Earning an advanced business degree can open doors to new opportunities and provide the skills needed to thrive in leadership roles. The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) – General program from Arkansas State University (A-State) provides a flexible, comprehensive education designed to prepare graduates for success across industries. Through a broad-based curriculum and the freedom to choose electives that align with personal interests, students gain both depth and breadth in their business education.
This type of program is designed for professionals who want to sharpen their business acumen, increase their earning potential and expand their career prospects. An MBA is also an excellent pathway for those looking to qualify for leadership roles, pivot to a new field or deepen their understanding of core business functions.
What Is an MBA General Degree?
A general MBA provides training in a wide range of business disciplines, giving students a strong foundation in areas like finance, marketing, operations and strategic management. According to Harvard Business Review, employers continue to value the versatility that comes with an MBA education, particularly for roles that require managing cross-functional teams and navigating complex organizational challenges.
Rather than focusing on a single specialty, the program offers exposure to multiple functions that shape an organization’s success. This approach prepares graduates to adapt to different roles and industries, making it an excellent choice for those who value flexibility in their career paths.
General MBA vs. Specialized MBA
One of the first decisions prospective students face when considering an online MBA degree is whether to choose a general or specialized program. A specialized MBA often focuses on a narrow area, such as finance, healthcare management, real estate or data analytics. While this path may benefit those with very specific career goals, a general MBA offers broader preparation.
A general program provides a comprehensive understanding of key business areas, preparing graduates for a wider range of opportunities and leadership positions. This versatility can be especially valuable for professionals who may want to pivot between roles or industries over the course of their careers.
Exploring General MBA Courses
A-State’s general MBA curriculum blends essential business theory with practical applications. Core courses include Accounting for Planning and Control, Managerial Economics and Strategic Marketing, covering topics like ethical leadership, international business, enterprising technology and decision-making methods.
These courses provide the tools needed to evaluate problems, design solutions and lead with confidence in today’s competitive marketplace. In addition, students select three electives from a range of options. Students can dive into niche topics through courses such as International Financial Markets, Financial Statement Analysis, Healthcare Marketing and more, allowing them to tailor their education toward specific career goals. As Will Geoghegan and Sarah Wanger highlight in a Business Horizons article, the ability to customize one’s studies can make MBA programs more relevant and impactful for individual learners.
Jobs for Business Majors: The Value of a General MBA
Graduates with a general MBA are well-positioned for a variety of roles, from management to executive-level positions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), general and operations managers earn a median annual salary of $101,280, with the top 10% earning more than $232,100.
These figures reflect the significant earning potential of MBA graduates, particularly those who pursue positions with substantial responsibilities. Whether they aspire to managing teams, overseeing operations or driving strategic initiatives, MBA students complete the program with the knowledge and skills needed reach their goals.
How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA?
For many working adults, program length is a key factor in deciding whether to pursue graduate education. A-State’s online format grants flexibility, enabling students to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing personal and professional obligations.
Many general MBA programs can be completed in one to two years, depending on enrollment status and chosen course load. Students can earn their general MBA degree online from A-State in as few as 12 months. This accelerated path enables learners to quickly apply their new skills in the workplace, helping them see returns on their investment sooner.
Building a Strong Future With a General MBA
Earning a general MBA degree is an investment in personal and professional growth. By gaining a broad understanding of business functions and sharpening critical leadership skills, graduates become strong candidates for advancement and higher earning potential.
The comprehensive nature of a general MBA from A-State equips professionals with the versatile skill set and strategic thinking capabilities needed to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. With the flexibility of online learning and the program’s broad foundation in essential business disciplines, graduates are positioned to seize leadership opportunities, command higher salaries and adapt successfully to evolving career demands across multiple industries.
Learn more about Arkansas State University‘s online Master of Business Administration – General program.