Posted ByAmelia JoshGone are the days when only MBA graduates could work in Silicon Valley and other top business hubs. The Spectrum one internet era has expanded the spectrum of managerial learning and has also broken down it into specific blocks; these include social media, graphic design, global consumer behaviour, leadership, strategy, communication, accounting, soft skills, and many more.
Professionals with specific skill sets are in high demand these days, and specialised master’s degrees, certification courses and diploma courses in particular domains are the major alternatives available to earning an MBA today. The modules of alternative MBAs are built upon the need of today’s business world, and they can be tailored as and when a requirement changes. Workplace-ready curricula, mentoring from industry leaders, working on live projects, and skill drills are only some of the benefits offered by MBA alternative courses.
Specialised courses also increase your chances of landing a high-paying job. Moreover, these alternatives are cheaper than traditional MBAs, allow you to choose the duration of the course, and can be finished at your own pace.
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, companies prefer to employ specialised mini teams that include only employees with the relevant skills. With various work options now available, such as remote working and freelancing, there are increasing chances for employment in the Indian market. So, enrol yourself in an MBA alternative program and widen your horizon today.
Top MBA alternative courses
Here are eight of the most popular alternatives to earning an MBA degree:
1. Master of science in finance
An M.Sc. in Finance focuses on in-depth finance-related concepts from a global perspective. It includes strategic cost management, econometrics, financial management and risk, money and capital markets, global financial strategies, and more. This MBA alternative course is trending because of its high-profile career prospects. Leading global companies hire professionals with such financial skills as finance managers, financial service analysts, credit risk analysts, business analysts, personal financial advisors, and many other roles.
2. Master of science in data science
Upgrade your career by acquiring the foundational skill of the 21st century – data science; pair this with an appropriate specialisation such as deep learning, natural learning processing, and data engineering. An M.Sc. in Data Science syllabus covers professional and technical skills in big data analytics, machine learning, data visualisation, statistical analysis, and more.
This degree opens the door to hot jobs in the current era, such as the roles of data scientist, machine learning engineer and product analyst, and you can work in sectors varying from retail to healthcare.
3. Master of arts in communication
According to the Allbert Mehrabian communication model, articulating the most important information in a precise manner is the path to success. Strategic communication is the key to reaching out to stakeholders, whether internal or external. An MA in Communication can impart proficiency in advanced research, writing, and presentation skills, including the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication.
This MBA alternative course includes interesting modules such as public speaking, intercultural business communication, sales and negotiations, and design thinking. With an MA in Communication, you can work in roles such as market research analyst, journalist, political campaign manager, orator, social media manager, and public relations manager.
4. Certified global strategy consulting programme
Unlike traditional MBAs, consulting courses offer relevant case studies for management consultants. You can choose to learn niche consulting concepts such as internal analysis, long-term growth strategy, innovation strategy, and business and corporate strategy. After completing a consulting course, you can work in roles such as strategy consultant, IT consultant, outsourcing consultant, and HR consultant.
5. Certified public accountant
This designation is specific to qualified chartered accountants. Certified public accountants (CPAs) can specialise in taxation, book-keeping, auditing, forensic accounting and many more roles. The CPA exam is divided into four sections – Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and Business Environment and Concepts. After clearing the exam, you can either choose to work for an accounting firm (public organisation) or a corporate firm (private organisation).
6. Accelerated management programme
For individuals aspiring to take on leadership roles in companies, it is imperative to build cross-functional skills, enhance business expertise, develop a problem-solving approach, and adapt to rapid trade changes. Accelerated management programmes integrate short courses that deliver essential key tools and insights across leadership, data, product, and marketing departments.
In an accelerated management programme, professionals gain knowledge about complex domains such as leveraging social media networks and valuing companies. You can expect to achieve an upgraded skill set at the end of this course.
7. Project management professional certification
This certificate course is designed specifically for project managers and allows them to gain a competitive advantage through undertaking predictive, agile, and hybrid approaches. Closely-knitted modules such as building high-performance teams and designing timelines can enrich the core competencies of project managers and also increase their chances of earning a higher salary.
8. Soft skill development certification
Soft skill upgradation is widely seen as a priority for learning and development leaders. The shelf life of skill sets has diminished in the current rapidly transitioning world and adaptability is the core of progress. A soft skill development certification includes interpersonal skills training, public speaking training, and time management training.
Conclusion
An MBA alternative course could be the answer to today’s professional growth challenges. They can guide you to a high-growth career and help you advance efficiently towards the future. Contact the Harappa School of Leadership HSOL today to know more about such alternative courses and prepare to enter a world of fast-paced learning and exciting opportunities.