My MBA Career: Shifting Trends in MBA Candidate Preferences

Last Updated on April 24, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

A recent survey of prospective MBA students conducted by education consultancy CarringtonCrisp has revealed a significant shift in preferences towards online and hybrid study options. The poll found that only 22% of students now prefer full-time on-campus study, compared to 47% just a year ago.

Moreover, the majority (72%) of respondents expressed a desire to study full time, with 42% favoring a mix of campus and online study. This growing interest in alternative qualifications to the traditional MBA, including professional qualifications, master’s degrees, and short non-degree courses, underscores the need for business schools to adapt their offerings to meet changing student preferences and industry demands.

The survey also highlighted a trend towards AI content in courses, with more than half of respondents valuing AI skills the highest. This preference for technology-related skills signifies the importance of incorporating AI education into MBA programs to remain competitive in the evolving landscape of graduate business education.

It is clear that MBA programs must adapt to cater to changing student preferences or risk falling behind in the market. Business schools that can innovate their offerings to incorporate online and hybrid study options, alternative qualifications, and AI content are likely to attract a strong cohort of students, while those that fail to do so may struggle to remain competitive in the modern education environment.