Exploring MBA career success

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the meaning of career success in relation to the attainment of an MBA degree, for a group of experienced managers. In so doing, the paper aims to consider the adequacy of MBA career success, defined solely in terms of external criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 36 in‐depth interviews were undertaken with MBA alumni which sought to capture the individual's own account of their career success in relation to their MBA. The study utilised an inductive data analysis approach.

Findings

The findings revealed a diversity of meanings given to MBA career success, with success generally being expressed in much broader terms than conventional notions of fast track career advancement. The salience of internal criteria for judging MBA career success is thus highlighted. The findings may be seen to further dispel the myth that MBA students are concerned exclusively with status and salary.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on the experiences of graduates from only one MBA programme. Additionally, the study reports retrospective accounts of MBA career success, a longitudinal design would be advantageous.

Practical implications

The demonstration of a plurality of career success provides potential advantage for business schools recruiting MBA students. Organisations can benefit from a wider understanding of MBA career success.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that the value of the MBA encompasses more than fast track career success.

Citation

Hay, A. and Hodgkinson, M. (2006), "Exploring MBA career success", Career Development International, Vol. 11 No. 2, pp. 108-124. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620430610651877