To get an MBA or not to get one?

Question

I am currently a researcher at a fairly large company and have been thinking of going up the managerial career track. I have heard that the MBA is helpful in this endeavor. I also believe that this degree may make me very marketable outside of my current company. As I live in Chicago, there are a good number of very good schools. Specifically, my background is an MS and BS degree in molecular biology and have a little over 6 years of work experience spread between three places; 2 well regarded universities (both two years) and the large international corporation (almost 2.5 years) I currently work at. Any thoughts greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Having MBA degree in your bag will certainly help. As you clim higer on the corporate ladder the requirement of MBA will increase. We recently had discussion on
1) Is MBA worth It ?
2) MBA admission a hype or need.
These discussion will certainly help you you may read the transcript of these discussion at :
http://urpercentile.com/GD_MBA_Worth.htm
http://urpercentile.com/GD_MBA_Hype.htm
http://urpercentile.com/WhyMbaComments.htm

Answer 2

Great idea. You should look into whether your company will "foot the bill" for the tuition since it is likely to be steep if you want to enroll in a good MBA program. I've heard of many companies willing to do this. I assume you have already asked yourself this question. Do I want to be out of the laboratory environment and into "carpetland"?
Try to learn the "politics" of the Biotech/Pharm managerial environment of your company so you're prepared.
Best.

Answer 3

I have BS degrees in physics and engineering, an MS in systems management, and a PhD in bus. admin.

During my earlier years, I worked as a nuclear research associate, a rocket scientist, and a Naval Aviator. I found each and every degree, more specifically, the skills gained by studying for each degree, to be helpful in my careers.

In the case of the PhD, I received an automatic pay raise from Lockheed Martin (where I was a rocket scientist for their Missiles Systems Division) upon getting the degree. The writing and research skills learned while earning my doctorate, stood me in good stead and I soon found myself leading my own group in project planning.

In the case of the MS, I was hired by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory because they needed someone who knew something about systems analysis. Four years later, they gave me their Meritorious Service Award in Nuclear Research because of work I did using my systems analysis skills learned in college.

The BS in physics got me the interview with the Lab, even though it was the MS that got me hired. The BS in engineering led to the BS in physics. It also launched my career as a Naval Aviator.

Bottom line, the skills learned while earning a proper degree from a proper school can help in just about any career.

Answer 4

The MBA will make you more marketable.

While education is wonderful and I believe every person needs to reach to the heights, book smarts does not necessarily out weigh OJT..... BOTH should be considered imho.

But Human Resources look at those degrees and go; Oh, My! We Can't Let This One Get Away!

Answer 5

I'd say go for it. An MBA would help in almost anything. It shows how dedicated you are to your chosen career. And it boosts your resume in the eyes of the ones you are trying to apply to. They see hard work and dedication on your part and I am sure that they would assume you would do the same in the job being applied for.

Answer 6

An MBA coupled with your work and educational background will make an excellent package that many endeavors would want. Go for it. And good luck.