The world of work has changed over the past 20 years, and many open positions in corporate America require that applicants have a bachelor's degree or higher to even apply. Many civilians may think that they have the edge over veterans in this respect, but if you're one of the many service members with a college degree, seeking a master's, you're head and shoulders above the competition and stand to earn a higher salary.
Veterans Storm MBA Programs
Many former service members have realized that a MBA makes them a preferred job candidate over civilian counterparts and have enrolled, in record numbers, to business schools. A recent MilitaryMBA.net survey found business schools have seen 49% growth in enrollment from students with a military background this year. The highest enrollment numbers are seen at the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business and Vanderbilt's Graduate School of Management.
"We've seen a sharp increase in the number of applications over the last three years, and inquiries are up again this year," Reggie Webb, from UVA-Darden admissions and development, said in a PRNewswire report.
Webb continues to explain that veterans who enroll in MBA programs have the leadership and management skills necessary to succeed in these highly competitive programs. John Roder, director of admissions from Vanderbilt's MBA program, agrees.
"The leadership and cultural understanding demonstrated by these students impacts the classroom and enhances the learning environment for the entire student body," Roder said.
Service Members with MBAs Earn More
Once service members graduate with an MBA, they can demand an average annual salary of $109,720, according to MilitaryMBA.Net. That's more than what the average MBA graduate makes in their first year out of school -- $92,360.
How to Find Business Schools
You can use Military.com's Veterans Career Network to find other service members who may have the master's degree to get their input on a school that interests you.
For more information about educational opportunities or careers, visit Military.com.
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