Things to consider before applying to business school

Are you wondering what the next step is towards your career goals? I recommend thinking about a career-focused business masters. Maybe you’re looking to expand on the knowledge gained during university, or you’re planning to switch to a field unrelated to your degree. A masters can help you develop the highly sought-after skills and expertise recruiters look for. Another key aspect of business school is the exposure to like-minded professionals—as we know, a diverse network is key to a successful career!

Look into the faculty and the professional backgrounds they bring into the classroom as this will play a big part in your experience and the perspective you develop while learning from them.

What resources can the school provide to assist you in achieving your career goals? This will be a combination of academics, community and the formal career resources provided by the school. Perhaps you’re in need of advice or looking to brush up on your assessment centre skills. Also consider the school’s expertise—is it well-rounded or do its strengths lie in supporting students targeting a specific sector?

Research the students and alumni that make up the school’s community. You’re not only investing in the programme, but the lifelong connection to the people you share the school’s brand with.

Rankings aren’t everything, but they do give some useful insights into the strengths of the school, as well as how strong the brand is. This can often be a factor when recruiting for internships and graduate roles. Think about how well-regarded the school is in different regions, too. Some schools have a very domestic focus, both academically and in terms of reputation, while others have a strong brand globally. Always think long term: for example, you might plan to work in London after graduating, but this could change after a few years. Maybe you’ll want to relocate and explore a different market!

In conclusion, choosing the right business school is a significant step toward achieving your career goals. It's important to evaluate not only the academic strength of the programme but also the breadth of career support, the community of students and alumni, and the school's overall reputation. These factors together will shape your learning experience and determine the value of your degree over time. By taking a holistic approach to your decision, you can ensure that you’re making an investment that will benefit your career both immediately and in the years to come.