AI is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s our present reality, continuously shaping how industries and businesses operate.
It has become an integral part of nearly every field. Regardless of job title or industry, professionals everywhere use AI to simplify work and increase efficiency.
At the same time, entrepreneurship has become digital. Startups powered by AI and digital tools are taking over traditional industries, rapidly changing how businesses function and succeed.
This leaves many young professionals wondering if an MBA is still worth pursuing.
The answer is yes.
AI can automate tasks for you. But it has not reached a level where it can replace the most important aspect of business programs – People skills.
An MBA teaches leadership qualities, emotional intelligence, effective communication, and strategic thinking, which require human touch and cannot be replicated by AI.
So, let’s see why an MBA is still a worthwhile investment in 2025.
Why an MBA still matters
If you are a fresh graduate or a young early-career professional wanting to pursue an MBA but aren’t sure if it’s valuable in 2025 – 2026. Let me assure you, it still is.
Despite the prominence of AI in today’s workforce, an MBA, with over 250,000 students studying globally, remains one of the most reputed qualifications for individuals looking to build a career in business and management.
Here’s why:
- AI can surely automate tasks and analyse data, but it can’t replace human judgement and creativity when making complex decisions. Interpersonal and leadership skills like strategic thinking, negotiation, decision-making, and communication are irreplaceable qualities needed at the management level for guiding an organization. These are best taught in management programs.
- MBA programs also help budding entrepreneurs build successful businesses. As these programs include a thorough curriculum and in-depth projects on entrepreneurship, market dynamics, financial management, and operational efficiency, students learn essential skills to build a sustainable business.
- Another great advantage of pursuing an MBA is access to a wide network of alumni, qualified professors, reputed industry leaders, and peers, which last a lifetime.These professional connections can open doors to new work opportunities, partnerships, business funding, and mentorships, which may be difficult to replicate outside formal education.
- Lastly, universities have recognized the importance of AI and its demand in the workforce. This is why, most B-schools now incorporate AI in their curriculum, either by including AI-related coursework or they have introduced separate management programs in AI.
How MBA programs are adapting to the new age of AI and Entrepreneurship
B-schools have recognized AI’s growing influence on business education and employment. Today’s economy demands professionals who understand AI and can apply it strategically in business.
Hence, to keep pace, MBA programs are actively updating their curriculum and bringing new courses in AI and management.
A 2023 report by the Graduate Business Curriculum Roundtable noted that 74% of business schools have introduced AI in their curriculum, mostly Generative AI.
Universities are creating programs that not only help graduates learn AI technologies but also upskill in areas like data analytics, data visualization, design, machine learning, and generative AI, and apply them in live projects.
Top business schools have already done this. For example-
- Columbia Business School has introduced programs on business and generative AI.
- Stanford Graduate School of Business offers entrepreneurship modules that teach innovation through technology.
- The Wharton School of Business offers an “AI for business” course. They have also initiated the Wharton AI Research Fund for students to explore and innovate in the space of AI and Business.
Final Thoughts
In short, an MBA is still a reputed degree that will advance your management career and help you secure high-paying opportunities. However, to stay relevant in the age of AI and entrepreneurship, it’s equally important to understand and possess knowledge of AI tools and software.
Going forward, MBA graduates will need to combine traditional business strategy skills with AI to stay competitive. Those who do will find their career secure and in high demand.
Still unsure if an MBA is the right path for you? LilacBuds is here to guide you in every step, helping you secure the best MBA opportunities abroad.
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