Do employers look at where you got your degree?
It might be best to first determine who the employer is. Oftentimes, top employers in industries like finance, banking, private equity, and marketing–industries closely aligned with your degree–will review where you received your education, looking for the best MBA programs.
Conversely, while some companies focus on the institution, others are most interested in the specifics of the degree and your area of specialization.
Do employers care about GPA?
Whether or not you are considering one of the top MBA programs, think of your school choice and your GPA as just two pieces of a puzzle. To complete that puzzle, you need multiple pieces:
School/education– While some companies look at your school, more important for others may be you having an MBA from an accredited institution like the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business.
GPA– A few top-tier companies that hire graduates from full-time MBA programs do evaluate and consider GPA when reviewing resumes. However, for most businesses, a credential from a great school will meet their hiring requirements. A great GPA certainly won't hurt your chances, so add it to your resume especially if its 3.5 or above.
Area of Expertise– When getting your degree, you will be drawn to a specialization. Maybe yours is finance, entrepreneurship, or business analytics. Employers will notice.
Experience– What groups will you be involved in during your studies? What kinds of hands-on projects will you tackle during your time in school? The closer they relate to your future aspirations, the better off you will be when it is time to get hired.
Network– There is no better time to expand your professional network than when you are studying for your MBA. Programs are filled with connections that are key to laying the groundwork for your business future.
Partnerships– Before deciding on a school, see if the institution has partnerships with any companies of interest, including the company you may be working for. Speak to your employer or share the Iowa MBA Employer Guidewith your supervisor to start the conversation.
Resume– First impressions matter. Make your case for employment by including on your resume everything you have done that directly connects you to the role you want. It is your chance to tell the hiring manager, “This is why you should hire me.”
Interview– Second impressions also matter. This is it: the moment where all the hard work pays off and you get to shine. If you've paid your dues and done your homework, they won’t be able to say no.
It's worth noting that a specific school is not a free pass to employment. Regardless of your school choice, you still need to put in the time and effort to land the role of your dreams.
