Do I Need an MBA for Product Management?

• Product managers are in high demand across multiple industries.
• More MBA programs are offering concentrations in product management.
• An MBA in product management can give you a competitive advantage on the job market.
• Students who earn a product management MBA prepare for success in various industries.

Product managers are in high demand, and it's a great time to think about entering the field. Glassdoor ranked product manager third in a list of the best jobs in America for 2021, with over 14,000 job openings. Many of these available positions are in the software and tech industries.

Although you currently don't need an MBA to land a job as a product manager, an advanced degree can help get your foot in the door when applying to high-profile companies. An MBA in product management can also help you climb the corporate ladder faster than you would with only a bachelor's degree.

Why Get an MBA in Product Management?

When hiring product managers, employers typically look for job candidates with a few years of management experience under their belt. An MBA program that offers a concentration in product management can serve as a substitute for much of the experience that employers seek.

Product management is a critical function of the product development process. Product managers must be effective leaders and communicators. They also need skills in product engineering, product development, analytics, research, sales, organizational behavior, and marketing — MBA programs teach these skills through real-world scenarios. Product managers may oversee the production process for a variety of products, from software to foodstuffs to electronics.

Given the current high demand for product managers, more business schools are now offering MBA degrees with concentrations or specializations in product management. This is great news if you plan to enter the field. Even if the business school you apply to doesn't offer a specific concentration in product management, a general MBA program or an MBA program with a concentration in any business area can teach you the tools necessary to excel as a product manager.

There are many advantages associated with getting an MBA in product management. But is an MBA worth the investment of time and money? Decide for yourself by reviewing the pros and cons listed below.

Pros of Getting an MBA in Product Management

Cons of Getting an MBA in Product Management

Alternatives to Getting an MBA in Product Management

• Earn a certificate in product management. Many business schools offer online certificates in product management.
• Take a professional product management training program.
• Become a certified product manager through the many certification program options available through the Association of International Product Marketing and Management.
• Try to get a paid internship in product management to get your foot in the door and gain valuable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About an MBA in Product Management

Reviewed by:

Krystal Covington, MBA

Krystal Covington, MBA, is a business growth strategist with 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations. Her company, Go Lead Consulting, provides clients with foundational tools to build new client and customer relationships.

Covington founded Women of Denver, one of the largest privately held membership organizations in Denver, Colorado. Her program helps women increase their business acumen, sharpen leadership skills, and connect with other high-achieving women. Covington received her MBA from Western Governors University in 2012.

Krystal Covington is a paid member of the Red Ventures Education freelance review network.