What's MBA worth?

It’s no secret that women who have MBA degrees make more money than women who don’t. In addition, a study done by Fuqua Business School at Duke University reported that women without an MBA make an average of $6,000 less annually than their male counterparts, but that gender gap shrinks to about $1,000 when women are MBA holders. Despite the economic rewards, fewer women than men apply to MBA programs. Why?

One reason is that women can be put off by the business school environment, which stereotypically tends to be extremely competitive and lacking in female faculty and support systems. Fortunately, schools recognize this concern and to improve their reputations by offering more women-centric services and courses, increasing their marketing towards women candidates, and upping the number of female professors.

With the increased emphasis on drawing women to biz school programs and because of the rewards--higher salaries and better networking and career opportunities--pursuing a business degree might be the way to go. But because of the intensity of many programs, especially those at the top schools, business school requires a level of stamina and commitment that you must be willing and prepared to make. Be sure to talk with current students and teachers to see if the climate and demands are acceptable to you.