If you aspire to take your business career to another level, an MBA will definitely help.

If you look at CEOs and successful entrepreneurs, the kind of people who pop up on Forbes lists, you'll find a large number of MBAs.

Caleb Woods

A Masters of Business Administration is one of the most impressive credentials out there. However, the question remains: is an MBA worth the time and money?

If you want to go to the top, the answer is yes. In fact, it's probably a better idea than ever before. The job market is highly competitive, and an MBA gives you a distinct advantage. What's more, you can save big by taking your degree online.

So let's take a look at some of the ways an MBA can help you make the most of your career.

Key Tip: Specialize

The first thing to say is this: specialize. An MBA is a great asset. But it's even more valuable if your training prepares you for a specific aspect of business management. Cultivating an area of expertise can increase your attractiveness to potential employers. With that in mind, here are some of the best MBA specialties to pursue.

International Business

If you hope to work for a multinational corporation, an MBA in international business is your ace in the hole. It will allow you to go wherever opportunity takes you, confident in your global business skills.

General Management

If you're worried that specializing will make your skillset to narrow, consider studying general management. As the name implies, this specialization will equip you with a broad range of skills that will impress any employer.

Finance

If you want to focus on data analysis, stats, or accounting, this is the path for you. Finance MBAs qualify you for a career in banking or financial management.

Marketing

If communication is more your thing, consider an MBA in marketing. You'll learn to make strategic decisions on the PR front. These days, perception is reality.

Strategic Management

For those who are most interested in the big picture, strategic management is an ideal specialization. The ability to spot and exploit long term trends is more valuable than ever. It's a skill set that can take you straight to the top.

Entrepreneurship

Finally, if you're interested in starting your own business, you can get an MBA with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. Change the world and be your own boss? Sounds like a plan to us.

Options For Mature Students

If you're a little older than the typical college student, you shouldn't be deterred. Education is a lifelong pursuit, and retooling yourself is more important than ever in a competitive job market.

Besides, you won't be alone. There are many mature students on college campuses. In fact, the average student age at Harvard is 27, reflecting a large number of older collegians.

If anything, mature students are ideal candidates for MBA programs because they have real-life work experience. So if you're looking to take that next step, you should go for it.

Finally, many schools offer MBAs and other degrees specifically tailored to older students. Make sure to inquire about those opportunities. Look into financial support as well; many colleges slash prices for mature students.