Blog, MBA Blog: News & Information from SearchMBA.com

The healthcare MBA specialization marries a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system with a solid foundation of business basics in order to produce graduates with the knowledge, skills, and resources to revolutionize the healthcare system.

Running a hospital, clinic or practice requires a firm understanding of the unique business challenges associated with this sector - something ordinary MBA programs do not address. By participating in and healthcare MBA program, students will grasp how all of the pieces of the healthcare puzzle fit together, and how each decision affects the entire system. Healthcare MBA programs offer students the opportunity to tailor their course work to include topics such as Healthcare Finance and Accounting; Financial and Strategic Analysis; Applications to Healthcare Services; and Healthcare Entrepreneurship.

Many individuals may believe that business and healthcare are on opposite sides of the industry spectrum. However, hospitals and clinics rely on a dedicated and knowledgeable staff to manage the administrative side of healthcare. Without which, most healthcare systems would be unable to function. MBA programs in healthcare are beneficial to doctors or other healthcare staff looking to open their own practices or move into managerial positions, or for individuals who have general interest in improving the healthcare industry.

Learn more and MBA programs in healthcare or request more information to receive a list of programs tailored to your specific needs.

The tourism industry is an important local economic and revenue driver for many areas of the world. In fact, in some areas such as the Caribbean, the tourism industry accounts for 25% of all employment. Tourism is an ever-changing and highly competitive industry that requires managers who are equipped to handle the unique challenges in the area of tourism and hospitality. If you are interested in this industry, participating in an MBA program in Tourism and Hospitality Management will give you the skills necessary to successfully work in many roles within the area of tourism, restaurant development, entertainment, and hospitality. 

Specifically, MBA programs in Tourism and Hospitality Management offer students the opportunity to participate in an MBA program that combines general business management skills with niched, industry specific knowledge. Given the highly competitive nature of the tourism industry, an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management can give students a competitiive advantage and stand out from the sea of other applicants. 

Check out the many specialized MBA programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management here, or request more information to receive a list of schools offering MBA programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management. 

Chinese MBA Programs 

With China becoming an increasingly important country in global business, more and more multinational corporations are looking for experienced individuals who are knowledgable in Chinese business. These individuals enable the success of new ventures and expansions into China. Additionally, these individuals are prepared to not only handle business hurdles, but also cultural and organizational issues that may arise.

China currently has the world's the second largest economy and it is showing no signs of slowing down. This extreme growth coupled with multinational corporate expansion, makes participating in an Chinese MBA program a lucrative career move.

Many programs at the top Chinese universities have received international accreditation to ensure the best experience and education possible. Recently, Shanghai Jiao Tong University became the only Chinese MBA school to receive triple accreditation from AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB.

If you are interested in receiving an MBA degree from a Chinese university and jumpstart a successful business career in China or abroad, check out the top Chinese MBA programs here. 

Sporting events involve a huge amount of planning and a force of experienced professionals in order to provide fans with the best experience possible. The sporting industry has turned into a multi-billion dollar industry and it is growing every year. As such, this is a profitable and exciting area for business professionals and prospective MBA students. 

MBA programs that are specialized in sports management offer individuals the opportunity to build a strong foundation of knowledge in the field of business and the world of sports from a business standpoint. By bridging the knowledge between general business and the business of sports, an MBA in sports management develops the skills necessary to becoming a successful executive in the sport sector.

Employment opportunities within the sport entertainment industry are as numerous as they are varied. MBA programs in sports management will prepare individuals for the myriad of opportunities this exciting industry offers. Whether you are looking to fill a role in marketing, management, public relations, events planning, or the like, an MBA in sports management will equip students with the knowledge to fully comprehend the business of sports.

Working in the sporting industry is a highly sought after role and is becoming fiercely competitive. As such, MBA programs in sports management offer individuals the priceless opportunity to network with experienced sports managers and obtain an internship to gain real-world experience.

Learn more about MBA programs in sports management

An MBA program that concentrates on Emerging Markets and Asian Business are offering increased opportunities for students. This concentration is designed to develop the knowledge necessary with managing business operations overseas. Specifically, this specialization focuses on overcoming the obstacles when business in emerging markets, such as China, Brazil, India and Russia. These emerging markets are  increasingly important players in the global economy and by participating in an MBA specialized in dealing with these unique markets, will prime individuals for future careers managing strategic decisions regarding multi-national organizations.

It is clear that the political and economic influence these countries posess will only grow in the comming decades, which increases the value of an MBA in Emerging Markets. With the developed markets reaching a level of saturation, it is becoming increasingly important for businesses to expand into emerging markets. These markets offer incredible consumer buying power that is becoming not only difficult for busineses to ignore, but also unwise to ignore. 

The purpose of this MBA concentration is to equip future managers with the strategic thinking and decision making skills to facilitate successful entry into new overseas markets. By concentrating on understanding the factors that shape both the business and cultural environement, delegates will be prepared to face current and future challenges.

Find an MBA program that is specialized in Emerging Markets and Asian Business

Specialized MBA programs in a niche concentration have been growing in popularity in recent years. Students studying a specialized MBA program find that the course work is exciting, as individuals can find a concentration that better fits their interests and future career goals. For individuals who know which industry they are striving to work in, a specialized MBA is a great option.

Most programs offer students the core business administration courses within the first year of study, while allowing for a tailored study program during the second year. By combining knowledge of management, accounting, finance and marketing with industry specific knowledge, students are able to thrive in a niche industry. By choosing a concentration, participants are also able to increase their chances of employment in their chosen industry. What is most important is that programs be matched to both an individual's interests, personality and intended career trajectory.

Some of searchmba.com's most popular specializations include Sports Management, which prepares individuals for a successful career in the management of athletic enterprises and brands; Brand Management, which are designed to provide students with the knowledge to successfully build a brand and management the image of a product; and Asian Business, which explores the challenges associated with conducting business in emerging markets throughout Asia.

It is important to note that specialized programs are not right for everyone. Individuals who are less clear as to their future career goals or those who do not want to limit themselves to one industry, should consider a general management MBA.

Learn more about MBA specializations on searchmba.com!

Which Test is Right For Me?

Typically, the difference between the GMAT and the GRE lies in what program the applicant is considering. Under most circumstances, the GMAT is necessary for students who are applying to an MBA program or business school program of some sort, whereas most other graduate school programs except the GRE (MSc and MA, programs respectively).

Aside from those differences, other differences include the cost of examination, location of examination and test subjects. Below we have listed these differences in an easy to follow chart:

The GMAT tests verbal, math and analytical skills in three sections:

• analytical writing assessment
• quantitative
• verbal

The GRE tests verbal, math and analytical in four areas:

• verbal reasoning
• quantitative reasoning
• critical thinking
• analytical skills

Examination Fee:

• GMAT: $250 - Worldwide
• GRE: $160 in the US and US territories, $175 in China, Hong Kong, Korea and Taiwan, $170 in all other places

Many prospective students wonder which if one test easier or harder than the other. There is certainly not one test that is easier, but they are different in many ways. In terms of content, the GRE verbal section is much more focused on vocabulary, whereas the GMAT is more focused on grammar and logic. Individuals with a high aptitude in math, may consider the taking GMAT, as the math section has more questions and focuses on classic word problems. Both exams were designed for native English speakers, but foreign applicants might find the GMAT's verbal component easier than the GRE.

• If you have a strong vocabulary, the GRE will be better for you.
• If you find math is your strong suit, consider taking the GMAT.
• If your verbal and math skills are about equal, take the GRE.
• If English is not your native language, consider taking the GMAT.

Of course, the most important factor in deciding which exam to take is dependent on the requirements of a given program. As such, it is important to do research on your prospective program prior to registering for the GMAT or GRE. Keep in mind that you can contact many of the top schools right here on searchmba.com!

Sustainability is no longer just a buzz word. With environmental concerns growing and changing many industries, sustainability is becoming a necessary core value of many companies. To meet these needs, many MBA programs are ramping up their curricula and 'going green'.

Students participating in these specialized MBA programs gain a leading edge on the green industry and will be well equipped to deal with the forthcoming challenges of sustainability. These 'green' MBA programs enable students to be highly competitive in the global economy, where managers are expected to solve complex problems regarding climate change and the environment.

Enrollment in green MBA programs, such as the one offered at the University of North Carolina: Kenan-Flager business school, has nearly doubled in the last four years. These statistics show both the growing need and importance of MBA programs with a concentration in sustainability.

Additionally, many business schools are implementing green ideas around campuses to decrease their own carbon foot print. For example, Stanford incorporates a number of green ideas including recycling rain-water, construction debris, and cooking oil.

Green MBA programs aim to provide participants with the necessary skills to deal with the changing economy and the changing climate. Find a program today!

Antti Kauppila, the Progamme director of the Full-time MBA programme at Oulu Business School, Finland writes a guest post for the SearchMBA.com blog:

It is the agile and responsible that will conquer also in MBA training!

How is it possible for a nation of 5 million people to generate leading technologies and dozens of world class businesses?

If you study the stories behind companies like Nokia, Kone Elevators, UPM, Stora Enso, Wartsila, Vaisala, Polar Electro or Outotec you will find leading edge technologies, exceptional organizations and outstanding characters. What you will also find is something that is typical for the Nordic and especially for the Finnish companies and that is success that is based on technology-driven innovations.

The above mentioned Finnish success stories will bring prosperity to us for a long time still but it is at the same time easy to sense some change. There is a new business generation arising and that is something that already has fostered products and technologies like Max Payne, Angry Birds or… Linux and 4G or LTE, if you will. This success story is yet to be written but success is again based on the best educational system of the world and leading edge technologies!

This is what we need to see. There are so many possibilities that are evident in the performance and behavior of the new generation of students. The management training programs world-wide have educated graduates for Wall Street and London City finance corporations for decades and look where it has brought us! Financial crisis, hee-haaw! It is time to see and experience new ways to look at the world.

Expand your views on the world. See it from the North. Shake up your paradigms. Choose the best educational system in the world and doing so enjoy safety, security, clean air and beauty of the North.

> Have a look at our International Full-time MBA programme on Searchmba.com.

Antti Kauppila

Progamme director, Full-time MBA programme
Martti Ahtisaari Institute of Global Business and Economics

Oulu Business School

University of Oulu

Finland