According to GMAC’s 2023 Recruiters Survey, global employers look to hire MBA graduates the most (92%) compared to candidates with other graduate degrees. Therefore, as the MBA degree continues to show value globally, so does the demand for international enrollment in MBA degree programs.
Take a look at the following regional profile statistics:
Strong hiring projections urge professionals to enroll in an MBA program to better equip themselves with top business and management skills. And for those in countries outside of the United States, they’re turning to accredited online international MBA programs to achieve their education goals.
Although there was an approximate 5% global decrease in total MBA program applications in 2023, GMAC reports moderately selective and flexible MBA programs were more likely to report growth in 2023 applications. These flexible programs include online, weekend, hybrid, and evening.
University leaders must be aware of this growth potential, the benefits of offering international MBA degrees to students, and key considerations for expanding enrollment.
Benefits of Offering International MBA Degrees
Pursuing an MBA remains a popular choice for international students to broaden their career prospects and gain a global perspective. With the growth of online MBA programs, students have more options than ever before. Universities that expand their international enrollment benefit from a boost in reputation, partnership opportunities, and more diversity.
Enhanced reputation
The presence of a significant number of international students illustrates a university’s global reputation and appeal. When your higher education institution can attract students from around the world this means your programs boast academic excellence. It also shows your university is capable of adapting to meet international needs and provides services such as accommodations, English support, tuition help, a welcoming environment and more.
Partnership opportunities
An increase in international MBA students may help U.S. universities team up with other higher education institutions across the globe. When universities from different countries collaborate, doors open for staff, professors, and students. Partnerships may involve a variety of activities, such as:
- Joint research initiatives
- Joint teaching initiatives
- Formalized faculty exchanges
- Formalized student exchanges
The more partnerships formed, the higher enrollment opportunities for all institutions involved.
Increased diversity
A major benefit of offering international MBA programs is the contribution diverse populations bring to the academic environment. Diversity enriches the learning experience for all students and creates a more vibrant campus community. Having different perspectives of students from around the world enhances the MBA program and the education of participants.
Institutions and students benefit from international MBA degree programs, but before jumping into these offerings, there are factors university leaders should consider.
Key Considerations For Expanding International Enrollment
For your international MBA programs to thrive, they must target the right audiences, meet the specific needs of students, and be flexible.
Research target markets
Similar to other degree programs, you’ll need to research target markets before choosing to expand international enrollment to certain regions. Research shows that the regions of India, the Middle East, and North Africa are promising in terms of target markets for MBA programs due to the growing demand and economy.
For example, India’s 2020 National Education Policy states a lofty goal to increase its higher education enrollment population from 26.3% in 2018 to 50% by 2035. There is a growing demand for higher education programs, and your university may help by expanding MBA degree programs to India.
Once you know which regions work best for forming an academic partnership, then you can further research the education interests and needs of potential students.
Identify a need
The skills gap is taking its toll on employers and employees alike. According to AACSB, schools are even changing their MBA programs to address student requirements and marketplace trends. For example, some institutions have added specializations in cybersecurity, analytics, or entrepreneurship to their MBA programs. Universities that can identify the educational and real-world needs of potential international students and provide an MBA program to fit those needs will be most successful.
Provide flexible options
The online MBA degree program is the most flexible option for international students who can’t leave the responsibilities and life of their home country to gain a business graduate education. As online MBA programs continue to rise for international students, universities must figure out how to stand out from the competition. Think of ways to reach your target market, how you’ll show clear benefits of your MBA programs, and what kind of digital campaigns you’ll use to attract international students.
Keeping all of these things in mind will help you through the journey of expanding international MBA programs to different countries and regions. You may also partner with an expert in online degree programs, marketing, and university partnerships —Emerge Education.
Next Steps to Expand MBA Enrollment Internationally
International recruitment is mutually beneficial for all parties involved. Students within MBA programs make connections worldwide and gain a broader perspective of the world. Furthermore, it increases the pool of talented and qualified professionals in the workforce.
If you need help with your institution’s education offerings, then now is the time to reach out to an expert at Emerge Education. We can help your higher education institution provide online MBA programs to international students.
Visit our higher education page for more information!
