What having an MBA on your CV says about you
Posted on: 18 June, 2025
From BSc and MSc to PhD, MRICS and MCIOB, the working world is full of post-nominal acronyms, each from different memberships, degrees and certifications.
These acronyms designate a higher level of expertise and commitment to learning, and the letters ‘MBA’ are no exception.
But what does having an MBA say about you, and how can it be of benefit to built environment professionals?
1. You’re committed to your career
For many institutions, having a bachelor’s degree is a standard requirement for enrolling on an MBA. This means that, all told, you’ll have spent at least five years in education (potentially longer if you completed a degree apprenticeship), which is a serious commitment to learning and development.
What’s more, many MBAs are part-time, like UCEM’s online Master of Business Administration, which means you may have had to balance your education around your day-to-day employment and devote a significant amount of time to study.
These factors contribute to the reputation MBA degrees hold as an impressive and respectable achievement.
2. You’ve invested in your development
Another reflection of your commitment is the cost of studying an MBA, which, unless your employer has sponsored you, you may have to pay back or purchase outright on top of any other qualifications you’ve achieved.
While the prices of these courses can vary, they’re recognised as a significant investment that signifies your commitment to learning and advancing your career.
This displays an added layer of commitment to your profession or aspirations – employers will recognise you’re in for the long haul with this career path.
Learn more: Is an MBA worth it?
3. You’re ambitious
MBA graduates have been shown to have higher salaries on average than their undergraduate and postgraduate counterparts, and experience better employment opportunities. They’re also able to apply for roles with particularly exclusive organisations in areas like management consulting.
As a result, having an MBA on your CV signifies you’re ambitious and committed to your work. Regardless of where your ambition takes you – whether that’s into a C-Suite role, across into a new industry or as an entrepreneur – this qualification can earn you greater recognition.
4. You’re on the path to leadership and management
The skills an MBA will help you develop in how to effectively lead, manage operations and drive strategic change will position you as a candidate for leadership roles.
So if a recruiter sees your CV, they could be more inclined to select you for a role with seniority and management responsibilities. It also means that, like other graduates pursuing roles in this area, you could see your salary increase to over £100,000 a year.
5. You’ve built a network of fellow professionals
One of the biggest benefits of studying for an MBA is the network of like-minded professionals you’ll meet in your cohort.
The value of networking as an aspiring leader cannot be understated. These contacts can give you a leg-up over the competition when you’re applying for roles and contribute to an impressive
6. You’re resilient and can deal with adversity
An MBA is also a step up from undergraduate education. It’s a challenging and demanding programme where you need to be disciplined and manage your time effectively if you want to succeed.
Not only will achieving this qualification display your commitment to learning, but it will also showcase your ability to work under pressure, deal with adversity and manage your time effectively.
To an employer, business partner or investor, seeing an MBA alongside your work experience will reflect your ability to take on big projects simultaneously.
7. You’ve got a broad and valuable skillset
While there are MBA programmes that can help you specialise in certain areas, the content of these courses remains purposefully broad and varied.
UCEM’s Master of Business Administration for instance, which is ideal for built environment professionals, includes both management and leadership knowledge alongside exposure to finance and marketing.
As a result you’ll be familiar with other crucial areas of business and ready to pitch in and contribute from the word go.
If you’re an existing built environment professional or are looking to make your mark in the sector, UCEM’s specialist MBA can give you the knowledge, tools and experience you need to succeed.
Find out more: Master of Business Administration (MBA) – University College of Estate Management
