This paper adds to existing literature regarding MBA selection processes and
helps identify and better understand the needs that motivate consumers to pursue an
MBA degree. Through a series of qualitative, one-on-one interviews with 17 brand-new
MBA students or prospective students, this research found that while many people have
“always wanted” to earn the advanced degree, most have toyed with the idea of a
graduate business degree for many years. The most frequent reasons that people cite
regarding their decision to seriously consider an MBA at a large southern university
centers around four desires. These are, not surprisingly, the desire to earn more money,
the desire to change careers, the desire to advance their careers by obtaining a required
credential, and the desire for knowledge that can be obtained by earning the degree.
Further, this research identified the single most important factor that prospects considered
when determining which university to attend for the MBA degree: the university's ability
to help make them more marketable or advance their career. Other answers included cost,
university's reputation, convenience, program duration, the university's location, and the
caliber of peers in the classroom.