Is an MBA still worth it in a rapidly advancing world?

A blog post written by Priya Pandey (EMBA 2024)

“Is an MBA still worth it in a rapidly advancing world?”

I hear this often, especially from those who care about us. The belief is that, as industries become increasingly tech-driven, AI is going to take over most of the leadership roles. This weekend, as I wrapped up my final exams for Michaelmas term at Cambridge Judge Business School, I reflect on how transformative these past five months have been.

Here’s what I’ve gained so far:

World Economics: Seeing the Bigger Picture
Learning from world-class Professor Jochen Runde, I now connect socio-economic models to real-world scenarios, allowing me to anticipate market shifts and business opportunities with greater clarity even in small markets.

Financial Reporting & Corporate Finance: A Skill for Life
My experience in Investment Banking gave me practical exposure to finance, but this course formalized my understanding of fundamentals, being able to read, understand and comprehend a company’s growth on a greater scale. Regardless of industry, financial literacy is crucial for everyone. Forever thankful to Dr Othaman Cole, Professor Khaled Soufani.

Business Analytics: The Science Behind Strategy
Before this course, I never thought about the algorithms behind hotel pricing or inventory management. Thanks to Prof. Danny Ralph, now I see how data-driven decision-making drives industries beyond financial world (e.g. Portfolio Management). Business analytics is more than just numbers—it’s about predicting trends, optimizing resources, and staying ahead in a competitive landscape.

Public Speaking & Presentation Skills: The Art of Influence
Influencing people is at the core of leadership—whether in boardrooms, client meetings, or personal interactions. The ongoing coaching I receive in this area is invaluable, equipping me with the confidence and clarity to lead, persuade, and inspire.

Culture & Networking: Expanding Beyond My Industry
For years, my world revolved around banking. This MBA has broadened my perspective, introducing me to industries, ideas, and people I would have never encountered otherwise. I may not be an expert in every field, but I now know who I can reach out to in case I have a question for a specific industry.

Beyond the Degree: A Mindset Shift
These past five months have been a game-changer. The MBA isn’t just about creating immediate economic value—it’s about personal transformation, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complexity in an ever-changing world. For those wondering whether an MBA is still worth it, I’ll say this: There is no doubt that one should always have their core expertise, but on top of that, an MBA provides you a framework and helps you become a leader who anticipates change and drives the future.