MBA in South-Eastern Europe - What is Needed?

In most SE European countries, an MBA (Master of Business Administration) is still frequently confused with the NBA (National Basketball Association). There are many managers, even in top executive positions that have not even heard of MBA. This means that MBA is not obligatory to reach the top in business. This is, it is not mandatory if you are already there, on the top. But if you are a young professional or an experienced manager in need of a good job, a career change or a career-boost, then an MBA might be for you.

Most of MBA programs in this part of the world are affiliates of western business schools that provide instructors, programs, books, learning materials and case-studies. Some local business schools are striving to develop their own programs, but are confronted with the main obstacle in the form of shortage or lack of business-experienced professors.

In most of the SEE countries (Serbia included) legislature (University Act) does not recognize, nor regulates MBA program. This creates an open space for various forms of MBA, some accredited, some not. In some cases accreditation does not mean much, which puts the burden of choice on the student himself/herself.

How good is an MBA program?

MBA is not at all different than a regular undergraduate or graduate university-level program. A program or a school is as good as their professors are good and as their students are good. When in doubt, prospective student should inquire about the positions and companies their graduates are employed with. Successful schools provide long lists of graduates that hold CEO, GM, VP or other senior posts with reputable international or local companies.

History

The Master in Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most sought after degrees in the world. The MBA programs have been taught in the USA for over 100 years, but more recently, since the 1960s, the "MBA-craze" has spread around the world like the wild forest-fire fueled by an ever-changing business climate. Today, virtually all universities and business schools offer MBA programs.

What kind of MBA is needed in SE Europe?

SE Europe and the Western Balkan in particular are pretty much a "virgin territory" when it comes to MBA. A good, general MBA, without bells and whistles is what it takes right now. Too many engineers, medical doctors, attorneys, pharmacists, physicists, psychologists and others are in top management positions in their companies, "begging" to learn modern management tools and skills that would enable them to be even more successful in their jobs and help them move upward. We do not need Harvard MBA right now, but solid, B-level program. This is similar to driving a good, 3-year old Golf IV over a bumpy road or suffering in a sporty Ferrari. Every road requires the right kind of vehicle, and every business career the right kind of training.

Danilo Goliani