Master in Business Administration - Not a degree

In this article, Christo Nel, Program Director of International MBA and Executive MBA at Nyenrode Business Universiteit in the Netherlands, explains the real value of doing an MBA.

An MBA qualification is not just a degree: it is so much more. It is a journey of personal development that enables the vast majority of participants in a good MBA programme to significantly enhance the fulfilment of their potential. This highly popular post-graduate programme has evolved into one of the most - if not the most - sought-after business qualifications throughout the world, and for many reasons.

The real value of an MBA

As with any other undertaking, there are high quality and sub-standard options. Fortunately, great progress has been made to assure the quality of MBA programmes. International accreditation bodies such as EFMD (EQUIS), AMBA and AACSB have become hallmarks of excellence.

The vast majority of traditional academic degrees rightfully focus on teaching participants the theory and application of a specific subject. The focus for such endeavours is on "What must you do to become a doctor, engineer, architect, etc.?"

A MBA goes beyond this. It does ensure that participants develop an astute understanding of the fundamentals of business and management, but good programmes are designed to enable individuals to uncover and reveal their personal authentic character as a manager and leader.

Why do an MBA?

MBA participants embark on their journey for a wide diversity of reasons. Some want to grow into senior managers and executives; others want to start their own businesses or are gearing up to take over family enterprises; some want to make a career shift. Participating with such diverse people further deepens personal growth.

When people complete this intensified journey of personal development, they feel the full benefit of a truly exceptional MBA, enabling them fulfil their authentic promise and the contributions they have to offer for the rest of their careers.

The continuous high pressure, the diversity of learning, the value of intensive and extensive engagement with peers and the practicality of an MBA create the deep foundations of development that last a lifetime.

No, an MBA is not a degree. It is part of the life-long process of individual development and places the vast majority of participants on the firm pathway to take charge of their career, exercise meaningful influence, drive ongoing innovation and contribute to the well-being of generations to come.

About Nyenrode Universiteit's MBA

The MBA programme at Nyenrode is designed to stimulate each individual’s development of his or her authentic capabilities of leadership-entrepreneurship-stewardship.

The structure has been developed to meet students' personal and professional aspirations in a way that matches best with their careers and your private lives, with choices to do full-time, part-time or modular study.

A previous head of the Centre for Leadership Studies at the Stellenbosch University School of Business, Christo Nel is now the Program Director of International MBA and Executive MBA at Nyenrode Business Universiteit in the Netherlands.

Do you want more than just a degree? Then contact Nyenrode for a personal consultation or to participate in class experience sessions:
› Tel: +31 346 291 291
› Email: mba@nyenrode.nl
› Visit: www.mbanotadegree.com