How To Pick a Program That Lands You a Job

School rankings absolutely matter to most students, but choosing the right undergraduate business school goes beyond just the numbers.

What’s also important is landing a program that prepares you for today’s job market. U.S. News recently listed the top factors they believe students should consider when looking for a business school.

CAREER SERVICES: YOUR JOB-SEARCH POWERHOUSE

A strong career services department can be a game-changer. Schools with dedicated resources for resume building, interview preparation and networking can really help a student’s chances of landing paid internships and full-time roles. Success takes effort and career services will help, but students need to stay engaged. A few visits won’t necessarily guarantee a job – consistent visits are often key.

HANDS-ON LEARNING: A COMPETITIVE EDGE

The employers of today want more than classroom knowledge – they want to hire grads with practical skills. Programs that offer internships, consulting projects, study-abroad experiences, and entrepreneurship labs are key for students, because employers want graduates to apply theoretical information to their real business challenges. The best business schools have the opportunities built into the curriculum – not just as optional extras.

ALUMNI NETWORKS & INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS

Connections and networking can be crucial for career growth. Schools with strong alumni networks often provide mentorship, recruiting pipelines, and job referrals. Schools that consistently attract the same top employers are a green flag for strong industry ties, and the hiring process tends to be smoother and faster for students transitioning into these companies.

CAREER OUTCOMES THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

A business degree is only as valuable as the doors it opens, and it is important to check a school’s career outcomes data. Employment rates, starting salaries, and internship rates can tell a story about whether a school truly prepares students for success. “Pay close attention to which schools maintain exceptional outcomes despite market conditions,” says Rishabh Gupta, CEO of GyanOne Universal, an MBA admission consulting firm.