"After MBA, what can I do?" We often get this question, and the answer isn't one-size-fits-all.
Whether you want to learn more about finance, explore data science, or improve your leadership skills, choosing which course is best after MBA is significant for your future.
When considering the best courses after MBA, you should consider your career goals and what is in demand in the industry.
This blog post will not just give you options on what to study after MBA but also take you through the high-paying jobs you can get after those courses.
Wondering whether this would be an appropriate step for you? Read ahead to find out.
15 Top Courses After MBA
With various options available, from advanced certifications to doctoral programs, selecting the right course depends on your career goals, interests, and the industry you wish to excel in.
Explore our top 15 picks!
1. Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) from IIMs
The Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) is a doctoral-level program offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It is designed for individuals seeking advanced research and academic careers in management. The FPM typically takes 4 to 5 years to complete and focuses on advanced research and educational development.
Benefits of FPM
- High recognition and respect in academic and corporate circles.
- Opportunities to publish research in prestigious journals.
- Pathway to becoming professors, researchers, and consultants.
- Network with top-tier academicians and professionals.
Here is a table of top job roles and average salaries after completing FPM.
2. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate on practical business and managerial issues.
This 3 to 6-year program is ideal for experienced professionals, senior executives, and entrepreneurs who wish to enhance their leadership skills and strategic thinking.
Benefits of DBA
- Enhances leadership and strategic management skills.
- Prepares you for high-level executive roles.
- Offers opportunities for consultancy and entrepreneurship.
- Provides exposure to global business practices and trends.
- Provides exposure to global business practices and trends.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing DBA
3. Financial Risk Management (FRM)
This is a globally recognised, 1-2 year course for risk management professionals. It focuses on identifying, evaluating, and mitigating financial risks.
Key topics covered in this 1 to 2-year course include credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, and regulatory compliance.
Benefits of FRM
- In-demand certification in the finance industry.
- Prepares you for specialised roles in risk management.
- Enhances your ability to assess and mitigate financial risks.
- Recognised by top financial institutions worldwide.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing FRM.
4. ISB’s Certificate Programme in Business Analytics (CBA)
The Certificate Programme in Business Analytics (CBA) offered by the Indian School of Business (ISB) equips professionals with the skills and knowledge required to excel in business analytics.
This 1-year program covers data analysis, statistical methods, and predictive modelling, preparing you for data-driven decision-making roles.
Benefits of CBA
- Enhances analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Prepares you for high-demand roles in business analytics.
- Provides hands-on experience with data analysis tools and techniques.
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and professionals.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing CBA
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5. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
If you like Finance and want to grow your career further in finance after an MBA, the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program is the answer you are looking for.
This 2 to 4-year course is a globally recognised professional credential offered by the CFA Institute and is divided into three levels.
Benefits of CFA Certification
- High recognition in the finance industry.
- Prepares you for various roles in investment management and financial analysis.
- Enhances your understanding of global financial markets and ethical practices.
- Opens up opportunities in investment banking, portfolio management, and equity research.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing CFA
6. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), usually takes 6 months to 2 years to complete.
It is designed for professionals in IT auditing, control, and security. The CISA certification validates your ability to assess, control, and monitor an organisation's information technology and business systems.
Benefits of CISA
- High demand in IT auditing and cybersecurity roles.
- Enhances your credibility in managing IT controls and security.
- Prepares you for roles in IT governance, risk management, and compliance.
- Recognised globally by leading organisations.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing CISA
7. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)
The Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) is a 1-year course offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
It focuses on risk management and assurance, helping professionals demonstrate their ability to manage and assess key business processes.
Benefits of CRMA
- Proves your expertise in risk management and governance.
- Enhances your ability to ensure business process integrity.
- Prepares you for roles in risk assurance and compliance.
- Recognised by top employers in various industries.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing CRMA
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8. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a 1-year program. It is a global certification for professionals interested in supply chain management.
It covers topics such as production planning, inventory management, and supply chain optimisation. If inventory management intrigues you, read ahead and learn the benefits of this course.
Benefits of CPIM
- Enhances your knowledge in production and inventory management.
- Prepares you for roles in supply chain and operations management.
- Recognised by leading companies worldwide.
- Improves your ability to manage and optimise business processes.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing CPIM
9. Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA)
The Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA), a 1-year certification, focuses on programming languages and software applications. It enhances your technical skills and prepares you for various IT roles. The program covers Java, C++, MS Office, Web Design, and more topics.
Benefits of PGDCA
- Prepares you for IT roles in various industries.
- Enhances your technical and programming skills.
- Provides hands-on experience with software applications.
- Opens up opportunities in software development and IT management.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing PGDCA
10. Marketing Management Professional Course (MMPC)
The Marketing Management Professional Course (MMPC) is a 1-year certification program. This course will help you develop valuable strategic marketing skills for any organisation. It covers market analysis, consumer behaviour, digital marketing, and strategic planning.
Benefits of MMPC
- Enhances your marketing and strategic thinking skills.
- Prepares you for various marketing roles in different industries.
- Provides knowledge of the latest marketing trends and techniques.
- Opens up high-paying opportunities in brand management, market research, and digital marketing.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing MMPC
11. Operations Management (OM)
Operations management, a 6-month to one-year certification, focuses on improving company sustainability by managing operations.
This course prepares you to analyse and optimise operational processes within an organisation, making them more efficient and effective.
Benefits of OM
- Enhances your operational skills and knowledge.
- Prepares you for managerial roles in operations and supply chain management.
- It helps you understand and improve business processes.
- Opens up opportunities in various industries.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing OM Certification
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12. Data Science (DS)
Data science, a 6-month to 2-year course, involves analysing customer behaviour and improving products.
It covers various aspects of data analysis, machine learning, and big data technologies, preparing you for roles in data-driven decision-making.
Benefits of DS
- High demand in the digital age.
- Enhances your analytical and technical skills.
- Prepares you for data analysis, business intelligence, and data engineering roles.
- Opens up opportunities in IT, finance, healthcare, and more.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing DS Course
13. Executive MBA (EMBA)
An Executive MBA (EMBA) is a 1-year MBA program designed for working professionals at the mid-senior level. It focuses on enhancing leadership and strategic management skills, enabling you to take your career to the next level.
Benefits of EMBA
- Enhances leadership and strategic thinking skills.
- Connects you with industry leaders and professionals.
- Provides exposure to advanced business practices and trends.
- Prepares you for senior management and executive roles.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing EMBA
14. PhD in Management
A PhD in management, a 3 to 5-year course, offers a deeper perspective on management, ideal for those in consulting or academia. It involves advanced research in various management disciplines, preparing you for academic and high-level consultancy roles.
Benefits of a PhD in Management
- High recognition in academia and consulting.
- Prepares you for research and teaching roles in prestigious institutions.
- Enhances your analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Opens up opportunities in high-level consultancy and policy analysis.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing Ph.D in Management
15. Digital Marketing in Management (DM)
A digital marketing course of three months to one year is essential for those with an MBA in marketing to enhance their digital skills. It covers various aspects of digital marketing, including SEO, SEM, social media marketing, and content marketing, preparing you for roles in online marketing.
Benefits of DM
- High demand in the digital age.
- Enhances your knowledge of digital marketing strategies.
- Prepares you for roles in online marketing and brand management.
- It opens up opportunities to start your own business.
Job Roles and Average Salaries After Completing Digital Marketing Course
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Importance of Post-MBA Courses
In recent years, the value of an MBA degree has been diluted, partly due to the proliferation of low-quality programs that do not provide the necessary skills or practical experience. Now that we have read about multiple options for post MBA courses, lets know why post MBA courses are necessary:
- Employers now scrutinise not just the MBA degree but also the reputation of the institution and curriculum relevance.
- Post-MBA courses and certifications are increasingly important for standing out in the competitive job market.
- Specialised certifications like CFA® and FRM are highly valued and can open doors to global career opportunities.
- These additional credentials enhance expertise and make candidates more attractive to employers in India and internationally.
Who Should Consider Post-MBA Courses?
Yes, we know why the post MBA courses are necessary, we also have an insight on multiple options for post MBA courses, let’s now understand who can benefit from these courses.
Below, we explore the designation-wise benefits of post-MBA courses, highlighting how they can cater to the diverse needs of professionals across various industries.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Course
To make an informed choice, it's important to consider several key factors, including your personal interests, the time you can commit, financial investment, and the reputation of the institution. Note the points given below:
- Pick a course that matches what you enjoy and aligns with your future career plans.
- Think about how much time you can commit and whether the course fits into your schedule.
- Check the overall cost, including tuition, materials, and exam fees, to make sure it fits your budget.
- Look into the institution's reputation and ensure the course is accredited by the right industry bodies.
Designation-Wise Benefits of Post-MBA Courses
Post-MBA courses provide specialised knowledge, practical skills, and the latest industry insights, making them highly valuable for career advancement. Below is a table outlining the benefits of post-MBA courses for different professional designations.
Rightly choosing which course is best after MBA can significantly impact your career trajectory. Thus, you need to have a careful analysis of this question.
That is not all. You will also need funding to pay for the course you choose. And if it’s collateral-free loans you are looking for, Propelld is the right companion for you.
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