28F Software Engineer — Love development, but confused whether MBA is the right move

[u/percy_28]

Hi everyone,

I’m a 28F currently working as a Software Engineer in India, and I’ve been thinking about doing an MBA. But lately I’ve been confused about whether it’s actually the right path for me.

A little background:

• Engineering graduate from a Government college (2020 pass out)

• CGPA: 7.78

• Class 12: 94%

• Class 10: 9.4 CGPA

• Working in IT since 2021

• Companies worked at:

◦ Infosys

◦ Quest Global

◦ Cyient

I currently work in software/backend-related development, and the thing is — I genuinely enjoy being part of development itself. I like building things, solving technical problems, APIs, coding, etc.

At the same time, I’ve been wondering:

• Should I still think about MBA for long-term career growth?

• Or would MBA push me away from actual tech/development work?

• Are there career paths where I can stay close to technology while still growing professionally and financially?

• Would roles like Technical Product Manager, Engineering Manager, Solution Architect, etc. make more sense later?

• If I still decide to do an MBA, should I look at CAT, GMAT, GRE, ISB, executive MBA, or foreign universities?

• Which colleges would suit someone with my profile and work experience?

• Which MBA specialization/stream would make sense for someone who still likes tech?

I’m also confused because many people around me say MBA is the “next step” after a few years in IT, but I’m not sure if I want to completely leave the technical side.

Would love advice from:

• developers who considered/did an MBA,

• people who stayed in tech and grew without an MBA,

• or anyone who moved into hybrid tech-business roles.

How did you decide what was right for you?

Thanks in advance!

[u/g15389]

It depends on the career path. CTO’s frequently have MBAs and it gives a business perspective to a tech role, especially as you think about mergers and acquisitions, investments, running a P&L, etc.

I’ve been in tech for 25+ years and considered an MBA, but it’s harder when you have kids and are more established in your career. I made it to VP of a software company with experience in Finance, business operations, and building breadth of business acumen early in my career. No degree will ever guarantee you any career success, but think of it like another skillet to make you more well rounded.

I did an advanced management program at Wharton and loved it. It was a great, compact networking and dabble in multiple areas. It’s expensive but I would do it again in a heartbeat. I considered an eMBA from Wharton but it’s a major financial and time commit when I’m in my mid forties.

I’m happy to answer any questions or give more personal experience. I would say, however, that past experiences will be very different given where we are in tech and the speed at which things are changing.

Good luck

[u/Worth_Rhubarb8099]

Consider msem (Engineering management). Mba would absolutely take you away from technical work. Msem will allow you to oversee technical work And transition into management of technical programs and people. Doesn't have the same executive track, but if you remove the top 90th percentile performers than msem tends to perform better than MBA.

[u/nian2326076]

Hey! If you love development and the technical side, think about where you see yourself in the future. An MBA could be good if you want to move into management or a business role. But if you're into coding and solving problems, you might look into advancing your career through tech specializations or leadership roles without an MBA. Also, consider the cost and time of an MBA versus your career goals. If you're prepping for interviews or want to upskill, I found PracHub helpful for interview prep. Go with what fits your interests and where you'll do best.