Before heading back to graduate school, it’s important that you know the types of jobs available with a Professional MBA to plan your career objectives. Professional MBA (PMBA) programs are graduate business administration degrees designed to meet the unique needs of full-time working adults who are seeking advancement into management. Most PMBA programs require applicants to already possess two to three years of business work experience. One of the best parts of earning a Professional MBA is the flexible class schedule. All required coursework will be delivered in evening hours, on the weekend, or even online from a distance. Since the PMBA is self-paced, professionals can create their own part-time timeline for up to five years, according to US News and World Report. Upon completion, the following are some of the hottest jobs available for PMBA graduates.

Management Analyst

Management analysts often work as consultants to advise organizations’ managers on the best practices for improving operational efficiency, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Businesses hire management analysts to find innovative strategies for boosting profitability and revenue while lowering budget costs. Most management analysts are educated at the PMBA level to develop the strong acumen needed to recommend new systems or procedures for resolving key business issues. In exchange, management analysts reap a good return on investment with an average yearly salary of $90,860.

Investment Fund Manager

Investment fund managers are financial analysts responsible for creating a fund’s investing strategy and managing its trading transactions. Investment fund managers typically make split-second decisions based on current market conditions to grow the hedge funds or mutual funds they’re overseeing. Having a PMBA prepares investment fund managers to move into more advanced positions and meeting with top executives to recommend investing solutions. Fund managers bring home a mean annual wage of $92,250, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Marketing Manager

Going the extra distance to obtain a Professional MBA may be ideal for individuals seeking a promotion as marketing manager. Marketing managers are given the hefty task of accurately estimating the demand for their organization’s products or services. It’s their duty to help businesses maximize profits and outpace competitors while maintaining optimal customer satisfaction. Marketing managers play a vital role in creating pricing strategies that appeal to the company’s targeted customer base. Marketing managers make a handsome six-figure average salary of $137,400 yearly, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Chief Executive

Chief executives are senior directors who plan, direct, and supervise operational activities in their organizations to ensure that all departmental goals are being met. Chief executives are given supreme power in establishing organizational policies, appointing managers, and consulting with other executives. Earning a PMBA could place graduates on the track to being a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Information Officer (CIO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), or Chief Executive Officer (CEO), but 10 years of experience is usually needed. Chief executives work at the highest level of management with a mean annual income of $180,700, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Overall, the Professional MBA is specifically designed to broaden career opportunities for currently working students looking to advancement into mid to upper-level management. PMBA programs are usually a good investment for sharpening leadership skills and gaining valuable networking connections with other business colleagues. While it’s not required that you have your career plans set in stone for a PMBA, it’s important to have an idea of your business future to maximize recruitment opportunities. In addition to these types of jobs available with a Professional MBA, you could also become an IT director, human resources manager, health administrator, sales manager, administrative services manager, and more.