MBA programs are comprehensive, providing a general education in various facets of business, from finance and marketing to operations and strategy. However, if a particular area of business influences your decision to get an MBA, you may be curious about MBA concentrations.
An MBA concentration is a specialized focus within an MBA program, allowing you to dive deeper into a specific field of study. Does that mean you need to choose a concentration to get the most out of your business education? Not necessarily. But understanding them could help you pursue your specific goals.
To help you determine whether an MBA concentration is the right choice for you, we've put together this guide. Here’s what you’ll learn:
When MBA concentrations actually matter for your career prospects
An overview of some of the most common and in-demand concentrations
Insights on the best MBA concentration
How to choose the right concentration for you
Let’s dive in.
What are MBA concentrations?
MBA concentrations are specialized areas of study within a Master of Business Administration program. In the same way that often you can focus with an undergraduate major—for example, focusing on comparative politics within a political science degree—MBA concentrations let you dive deeper into specific aspects of business, tailoring your education to match your interests and career goals.
Do MBA concentrations matter?
They can to some degree, but it depends: MBA concentrations can be pivotal in your career journey, but their significance ultimately depends on your goals and circumstances, since the business landscape is diverse, and employers often value a combination of general business knowledge and practical skills. Your overall MBA education equips you with a broad skill set, making you adaptable and capable of taking on diverse roles.
Obtaining an MBA without a concentration won’t significantly limit your job prospects. But if your goal is to enter a niche industry or pursue specialized roles that demand in-depth expertise an MBA concentration might be beneficial. So if you have one or a few niche industries or roles in mind, see the guidance below for a breakdown as to what concentrations can set you up well for what roles.
List of MBA concentrations
There isn't a fixed list or number of MBA concentrations, as business schools often design their own programs to meet the evolving needs of the corporate world.
However, we can give you some examples. Here are 27 MBA concentrations currently offered by either The Wharton School or the UChicago Booth Business School, two of the prestigious M7 business schools, and the skills they emphasize and roles that these specializations can help to open a path toward.
Accounting
A concentration in Accounting helps students specialize in advanced financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. Students gain the specialized skills needed to navigate complex financial landscapes through coursework emphasizing regulatory frameworks and ethical practices.
Students with this concentration become top candidates for roles such as certified public accountant (CPA), financial analyst, or auditor.
Analytic Finance
Analytic Finance focuses on quantitative methods for advanced techniques in risk management, portfolio optimization, and financial modeling. With a strong emphasis on data-driven strategies, students develop the skills necessary to thrive in dynamic finance teams.
This concentration equips graduates for roles as quantitative analysts, risk managers, or financial consultants.
Behavioral Science
The Behavioral Science concentration explores the intersection of psychology and business, enhancing students' understanding of consumer behavior, decision-making, and organizational dynamics. Specialized skills include applying behavioral insights to shape marketing strategies and cultivating a positive corporate culture.
Graduates tend to take this focus in preparation for a path in marketing, organizational development, or management consulting roles.
Business Analytics
Business Analytics equips students with data analysis, machine learning, and predictive modeling skills. The concentration emphasizes extracting actionable insights from large datasets, promoting a data-driven mindset.
Students with this concentration become top candidates for roles such as data scientist, business intelligence analyst, or strategy consultant.
Business Economics and Public Policy
The Business Economics and Public Policy concentration explores the intersection of business strategy, government policies, and societal impact. Specialized skills include assessing economic trends, understanding regulatory landscapes, and navigating the intersection of business and public policy to drive strategic decision-making.
Graduates are well-equipped for roles in government affairs, public policy consulting, or corporate strategy.
Business, Energy, Environment and Sustainability
This concentration focuses on the dynamic relationship between business and environmental sustainability. Students gain insights into energy markets, sustainable business practices, and environmental policy.
Graduates emerge prepared for environmental consulting, corporate sustainability management, or energy policy analysis roles.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion concentration addresses the crucial role of building and maintaining diverse and inclusive workplaces. Students learn strategies for promoting equity, driving cultural change, and enhancing organizational inclusivity.
This concentration equips graduates for roles in diversity management, human resources, or organizational development.
Econometrics and Statistics
Econometrics and Statistics focus on advanced quantitative methods for data analysis in business decision-making. Students gain proficiency in statistical modeling, data interpretation, and using quantitative methods to inform strategic business decisions.
Graduates can specialize in roles as data analysts, quantitative researchers, or market analysts.
Economics
The Economics concentration provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application to business strategy. Specialized skills include financial modeling, market analysis, and leveraging economic insights for strategic decision-making.
Graduates are well-suited for economic consulting, market research, or financial analysis roles.
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
The Entrepreneurship & Innovation concentration goes beyond traditional business models, nurturing skills in creativity, risk-taking, strategic thinking, resource allocation, and venture development—all essential for thriving in entrepreneurship.
Graduates emerge ready to pioneer their own startups or drive innovation within established organizations.
Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors For Business
The Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors concentration equips students to navigate the complex intersection of business and societal impact. Students develop skills in sustainable business practices, ethical decision-making, and corporate responsibility.
Graduates are well-positioned for roles shaping corporate sustainability strategies, advising on ethical practices, or leading social impact initiatives.
Finance
In the Finance concentration, students gain a comprehensive education in financial management strategies, such as investment analysis, risk management, financial modeling, valuation techniques, and strategic financial decision-making.
This concentration equips graduates for roles ranging from financial analysts to investment bankers.
General Management
General Management takes a holistic approach, offering a well-rounded curriculum for aspiring business leaders. This concentration hones skills in organizational development, strategic planning, and effective communication, creating leaders ready to tackle the multifaceted challenges of general management.
Graduates emerge ready to take on versatile roles in executive management or as leaders driving organizational growth.
Health Care Management
In the Health Care Management concentration, students explore the unique intersection of business and healthcare. Specialized skills include understanding healthcare regulations, optimizing operational efficiency, and navigating the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery.
This concentration prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare administration, strategic planning, and healthcare consulting.
International Business
The International Business concentration teaches students the intricacies of global commerce, cultivating skills essential for navigating diverse cultural landscapes and international markets. Students learn the art of cross-border negotiations, global strategy formulation, and effective international market entry.
Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as international business consultants, global marketing managers, or strategic planners for multinational corporations.
Management Consulting
In the Management Consulting concentration, students gain skills in data analysis, client communication, and project management. The program emphasizes problem-solving methodologies, effective communication, and a comprehensive understanding of diverse business environments.
Graduates emerge ready for roles as management consultants, advising organizations on operational efficiency, strategic planning, and change management.
Marketing
A Marketing concentration develops skills in creative thinking, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making, providing a robust foundation for success in the field of marketing.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as marketing managers, brand strategists, or product development leaders.
Marketing and Operations
Marketing and Operations combine two critical business functions, offering students a comprehensive skill set for roles that bridge strategic marketing and efficient operations. Students learn process optimization, supply chain management, and aligning marketing initiatives with operational excellence,
Graduates will be well-prepared for roles as operations managers, supply chain analysts, or marketing operations directors.
Multinational Management
The Multinational Management concentration immerses students in the complexities of leading and operating across borders. Students acquire skills in navigating diverse regulatory environments, understanding global markets, and implementing effective strategies for success in multinational management.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles such as global operations managers, international business development leaders, or executives steering multinational corporations.
Operations Management
Operations Management is a focused exploration into the intricacies of efficient business operations. Students gain process optimization, supply chain management, and quality control skills.
Graduates will tend toward roles such as operations managers, supply chain analysts, or logistics directors.
Operations, Information, and Decisions
The Operations, Information, and Decisions concentration integrates operations management with information technology, offering a holistic approach to business efficiency. Students develop skills in data analytics, leveraging data for decision-making, managing information systems, and aligning technology solutions with operational objectives.
Graduates are well-suited for roles as business analysts, IT project managers, or operations and technology consultants.
Organizational Effectiveness
Organizational Effectiveness focuses on enhancing the efficiency and performance of organizations. The concentration emphasizes fostering a positive corporate culture and optimizing team dynamics for improved organizational effectiveness.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as organizational development consultants, change management specialists, or human resources directors.
Quantitative Finance
Quantitative Finance emphasizes quantitative research methods, financial modeling proficiency, and strategic decision-making in dynamic financial markets, providing graduates with a solid foundation to navigate the quantitative aspects of finance.
Graduates often seek roles as quantitative analysts, risk managers, or financial modelers.
Real Estate
A Real Estate concentration immerses students in the intricacies of property development, investment, and management. This program sharpens skills in navigating real estate markets, conducting feasibility studies, and making strategic decisions in real estate.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as real estate investment analysts, property developers, or asset managers.
Social and Governance Factors for Business
The Social and Governance Factors for Business concentration emphasizes integrating social responsibility into business practices, evaluating governance structures, and driving positive societal impact through strategic decision-making. Students learn skills in ethical leadership, corporate social responsibility, and stakeholder engagement.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as sustainability managers, corporate governance consultants, or social impact strategists.
Statistics
The Statistics concentration equips students with advanced quantitative skills for applying statistical methods in business decision-making, providing students with the skills to extract meaningful insights from data and inform strategic choices in various industries.
Graduates with this concentration are well-suited for roles as data analysts, statisticians, or quantitative researchers.
Strategic Management
The Strategic Management concentration emphasizes critical thinking, effective decision-making, and aligning organizational objectives with dynamic market conditions, providing graduates with a strategic mindset to drive organizational success.
Graduates are well-prepared for roles as strategic consultants, business analysts, or executive leaders.
In-demand MBA concentrations
In-demand MBA concentrations are specialized areas of study currently sought after by employers and industries. These concentrations are “in demand” because they equip students with skills and knowledge that are particularly relevant to and desired in today's business landscape.
Opting for an in-demand MBA concentration can
enhance your marketability
make you a strong candidate for roles that align with the specific expertise gained in that concentration
potentially lead to a higher starting salary.
According to the Graziadio Business School at Pepperdine University and the Raymond A. Mason School of Business at the College of William & Mary, the following MBA concentrations are the most in-demand as of writing:
Business Analytics
Corporate Strategy
Cybersecurity
Economics
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Healthcare Management
Human Resources
Information Technology
International Business
Marketing
Product Management
Project Management
Real Estate
Many of these are covered above. For any not, below, you’ll find descriptions of the concentrations.
Corporate Strategy
The Corporate Strategy concentration equips students with skills in analyzing market trends, assessing competitive landscapes, and developing strategies that drive organizational success.
Graduates emerge prepared for roles as strategic planners, management consultants, or corporate development managers.
Cybersecurity
In the Cybersecurity concentration, students acquire skills in risk assessment, threat detection, and security policy development. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in ethical hacking, security protocols, and crisis management.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as cybersecurity analysts, information security officers, or cybersecurity consultants.
Human Resources
The Human Resources concentration focuses on developing skills in talent management, organizational development, and employee relations. This concentration equips students with the ability to attract and retain top talent, implement effective HR policies, and foster a positive organizational culture.
Graduates are well-prepared for roles as HR managers, talent acquisition specialists, or organizational development consultants.
Information Technology
The Information Technology concentration explores the intersection of business and technology. The concentration emphasizes aligning IT solutions with business objectives, managing technology projects, and making strategic decisions in the IT landscape.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as IT managers, technology consultants, or systems analysts.
Product Management
The Product Management concentration emphasizes customer-centric product design, market analysis, and strategic decision-making in product development. Students acquire skills in market research, product development, and product launch strategies.
Graduates are well-suited for roles as product managers, product marketing managers, or innovation directors.
Project Management
In the Project Management concentration, students develop practical project management methodologies, effective communication, and strategic decision-making, providing graduates with the tools to successfully lead projects across diverse industries.
This concentration prepares graduates for roles as project managers, program managers, or project consultants.
What is the best MBA concentration?
The “best” MBA concentration is highly subjective and depends entirely on your goals, interests, and career aspirations. There is no one-size-fits-all answer because each concentration caters to specific skill sets and industries.
For example:
If you aspire to be a financial analyst or investment banker, a Finance concentration may be ideal.
Information Technology or Entrepreneurship could be a better fit for those with a passion for technology and innovation.
Similarly, if your goal is to lead and inspire teams, Human Resources or General Management may align with your ambitions.
Ultimately, the “best” MBA concentration is the one that best fits your personal and professional goals.
How to choose an MBA concentration
Your MBA concentration should align your education with your career goals and interests. Here are five tips to help you navigate the decision of choosing an MBA concentration.
Conduct a Self-Assessment
Begin by thoroughly assessing your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and career goals. Consider the skills you excel in, areas you are passionate about, and the industry or role you aspire to work in. This self-awareness will guide you in selecting a concentration that aligns with your unique strengths and goals.
Research Industry and Job Market Trends
Research industry trends to identify concentrations in high demand. Look for areas where there is a growing need for specialized skills. This may enhance your employability after graduation and ensure that your chosen concentration aligns with the evolving needs of the corporate world.
Go On Informational Interviews and Network
Connect with professionals in your desired industry and conduct informational interviews to gain insights into the skills and knowledge valued in the field. Networking with alumni or industry experts can provide valuable perspective on which concentrations are most relevant and beneficial for your desired career path.
Assess Program Strengths
Research MBA programs to understand the concentrations they offer and the unique aspects of each. Look for programs with strong faculty, relevant coursework, and potential for experiential learning, such as internships or consulting projects.
Talk to Academic Advisors
Engage with academic advisors or career counselors at your business school. They can provide guidance based on your academic background, career goals, and the program's unique offerings. Discussing your options with professionals who understand the curriculum and industry landscape can offer valuable insights into making an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Key Takeaways:
MBA concentrations can supplement the general business education you receive from an MBA program. However, it’s not necessary to choose a concentration. You can still thrive and succeed in your post-MBA career without a concentration.
Are you preparing to apply for an MBA program? We recommend speaking with our graduate school admissions consultants. We can help you craft a strong personal statement and navigate the MBA application process.
So, why wait? Schedule a consultation and begin taking the next step toward getting your MBA!
Ameer is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about college admissions and career development. Prior to freelancing, Ameer worked for three years as a college admissions consultant at a Hong Kong-based education center, helping local high school students prepare and apply for top colleges and universities in the US. He has a B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Spanish Linguistics from UCLA. When he’s not working, Ameer loves traveling, weight lifting, writing, reading, and learning foreign languages. He currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Top values: Growth / Diversity / Empathy
