Amid concerns around inflation and economic uncertainty, a new survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) offers encouraging news for recent MBA graduates. As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape business operations, employers are placing greater value on strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to leverage AI tools—skills that business school graduates are uniquely positioned to offer.

According to GMAC’s 2025 Corporate Recruiters Survey, employers increasingly view MBA graduates as essential contributors in navigating technological disruption. Joy Jones, CEO of GMAC, noted, “As AI becomes more integral to strategy and decision-making, business school graduates stand out for their ability to innovate and lead through change.”

The survey gathered responses from 1,108 corporate recruiters and hiring managers across 46 countries, with nearly two-thirds representing Global Fortune 500 firms. The findings reflect strong confidence in the value of graduate business education across multiple sectors.

Key Insights from the Survey

  • Strong Confidence in Business Education: 99% of global employers say business schools effectively prepare graduates for success, and nearly two-thirds say these skills are more crucial than ever as tech adoption grows.
  • High Demand for Human Skills: Employers continue to prioritize communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. These traits are increasingly important alongside technical capabilities in the evolving workplace.
  • Remote Work Validates Online Degrees: Over half of global employers agree that skills from business programs are even more important for remote/hybrid work environments. Similarly, 55% equally value graduates of in-person and online programs.
  • Gen Z Professionalism Under Scrutiny: 61% of recruiters believe recent graduates exhibit similar professionalism to past cohorts. However, around 25% of recruiters in consulting and healthcare sectors express concerns.
  • Strong Hiring Outlook for MBAs: 76% of employers expect to maintain or increase MBA hiring in 2025. An overwhelming 90% plan to hire MBA talent—more than those with bachelor’s degrees or lateral hires from other firms.

Christine Murray, associate dean at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, emphasized, “Graduates should feel confident that their MBA—earned in-person or online—remains a powerful differentiator. Their mix of strategic, analytical, and communication skills is in high demand.”

GMAC’s Corporate Recruiters Survey has tracked hiring trends, skill needs, and perceptions of graduate management education for over 20 years. This year’s data, gathered in partnership with the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) and the Career Services and Employer Alliance (CSEA), underscores the resilience and relevance of the MBA in today’s tech-driven economy.

To explore more findings from GMAC’s 2025 Corporate Recruiters Survey, visit gmac.com.

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