Pursuing further studies is a strategic step for many professionals who want to deepen their knowledge, expand their network, and improve their specific skills in their field. By pursuing a postgraduate degree such as an MBA (Master of Business Administration) or MSc (Master of Science), individuals can unlock broader career opportunities and gain greater credibility in the eyes of the industry.
Pursuing a master’s degree has become a popular choice among professionals like Augustine Sally, a consultant, Bthari Ayeisha, owner of Wangsa Kemang cafe; Ardhi Ridwansyah from Markplus; Nadhira Mahdyani, and Adrian Ariatin, Chair of the SBM ITB Management Science Alumni Association (IA-SM ITB). They shared their experiences during the Entrepreneurial Marketing Forum Episode 11 webinar on Thursday, June 13, 2024.
For Augustine, having broader strategy execution and decision-making skills while working in a company is crucial. MBA education provides a deep understanding of the strategic aspects needed to run a business and make the right decisions.
Bthari started her career as a professional for four years before establishing the Wangsa Kemang cafe. She feels her knowledge in the business sphere is still limited and wants to broaden her horizons. Through the MBA, she hopes to deepen her knowledge as both a professional and an entrepreneur, enabling her to face business challenges better.
Adrian notes that compared to an MSc, an MBA has a different focus, emphasizing networking and practical knowledge relevant to the business world. Many of the theories and tools learned in an MBA are very useful in solving real problems.
In contrast, MSc programs, such as the Doctor of Science in Management, emphasize in-depth theory and structured academic steps. These two programs complement each other and provide different perspectives on understanding and solving business problems.
The MBA curriculum is very practical and involves many experienced practitioners. For example, when studying supply chains and financial control, the emphasis on aspects that influence business is applied directly to real cases, such as in the cafe business. Theories learned in an MBA are not just knowledge; they are also implemented in business.
One of the challenges in undertaking an MBA is dividing time between MBA tasks and main work and business. Additionally, an MBA helps open minds about various things, encouraging strategy-making and decision-making based more on data and analysis.
The MBA program has a regular and organized structure. Although expensive, a good program helps you learn quickly and efficiently. A practical and structured curriculum speeds learning and ensures a deep understanding of business concepts.
Moreover, focusing on the curriculum or theory and thinking broadly to add connections is important. The connections built during the MBA program can be a valuable asset in the future, helping in various aspects of business and career.
Thinking creatively to leverage these connections can open up new opportunities and help face various business challenges more effectively. Thus, a structured MBA program and creative use of connections significantly benefit career and business development.
The ITB MBA also offers a new major, Entrepreneurial Marketing. This new major sets high ethical standards to empower individuals to face modern business challenges. The program is designed to spark creative thinking and champion the entrepreneurial spirit, providing students with the skills and insight necessary to become innovative leaders. Additionally, the major encourages continuous improvement in all aspects of learning and business practices, ensuring graduates are always at the forefront of industry change.
In this program, SBM ITB emphasizes the importance of the ‘new genre’ concept of Entrepreneurial Marketing, which addresses the current business landscape with innovative mindsets, business approaches, and marketing execution. Hence, students will be ready to face and overcome challenges.
