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What Jobs Can You Get With an MBA Degree

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    Are you considering pursuing an MBA degree in Australia but wondering what career opportunities await you upon graduation? The field of business is vast and ever-evolving, offering a plethora of paths for MBA graduates to explore. 

    From leading multinational corporations to driving entrepreneurial ventures, the possibilities are as diverse as the business landscape. So, what jobs can you get with an MBA degree in Australia? Let's delve into the exciting world of career prospects that await ambitious MBA graduates Down Under.

    In Australia, an MBA degree opens doors to a wide range of high-level managerial and leadership positions across various industries. With its emphasis on strategic thinking, analytical skills, and a holistic understanding of business operations, an MBA equips graduates with the knowledge and expertise to excel in roles such as business consultant, financial manager, marketing director, or operations manager. 

    The demand for skilled professionals with an MBA continues to grow as organisations seek dynamic leaders who can navigate complex business challenges and drive innovation.

    As you embark on your journey to pursue an MBA degree in Australia, remember that the job market is highly competitive. Therefore, it is essential to stay updated with industry trends and build a strong professional network. 

    So, without further ado, let's explore the vast realm of career possibilities awaiting MBA graduates in Australia, guided by the wisdom of industry experts who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields.

    Quick Links To Master Of Business Administration Online Programs

    RMIT

    Master of Business Administration Online

    • 2.7 years part-time. Reduced duration available
    • $4,560 per course, FEE-HELP available 
    • Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct

    Southern Cross University

    Master of Business Administration Online

    • 2 years part-time
    • Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct
    • $2,990 per unit, FEE-HELP available

    UTS Online

    Master of Business Administration Online

    • 2 years (minimum)*, Part-time
    • 12 subjects | 7-week study blocks
    • $4,250 per subject**, FEE-HELP available

    James Cook University

    Master of Business Administration Global (MBA Online)

    • $3,700 per subject , FEE-HELP is available 
    • 24 months, Part-time 
    • 12 (One subject per each 7-week study period)

    Benefits of an MBA Degree

    An MBA, or Master of Business Administration, is a versatile degree that equips you with various skills, including leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen. This degree is recognised worldwide and is highly valued in various sectors, making it an attractive option for individuals aiming for senior management roles.

    Enhanced Career Opportunities

    An MBA can open doors to a plethora of career opportunities. The degree is not industry-specific, meaning that MBA graduates can find work in virtually any sector. So whether you're passionate about finance, marketing, consulting, or technology, an MBA can help you reach new career heights.

    Increased Earning Potential

    MBA graduates typically command higher salaries than those with only a bachelor's degree. It is because the degree signals to employers that you have advanced skills and can contribute significantly to the organisation's growth.

    Types of MBA Degrees

    Full-Time MBA

    A full-time MBA is a traditional two-year program where students are fully immersed in their studies. This type of MBA is ideal for individuals who can afford to take a break from their careers to focus solely on their education.

    Executive MBA

    An Executive MBA (EMBA) is designed for professionals with substantial work experience who want to enhance their leadership skills without leaving their job. The program is usually flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with their professional commitments.

    Part-Time MBA

    A part-time MBA is ideal for professionals who want to upgrade their skills but need help to afford to leave their job. These programs offer flexible schedules, enabling students to learn independently.

    Job Opportunities with an MBA Degree

    Finance Sector

    MBA graduates can thrive in the finance sector, securing roles such as financial manager, investment banker, or financial advisor. These roles require a deep understanding of financial markets, which an MBA program provides.

    Consulting Sector

    The consulting sector values the problem-solving skills and strategic mindset that MBA graduates bring to the table. Popular roles include management consultant, business analyst, and strategy consultant.

    Technology Sector

    With the rise of tech giants like Google and Amazon, there's a growing demand for MBA graduates in the technology sector. Roles include product manager, operations manager, and business development manager.

    Healthcare Sector

    The healthcare sector needs MBA graduates to manage hospitals, design policies, and oversee healthcare delivery systems. Jobs include healthcare administrator, hospital CFO, and healthcare consultant.

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    10 MBA Graduate Jobs That Could Be Yours in 2023

    You are one of many people to ponder making a career change shortly. According to our poll results, 32% of those who possess an MBA had intentions of quitting their jobs over the next six months. And the fact that they have the necessary certifications allows them to.

    Because you will have the confidence that comes from having an MBA, you will be able to look for greater and better things, knowing that you can achieve them.

    So, after getting an MBA, what kinds of jobs are there to choose? We've come up with ten different opportunities that could pique your interest, considering your previous job experience and the sector in which you currently operate. 

    1. Director Of Business Development

    The primary tasks of a Director of Business Development at an organisation are to oversee other business developments and sales employees, bring in new business, maintain connections with new and existing clients, and bring in new clients. According to Talent.com Australia, the average income for the Director of Business Development position is $155,689 per year.

    2. Senior Management Consultant

    A Senior Management Consultant collaborates closely with an organisation's senior management. They strengthen the corporation by resolving problems, providing financial and business analyses, and examining various strategic options. According to Seek, the typical annual income for a Senior Management Consultant in Australia is approximately $110,000.

    3. Marketing Communications Director

    You will supervise an organisation or department's marketing and communications efforts and its management team in this position. Among the responsibilities associated with this role are the creation and execution of marketing strategies, developing brand strategies, creating internal and external budgets, and maintaining connections with internal and external stakeholders.

    According to Payscale, the average income for a Marketing Communications Director is $143,996; this places it among the highest-paying positions for MBA graduates.

    4. Accounting Manager

    An Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing a company or organisation's accounting department and the management of accounting-related tasks, including billing, financial reporting, payroll, and budgets. 

    According to data provided by Payscale, the average annual income for this manager category in Australia is $91,498. According to the National Skills Commission findings, employment opportunities in professional, scientific, and technical services are expected to increase by 11% shortly. It covers professions in the accounting and legal services industries.

    5. HR Manager

    An organisation's Human Resources (HRHR) Manager is the individual responsible for the HRHR policies and activities of the company. Although HR Manager jobs might vary from company to company, they are typically in charge of designing policies and procedures that assist businesses in operating effectively and people in achieving their goals.

    Most people in this area will have an undergraduate degree in business with a concentration in human resources. However, having an MBA will set you apart from the competition and provide you with the knowledge in management and leadership that you need to take on senior jobs. According to Seek, the annual income of a human resources manager in Australia varies between $115,000 and $135,000.

    6. Strategic Planning Manager

    For a firm to realise its objectives, it is the responsibility of the Strategic Planning Manager to analyse and enhance the business plans that are currently in place.

    They accomplish this by researching and analysing the trends and other organisations within the industry, developing new business strategies, and evaluating the results of those efforts. According to information provided by Glassdoor, the annual salary for a Manager of Strategic Planning is around $181,248.

    7. Financial Manager

    One who manages finances for an organisation or company is accountable for the personnel working in the finance department and the organisation's or firm's overall financial health. They are responsible for budgeting, reviewing financial reports, ensuring regulatory compliance, and identifying financial risks and opportunities. 

    However, obtaining an MBA in addition to these qualifications will demonstrate your broader business acumen and is required for most professions (such as Certified Public Accountant or Certified Public Accountant).

    A Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in finance will put you ahead of the competition if that is your ultimate goal. Seek reports that the average compensation for a Financial Manager in Australia is currently in the range of $115,000 to $135,000.

    8. Project Manager

    Project managers operate in various sectors, from the information technology industry to the infrastructure sector, and are responsible for the design and execution of large-scale projects. To succeed in project management tasks, having an industry qualification or a bachelor's degree in a related area, such as engineering or business, is frequently beneficial. 

    However, getting an MBA might make your resume stand out. An MBA can help you develop your abilities in scheduling, human resources, and strategic planning, all of which are essential to the day-to-day work of project managers. Payscale reports that the average income for a project manager is $100,613 per year. 

    9. Systems Manager

    An organisation's computer and information systems fall under the purview of a Systems Manager, sometimes called an IT Systems Manager. It includes managing people in the information technology department, setting budgets, deploying software, and evaluating the requirements for both technology and security. 

    According to the results of our poll, seventy-one per cent of individuals who possess an MBA have had a business in the information technology sector and made an effort to attract them in the previous twelve months; this indicates that there is potential for the industry to expand in the coming years. According to Payscale, the annual salary for an IT Systems Manager is an average of 93,062 dollars.

    10. Health Services Manager

    It is necessary to have a Health Services Manager to effectively manage services such as hospitals, nursing homes for the elderly, and community health centres. They attend to everything, including the treatment of patients, the management of cases, and the supervision of staff. 

    Students who have completed an undergraduate degree programme in health or nursing and are interested in pursuing a career as a health service manager may wish to pursue a Master of Business Administration

    They would be equipped with the necessary knowledge of business and management to prosper in this challenging profession as a result of this. This profession has an estimated average pay of $121,570 per year, according to Talent.com Australia. 

    15 Best MBA Degree Jobs That Pay Well

    Consider the following frequent career paths for MBA graduates if you are now pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree or are thinking about doing so in the future. Simply clicking on the provided links will take you to Indeed's most recent information regarding salaries.

    1. Accountant

    National average salary: $53,735 per year

    Primary duties: An accountant, who may also be referred to as a CPA or certified public accountant (if certified), compiles financial records for people, businesses, and other organisations.

    They ensure that all financial records are accurate and file tax statements and returns for firms and individuals promptly while adhering to all applicable laws and regulations. They also contribute to the reduction of expenses, the enhancement of efficiency, and the explanation of their findings to higher-level managers and executives.

    2. Health Centre Manager

    National average salary: $62,673 per year

    Primary duties: The financial matters and day-to-day operations of nursing homes, hospitals, and other types of patient care facilities are the responsibility of the management of health centres.

    In addition, they are responsible for the creation of work schedules, the monitoring and upkeep of budget records, the supervision of the training of staff members, and the facilitation of communication between doctors, staff, and patients.

    Healthcare executives and administrators are both names used to refer to health centre managers. Typically, these professionals hold an MBA with a specialisation in public health.

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    3. Marketing Manager

    National average salary: $63,392 per year

    Primary duties: A marketing manager plans marketing programmes to attract new customers and persuade existing customers to make additional purchases. In addition, marketing managers will present estimations of customer demand and research potential new markets for their companies.

    4. Logistics Manager

    National average salary: $63,996 per year

    Primary duties: A logistics manager's responsibilities often include coordinating and analysing an organisation's supply chain. They are responsible for managing the full product life cycle for the company, which includes determining how products are acquired, distributed, and delivered by staff members.

    Increasing a company's earnings through excellent global supply chain management is one of the best ways to grow a business. Because most multinational organisations have facilities and suppliers located on more than one continent, they require the assistance of supply chain professionals to ensure that their operations continue to run smoothly.

    As a result, most logistics managers hold an MBA, emphasising operations or supply chain management. 

    5. Sales Manager

    National average salary: $64,531 per year

    Primary duties: Sales or marketing managers are responsible for improving sales practices and making recommendations. They are responsible for developing sales strategies and promotions, establishing sales quotas, instructing sales employees, and determining good commissions for sales personnel.

    Additionally, sales managers are responsible for analysing market trends to forecast the requirements and preferences of clients and suggest the most lucrative new markets.

    As an illustration, a sales manager for a family restaurant would recommend to executives that the establishment's future site be as close to the neighbourhood school as possible.

    On their journey to and from school each day, children and their families will have the opportunity to see signs displaying the most recent deals. The majority of sales managers hold an MBA with a concentration in marketing. 

    6. Consultant

    National average salary: $66,103 per year

    Primary duties: Consultants, who may also be called management consultants, management analysts, or business consultants, provide their firms with the professional skills necessary for resolving new problems or implementing new policies, practises, or procedures.

    They work towards enhancing productivity and profitability while simultaneously planning for longer-term adjustments, such as the introduction of new regulations or changes in the demographics of their consumer base.

    They can also increase employee productivity and provide CEOs, CFOs, and other executives with specialised advice. It is common practice for businesses that provide this role to deal with several clients on a project-by-project or contract basis. However, most consultants focus their services on a single sector, such as the transportation sector, the retail sales sector, or the healthcare sector. 

    7. Investment Banker

    National average salary: $67,538 per year

    Primary duties: Investment bankers are responsible for issuing debt and selling company shares. In addition, they offer clients assistance with mergers and acquisitions and guidance on other investment options, including derivatives. 

    8. Business Operations Manager

    National average salary: $67,782 per year

    Primary duties: A business operations manager is responsible for efficiently managing global supply networks, which helps bring down costs.

    They are responsible for the management of financial policies, the generation of financial reports, the collaboration with others in the creation of corporate budgets, the oversight of marketing campaigns, and the management of stock losses. Other titles for these positions are chief operations officers, COOs, and operations directors. 

    9. Human Resources Manager

    National average salary: $70,628 per year

    Primary duties: All of the company's administrative tasks are planned, directed, and coordinated under the purview of a human resources manager. They are responsible for recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new employees, and they collaborate with leaders to develop long-term hiring strategies. They also handle disciplinary procedures and act as mediators between employees who are in conflict. 

    10. Budget Analyst

    National average salary: $71,213 per year

    Primary duties: A budget analyst assists corporations and organisations in managing their financial resources. Analysts of the budget frequently put together budget reports, keep tabs on the expenditures of institutions, and analyse quarterly or yearly budget plans. 

    11. Financial Analyst

    National average salary: $71,337 per year

    Primary duties: A financial analyst or securities analyst advises and guides firms on how they should invest their money in securities and other types of assets. They evaluate the performance of stocks, bonds, and other comparable investments. After that, they provide their customers with in-depth counsel while also making forecasts on the possible outcomes of the assets.

    For instance, a financial analyst working for a chain of fast-food restaurants may help the company discover the ideal location for the next restaurant by estimating the market's value increase for the piece of land on which the restaurant will be constructed.

    Many financial analysts, much like consultants, work with diverse customers in their careers. Some financial advisors also offer their services to individuals. Most financial analysts hold an MBA that specialises in finance as their area of concentration. 

    12. Purchasing Manager

    National average salary: $71,900 per year

    Primary duties: A purchasing manager is responsible for planning and coordinating purchasing of an organisation's products, resources, and supplies. They are also responsible for overseeing buyers and purchasing agents at the local or regional level. Purchasing managers, much like logistics managers, contribute to the coordination of the supply chain.

    However, their primary concern is ensuring that the items necessary for the firm's operation are available for purchase. For instance, a purchasing manager of a retail store would have to place orders for holiday merchandise such as Christmas trees in plenty of time for the store to put them on sale well before Thanksgiving.

    Purchasing managers are also responsible for negotiating prices with wholesalers and contractors to obtain the most favourable rates for goods and services. These industry experts often hold an MBA with an emphasis in either operations management or supply chain management. 

    13. Policy Analyst

    National average salary: $76,248 per year

    Primary duties: A policy analyst tries to educate people about public policies, collects data on how those policies affect people, and makes recommendations for policy changes as necessary. They might find employment with the federal government, a university, or a private research organisation. 

    14. Project Manager

    National average salary: $77,162 per year

    Primary duties: One or more initiatives within an organisation, such as the launch of a new product, may fall under the purview of a project manager. They are responsible for managing quality control, employee scheduling, fulfilling deadlines, providing supervisors with updates, procuring supplies and materials, marketing, and other responsibilities. 

    15. Operations Research Analyst

    National average salary: $82,360 per year (USUS Bureau of Labor Statistics)

    Primary duties: An operations research analyst collaborates with employees from a company's departments. They advise managers on how to distribute limited finances and resources in the most effective manner possible. In addition to this, they devise productive manufacturing schedules, successfully manage supply chain operations and formulate reasonable pricing strategies.

    To increase a company's profit margins, analysts specialising in operations research employ various sophisticated analytical techniques, such as statistical analysis, economic simulations, and predictive modelling. 

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, pursuing an MBA degree in Australia opens up exciting and lucrative career opportunities. The combination of high-quality education, practical skills development, and strong networking opportunities equips graduates with the necessary tools to thrive in the competitive job market. Whether you have a passion for finance, marketing, consulting, or entrepreneurship, an MBA degree can pave the way for success in various industries.

    Ready to explore the diverse range of job prospects an MBA degree can offer in Australia? Discover which path suits your interests and aspirations best! What type of MBA career are you most intrigued by? Share your thoughts below, and let's dive deeper into the world of possibilities together!

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    Content Summary

    • The field of business is vast and ever-evolving, offering a plethora of paths for MBA graduates to explore.
    • In Australia, an MBA degree opens doors to a wide range of high-level managerial and leadership positions across various industries.
    • As you embark on your journey to pursue an MBA degree in Australia, remember that the job market is highly competitive.
    • An MBA, or Master of Business Administration, is a versatile degree that equips you with various skills, including leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen.
    • An MBA can open doors to a plethora of career opportunities.
    • It is because the degree signals to employers that you have advanced skills and can contribute significantly to the organisation's growth.
    • A full-time MBA is a traditional two-year program where students are fully immersed in their studies.
    • MBA graduates can thrive in the finance sector, securing roles such as financial manager, investment banker, or financial advisor.
    • These roles require a deep understanding of financial markets, which an MBA program provides.
    • With the rise of tech giants like Google and Amazon, there's a growing demand for MBA graduates in the technology sector.
    • According to our poll results, 32% of those who possess an MBA had intentions of quitting their jobs over the next six months.
    • The primary tasks of a Director of Business Development at an organisation are to oversee other business developments and sales employees, bring in new business, maintain connections with new and existing clients, and bring in new clients.
    • According to Talent.com Australia, the average income for the Director of Business Development position is $155,689 per year.
    • A Senior Management Consultant collaborates closely with an organisation's senior management.
    • According to Seek, the typical annual income for a Senior Management Consultant in Australia is approximately $110,000.
    • You will supervise an organisation or department's marketing and communications efforts and its management team in this position.
    • According to Payscale, the average income for a Marketing Communications Director is $143,996; this places it among the highest-paying positions for MBA graduates.
    • For a firm to realise its objectives, it is the responsibility of the Strategic Planning Manager to analyse and enhance the business plans that are currently in place.
    • According to information provided by Glassdoor, the annual salary for a Manager of Strategic Planning is around $181,248.
    • A Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in finance will put you ahead of the competition if that is your ultimate goal.
    • To succeed in project management tasks, having an industry qualification or a bachelor's degree in a related area, such as engineering or business, is frequently beneficial.
    • However, getting an MBA might make your resume stand out.
    • Payscale reports that the average income for a project manager is $100,613 per year.
    • According to Payscale, the annual salary for an ITIT Systems Manager is an average of 93,062 dollars.
    • It is necessary to have a Health Services Manager to effectively manage services such as hospitals, nursing homes for the elderly, and community health centres.
    • Students who have completed an undergraduate degree programme in health or nursing and are interested in pursuing a career as a health service manager may wish to pursue a Master of Business Administration.
    • Consider the following frequent career paths for MBA graduates if you are now pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree or are thinking about doing so in the future.
    • In addition, marketing managers will present estimations of customer demand and research potential new markets for their companies.
    • Increasing a company's earnings through excellent global supply chain management is one of the best ways to grow a business.
    • As a result, most logistics managers hold an MBA with an emphasis on operations or supply chain management.
    • Investment bankers are responsible for issuing debt and selling shares in companies.
    • All of the company's administrative tasks are planned, directed, and coordinated under the purview of a human resources manager.
    • A budget analyst assists corporations and organisations in managing their financial resources.
    • They are also responsible for overseeing buyers and purchasing agents at the local or regional level.
    • Purchasing managers, much like logistics managers, contribute to the coordination of the supply chain.
    • However, their primary concern is ensuring that the items necessary for the firm's operation are available for purchase.
    • For instance, a purchasing manager of a retail store would have to place orders for holiday merchandise such as Christmas trees in plenty of time for the store to put them on sale well before Thanksgiving.
    • Purchasing managers are also responsible for negotiating prices with wholesalers and contractors to obtain the most favourable rates for goods and services.
    • These industry experts often hold an MBA with an emphasis in either operations management or supply chain management.
    • A policy analyst tries to educate people about public policies, collects data on how those policies affect people, and makes recommendations for policy changes as necessary.
    • They might find employment with the federal government, a university, or a private research organisation.
    • One or more initiatives within an organisation, such as the launch of a new product, may fall under the purview of a project manager.
    • An operations research analyst collaborates with employees from a company's departments.
    • In conclusion, pursuing an MBA degree in Australia opens up a world of exciting and lucrative career opportunities.
    • The combination of high-quality education, practical skills development, and strong networking opportunities equips graduates with the necessary tools to thrive in the competitive job market.
    • Whether you have a passion for finance, marketing, consulting, or entrepreneurship, an MBA degree can pave the way for success in various industries.

    FAQs

    You can explore various career opportunities across industries with an MBA degree in Australia. Some common job roles that MBA graduates pursue include management consultant, financial analyst, marketing manager, operations manager, business development manager, and project manager. You may also find employment in executive positions such as CEO or CFO, depending on your experience and expertise.

    An MBA degree can significantly enhance your job prospects in Australia for several reasons. Firstly, it equips you with broad business skills and knowledge, making you a valuable asset for organisations seeking managerial talent. Secondly, it provides a strong professional network through networking events, alumni connections, and industry partnerships, which can lead to job opportunities. Lastly, many employers in Australia specifically seek candidates with advanced business degrees like an MBA for senior positions, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

    While work experience is not always mandatory for pursuing an MBA degree in Australia, it is highly beneficial. Most reputable business schools prefer applicants with prior work experience, as it brings real-world insights to the classroom and enriches the learning experience for students and their peers. Moreover, having work experience allows you to relate the theoretical concepts taught in the program to practical situations, making you a more effective leader and problem-solver.

    Yes, international students who complete an MBA degree in Australia can work there after graduation. The Australian government offers various work visas, such as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which allows international students to remain in Australia and gain work experience for a specific period after completing their studies. Additionally, suppose an employer is willing to sponsor you. In that case, you may also be eligible for skilled work or an employer-sponsored visa, which can lead to permanent residency in Australia.

    The salary prospects for MBA graduates in Australia are generally favourable. However, they vary depending on the industry, job role, location, and prior work experience. On average, MBA graduates in Australia can expect higher starting salaries compared to candidates with bachelor's degrees. According to industry reports, the average annual salary for MBA graduates in Australia ranges from AUD 90,000 to AUD 150,000. Still, it can go significantly higher for individuals with substantial experience and expertise, particularly in executive-level positions.

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