With so many different schools and programs available, it can be hard to know where to start. The sheer number of possible pathways can make the process feel like navigating a maze.
To make the right choice, you need to ask yourself key questions that will help you determine whether a program aligns with your goals, interests, and career plans. That way, you’ll be more likely to get the return on investment you’re looking for.
So, if you've recently found yourself asking: 'Which degree should I study?' Here are eight questions to help you decide.
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Why is it important to ask questions?
Before we unpack the types of questions you should be asking when selecting the right business program, it’s worth understanding why asking questions matters in the first place.
Asking questions—both to yourself and to the schools you’re considering—is a fundamental part of the selection process. It’s a valuable exercise that helps you gain a deeper understanding of the programs that are out there, your own interests, career goals, and what each business school provides.
The more informed your decision, the greater the likelihood that it will lead to a satisfying and successful academic and career journey.
Which degree should I study? 8 key questions
1. Do I want a generalist or specialist degree?
You need to think about whether you want a broad foundation like an MBA or if you'd prefer to build deep expertise in a specific area—such as finance, sustainability, or entrepreneurship.
If you're looking to enter a specialist industry that requires technical knowledge, a specialized master’s that delves deep into a particular function or knowledge area may be the way to go.
Meanwhile, if your goal is to gain more well-rounded business acumen, then an MBA might be the answer. MBAs are designed to provide core business principles while developing essential leadership and management skills.
Whichever path you choose, make sure it’s your decision and not influenced by what those around you are doing.
2. What are the program’s global opportunities like?
Understanding how business is done across different countries is a major advantage in today’s globalized economy.
So, consider what international campuses, exchange programs, or global study opportunities the schools you’re looking at offer.
Also, look at cohort diversity. A classroom filled with students from different backgrounds and regions helps you gain new perspectives—learning from one another and building a global mindset in the process. For example, at INSEAD, 97% of the MBA Class is made up of international students, creating a diverse and enriching learning experience.
3. How practical is the program?
Real-world experience during business school enhances learning by bridging the gap between theory and practice. It can also help you build your professional network—leading to genuine connections and tangible opportunities after graduation.
It’s worth investigating how much industry immersion each course offers. Look for elements such as internships, consulting projects, and live business cases.
4. What is the school’s career placement record?
One of the main goals every business school student has in mind is to boost their employability and land a role that aligns with their career goals soon after graduation.
With that in mind, check post-graduation employment rates, the industries graduates enter, and average salaries they earn—these can all help you narrow down your list of potential schools. You can usually find this information in a school’s employment report, often available on their website. For example, HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management’s 2025 report highlights an 89% employment rate within three months of graduation and an average salary of over €66,100 ($77,800), without bonuses.
It’s also worth reviewing the school’s career services. Do they offer personalized support, CV reviews, mock interviews, and networking opportunities?
And, if entrepreneurship is your goal, explore how many students from previous cohorts started their own businesses—and what kind of support (e.g. mentoring, funding, startup hubs) the school offers for budding entrepreneurs.
5. What kind of network will you be joining?
Explore the alumni communities that your chosen schools have to offer. An engaged alumni network can be a valuable resource for business school students, providing career insights, networking opportunities, and connections to potential employers.
Also, look into the types of benefits and support alumni receive, as you’ll likely be part of that community one day. For instance, at London Business School, alumni get exclusive access to dedicated alumni centres, as well as a 25% discount on all Executive Education programs and LBS online offerings.
6. Does the program align with my lifestyle and timeline?
When choosing the right business program for you, consider whether full-time, part-time, online, or hybrid options suit your current lifestyle. This is particularly important, if you’re looking to balance professional or personal responsibilities alongside your studies.
7. Where is the program based, and how does this impact my experience?
Location can have a big impact on your business school experience. Think about it in terms of industry access, cost of living, cultural fit, and post-study job markets.
For example, if you’re hoping to enter the tech industry, somewhere like Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, could be a great match. Located in the heart of the Bay Area and Silicon Valley—home to over 2,000 tech companies—Berkeley Haas offers excellent access to opportunities in the tech sector.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a culture that prioritizes mental well-being, the Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore) might appeal to you. At IIM Indore, mindfulness is actively integrated into the curriculum.
8. What does the school value, and does that match what I’m looking for?
Explore the school’s mission, teaching style, community atmosphere, and diversity efforts to see if they align with your own values and goals.
An easy way to identify a school’s values is by reviewing its mission statement. For example, the University of Edinburgh Business School states: “Together with our communities, we create and share knowledge through research and education to make meaningful change for people, organizations, and the environment.”
So, if you’re someone who wants to use business as a force for environmental good, this school might be one to consider.
By asking these questions, you will gain comprehensive insights into the schools you are considering, empowering you to make the choice that best fits your aspirations and goals.
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