A Veteran’s Guide to Pursuing an MBA

If you are a veteran thinking about pursuing an MBA, it is important to consider a few factors before choosing the right school, especially one that is veteran friendly. Schools that recognize and have programs in place for veterans will help you to succeed and excel in your program. In turn, your MBA experience will be successful. 

U.S. Veterans Magazine highlights a few things veterans should look for in an MBA program to help ensure that you accomplish your goals and also to help you have a good experience while pursuing higher education.

A veterans’ association chapter on campus

An association dedicated to the veteran experience on campus is instrumental in helping you have a good experience at school. A veterans association chapter helps you meet and get connected to other veterans, something that is hard for transitioning military to find after the service. A veterans’ association chapter is also an advocate for you, working to create a better experience for veterans while in the MBA program.

An online MBA program

An MBA program that can be done online is a great asset, allowing for flexibility to veterans struggling with PTSD, those who are working while obtaining a degree, and those who need a program that can work around a busy schedule. More and more colleges and universities are recognizing this need. U.S. News saw an increase of 50 percent of online programs, from 180 programs in 2017 to nearly 270 online MBA programs in 2018. Most online MBA programs also include the same curriculum that is offered on campus.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Check to see if the school you are interested in attending is part of the Yellow Ribbon Program. This program, sponsored by the Veterans Administration, was created for veterans to help with the cost of attending school. Under the program, a participating school declares a set amount that they will waive in tuition as well as how many students they will accept in the program each year, degrees covered, and the maximum contribution per student. In turn, the Veterans Administration agrees to pay an equal contributed amount. There are certain eligibility requirements for veterans to qualify for the program. A school’s participation shows that they are very military friendly, and willing to accept veterans into an MBA program at their institution. 

The cost-effectiveness of an MBA

Of course, if you are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill or the Yellow Ribbon program mentioned above,  cost will not be the biggest factor in deciding on a particular MBA program. However, it is worth pondering whether or not the school is worth the cost. Consider an MBA option that will allow you to attain the best education in order to reach your career goals.

School Accreditation

This is perhaps one of the most important steps in pursuing an MBA, as it is important to verify that the school you are interested in attending is accredited in the career field that you wish to occupy. 

No matter the MBA program you choose, it is never too early to begin working with Orion. Prior to graduation, we will work with you to build your resume, provide you with career counseling and transition assistance, prepare you for interviews, and arrange interviews for positions that are a match with your background, qualifications and desires. Register with Orion and learn more about post-military careers for student veterans.

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