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I hold a Hong Kong Associate Degree in Business Studies and I plan to advance my academic qualifications by applying for an MBA.  How shall I plan?”

              -  a Hong Kong student holding an Associate Degree in Business Studies. 

Understanding the Transition from Associate Degree to MBA

Transiting from an associate degree directly to a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) is not the typical path, as most MBA programmes require a bachelor’s degree. Here is how you can navigate this journey.

• Credit Transfers:  Look for institutions that offer credit transfers from your associate degree to a bachelor’s programme.  Universities in Hong Kong including the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong Baptist University, City University of Hong Kong, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offer credit transfers for associate degree holders applying for their undergraduate programmes in Business Studies.  Various universities overseas also have the same arrangement.  This can significantly reduce the time required to complete your bachelor’s degree.   Alternatively, consider online or part-time bachelor’s programmes that allow you to work while studying. 

• Strengthen Your Profile:  Aim for strong academic performance in your bachelor’s programme to become a competitive MBA applicant. Take courses aligned with business management, finance, economics, and advanced modules such as data analytics, e-commerce and entrepreneurship and sustainability.

• Gain Work Experience: Most MBA programmes require three to five years of work experience.  Seek roles that offer leadership opportunities in business conglomerates or organisations to gain relevant business exposure while completing your bachelor’s degree.

• Internships: If planning to transition directly from an associate degree, internships in the business world can provide valuable experience and enhance your resume.  Numerous business conglomerates in Hong Kong offer business internship programmes worth considering, such as the PCCW/HKT Internship Programme, Ogilvy Hong Kong Summer Internship Programme, AECOM Hong Kong Summer Internship Programme, and Heng Seng Bank Student Internship Programme, among others. 

• Extracurricular Activities:  Engage in extracurricular activities and take up leadership roles will demonstrate your ability to manage teams and projects.  Participating proactively in business clubs, associations, and networks to build connections with industry elites, gain industry insights and broaden your views will be advantageous.    Local organisations such as the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC), Hong Kong Business Network (HKBN) and Hong Kong Association of Business Professional Women (HKABPW) offer membership for young professionals and interns.  The Hong Kong Management Association (HKMA) organises regular programmes and events for young professionals, including interns. 

Preparing for MBA Applications

• Standardised Tests:  Most MBA programmes require The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores.  Start preparing early using resources like prep courses, practice tests and study guides, or seek guidance from professional educational advisors.    Research the average GMAT/GRE scores for your target MBA schools and aim for scores higher than their average. 

• Essays and Personal Statement: You are required to submit high-quality essays on various topics as part of the MBA application.   Additionally, write a compelling personal statement highlighting your academic journey, work experience (including volunteering work), internships, and career goals that motivate you to pursue an MBA. 

• Recommendation Letters: Obtain strong recommendation letters from employers, department heads, or professionals who can attest to your skills, work ethic and potential.

Choosing the Right MBA Programme

• Accreditation:  Ensure the programmes you are considering are accredited by recognised bodies like The Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), among others.

• Reputation and Curriculum: Research the reputation of the business school you aim for and its MBA programme.  Look for programmes that offer specialisations aligned with your career goals, such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, or international business.  Check for strong industry connections,  opportunities for MBA internships, consulting projects and networking events.  Rankings from sources like the Financial Times can be useful.

• Study Mode and Financial Support: Decide if you prefer to study locally, internationally, or through an online programme.  Consider the level of financial support available and whether a full-time, part-time, or executive MBA programmes best fits your professional and personal commitments. 

Application Timeline

• Research: Start researching MBA programmes 12 to 18 months before your intended start date. Begin your GMAT/GRE preparation at least a year in advance.

• Application Rounds: MBA programmes typically have multiple application rounds.  Aim to apply in the first or second round to increase your chances of admission and access to scholarships.  

• Documentation: Ensure all the components of your application, including transcripts, test scores, personal statements, and recommendation letters are ready before the deadline.

Transitioning from an associate business degree to an MBA is a strategic move that requires careful planning and preparation.  By enhancing your qualifications, gaining relevant experience, and selecting the right MBA programme, you can set the stage for a successful career in the business world.  For personalised guidance and support, consider consulting with professional educational advisors, such as our consultants at Bearing Academy to help you make this important decision.   Contact us today at info@bearing-academy.com and let us help you navigate this important journey in your life.