College’s MBA program prepares the world’s next generation of managers to address the rapidly changing business environment and develop the skills that are essential for professional success.

1. Understanding of organizational behavior

Executives must have a wider sense of what can make their organizations successful. Utica’s Organization Development and Change course outlines what resources managers can use to implement change and improve their firms by considering the nature of their workforces – as well as larger themes.

2. Strategic thinking

The ability to think strategically can help ensure a company makes the right decisions. These decisions can relate to research and development initiatives, operational change, and which markets to enter. They also can play a major role in hiring, and other human resources actions that can determine a company’s direction for decades.

3. Data-driven decision making

Collecting data is only the first step in making use of the wealth of information that technology helps provide. Executives must understand how to analyze data; what facts will truly help them make better decisions and which ones are merely interesting. Learning how to use the data could be the key to becoming more efficient and profitable.

4. Financial fluency

Companies and investors measure business success on the bottom line. This requires executives to have a solid understanding of finance and accounting principles. Utica’s Financial Fluency courses offer students a solid background in how to interpret and use financial data in their decisions. They consider areas such as cost structure, forecasting and budgeting.

5. Computer fluency

Recent advances in technology have provided multiple benefits. They have enabled companies to find better employees faster and at a lower cost, improve manufacturing processes and engaging consumers with remarkable precision. But the latest systems have also created challenges. MBA grads must be comfortable using technology and understanding its pros and cons.

As a graduate of the Utica College MBA program, you will enter the workforce armed with both the training and the skills to advance your career and make an immediate impact in your organization. Completed in only two years of part-time study, tuition costs less than $20,000 – providing you with a high-quality MBA that’s relevant in today’s marketplace, at a very affordable price.

To request more information about the Utica College MBA program, call us today at 315.732.2640 – or toll-free at 866.295.3106.