Check out this five-part series detailing each of the five signs that you are ready for an MBA with stories from University of Utah David Eccles School of Business MBA students/alumni. Read about the first, second, fourth and fifth signs.

An MBA can be an important investment in your future, as it shows employers that you are dedicated and determined, your skills are refined and you are ready to take on leadership responsibilities. However, there are many factors to keep in mind before deciding to pursue an MBA, such as tuition costs and personal obligations. For many prospective students, it is difficult to know the best time to apply. In order to submit a competitive application and be successful in an MBA program, you need to pursue your degree at the right time.

3. The benefits outweigh the costs

An MBA is an investment in your future, but it does not come without costs. Along with being a financial investment, an MBA requires time away from work, family, and friends, and it is not for everyone. However, there are significant benefits to pursuing an MBA, and those long-term benefits can outweigh the initial investment.

The cost of the program was a significant factor Barker evaluated when he looked at pursuing an MBA, and he put a lot of thought into his obligations and the benefits of the program before enrolling.

“Many people consider the cost,” said Brian Barker, a graduate of the University of Utah’s MBA Online program. “They are concerned with the investment upfront and the gains long term. For me, that and how the cost of getting my MBA would affect my family was definitely a factor.”

Research on the return on investment of obtaining an MBA was something that drove Barker to pursue the program, because of how it would bring long-term benefits to him, his work, and his family.

“One of the decisions that helped me was knowing the benefits,” said Barker. “There’s plenty of research that reflects the year-to-year gains and opportunities presented. I thought that the business school, and the MBA Online program in particular, would maximize my returns.”

In order to be successful in an MBA program, do your research, talk with programs that fit your life — whether they be full-time, online, evening, or weekend format — and make plans with your family and work to ensure you can maintain your obligations.

The University of Utah’s Full-time, Professional, Executive and Online MBA programs are now accepting applications for Fall 2018. Want to determine if the timing is right for you to earn your MBA? Our advisors are ready to help you. Visit us at MBA.Utah.edu to request more information, or contact us at 801-581-5577 or MBA@Utah.edu.