A look at alternative yet impactful MBA careers

Gurnoor Chauhan, MBA ’25

Internships — the most used word in the life of a first-year MBA student. As soon as you join any MBA program, you get to join the race of finding yourself an internship. Embarking on this journey often throws students into the competitive pursuit of securing a coveted position. However, acknowledging our own inherent interests, we may find that life sometimes presents unexpected opportunities. Considering this, I have compiled a list of alternative career paths — diverging from the conventional routes of consulting and finance — that illustrate the breadth of possibilities an MBA degree, like the Broad MBA at Michigan State University, can offer.

1. Corporate Social Responsibility Manager: CSR managers focus on formulating and executing socially responsible initiatives within organizations. Their role involves aligning business activities with ethical and sustainable practices, helping organizations contribute to a positive impact on society.
2. Health Care Administrator: MBA graduates specializing in health care management can pursue roles as administrators in hospitals, clinics or other health care organizations. In this capacity, they oversee operations, engage in strategic planning and manage financial aspects of health care institutions.
3. Sustainability Manager: With an increasing emphasis on environmental consciousness in business today, sustainability managers play a pivotal role in developing and implementing eco-friendly practices within organizations. They contribute to the overall goal of making businesses more environmentally sustainable.
4. User Experience Designer: MBA graduates with an interest in design thinking and user-centered approaches can delve into the field of UX design. In this role, they ensure that products and services align with customer needs and preferences, emphasizing a user-friendly experience.
5. Education Consultant: MBA graduates can leverage their academic experiences and business acumen to serve as education consultants. They can guide prospective students through the intricacies of MBA program applications, offering strategic planning and financial management advice and fostering applicants’ personal development. Assisting students in navigating the application process and interviews can also be immensely gratifying for MBA graduates.
6. Entrepreneur: Entrepreneurship is no easy task. Entrepreneurs actively seek opportunities in the market or identify gaps in existing products or services. This involves understanding market trends, consumer needs and areas where innovation or improvement is possible. The work of an entrepreneur is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring a combination of skills, determination and resilience to navigate the challenges and uncertainties associated with starting and running a business.

These unconventional roles underscore the versatility of an MBA degree, allowing graduates to explore diverse career paths tailored to their interests and expertise. As industries continue to evolve, new opportunities for MBA graduates will undoubtedly emerge, showcasing the adaptability and relevance of their skillset in an ever-changing professional landscape.