MBAs who can't find jobs
Elite MBA graduates struggling to find jobs are prompting questions about the real value of the degree in a tighter labor market. Commenters point to an oversupply of MBAs, sky‑high tuition, and unrealistic expectations—arguing that the credential mainly helps in consulting or advancing within an existing field, and is often most useful when employer-funded and paired with prior experience. Others stress that networking benefits and mid‑career pivots can justify the cost for some, but that an MBA is far from a guaranteed ticket to high-paying management roles, especially in tech.
Job market & oversupply
- Many comments note a tighter post‑boom job market; MBAs are not exempt from freezes and layoffs.
- Several argue there are simply too many MBAs relative to demand, especially for “professional manager” roles.
- Even top programs face placement issues; without a job at graduation the “value” of the degree drops sharply.
Value & purpose of MBAs
- Perceived core value: brand, signaling, structured recruiting, and especially networking/alumni power (e.g., rapid re‑placement via alumni offices).
- Technical content (accounting, finance, operations, etc.) is seen as valuable for those new to business, but largely redundant for people with prior business education or experience.
- Some see MBAs as a “career do‑over”: a structured way to pivot industries with on‑campus recruiting.
Timing, prerequisites & funding
- Strong consensus that professional school (MBA, law) works best after 3–5 years of work and with a concrete plan.
- Employer‑funded MBAs are viewed positively; self‑funded degrees without a plan are called a red flag due to debt and opportunity cost.
- Graduating into a downturn can leave degrees as “scarlet letters” if no relevant job is secured early.
Career switching & entrepreneurship
- MBAs are used as socially acceptable career breaks and pivots (e.g., into tech, data, finance).
- Some success stories: laid‑off MBAs building consulting or manufacturing businesses, later earning more than typical salaried roles.
- Others stress survivorship bias, luck, and the inability of most people to take such risks.
Critiques & skepticism
- Some view MBAs and business majors as creating a glut of middle managers who add little or extract value.
- Hostile takes claim MBAs often focus on metrics and presentations rather than substance.
- Others counter that management is a distinct, necessary skill set and that many firms now favor experts who grow into leadership rather than “MBA-only” managers.
What MBAs actually teach (per thread)
- Broad overview of the business value chain: marketing, sales, operations, logistics, HR, accounting, finance, strategy, IT.
- Emphasis (at least officially) on business ethics and “responsible leadership,” though several doubt this is what graduates actually practice.