Despite economic uncertainty, recent business school graduates have reason to feel optimistic.
According to the 2025 Corporate Recruiters Survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), business school talent remains highly valued across industries—even as global employers navigate inflation, recession concerns, and geopolitical instability. The big driver? The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which is amplifying demand for strategic thinkers, problem-solvers, and tech-savvy professionals.
“As AI becomes more integral to business strategy, employers continue to turn to business school graduates for their versatility and innovation,” said Joy Jones, CEO of GMAC.
Findings from the 2025 GMAC Survey
1. AI Proficiency Is Now a Top Hiring Priority
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Knowledge of AI tools has risen significantly in importance for employers since 2024.
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It’s projected to be the most valuable skill five years from now.
2. Business Education Seen as More Valuable Than Ever
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99% of global employers say business schools effectively prepare grads for the workplace.
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Nearly two-thirds say business degrees are more critical than ever in the tech-driven economy.
3. Human Skills Remain Essential
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Over 50% of employers prioritize communication skills in hiring.
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Emotional intelligence and adaptability are also key differentiators.
4. Tech Employers Are Especially Bullish on Business Grads
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55% of tech employers say business education matters more in remote/hybrid work environments.
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57% value online and in-person business degrees equally.
5. Gen Z Professionalism Still Being Evaluated
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61% of recruiters say recent grads show professionalism comparable to past cohorts.
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Consulting and healthcare/pharma recruiters show slightly more skepticism.
6. Hiring Projections Remain Strong for MBA Graduates
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76% of employers expect to hire the same or more MBA grads in 2025.
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90% plan to hire MBAs overall—a higher rate than for bachelor’s grads or lateral hires.
“Business school grads should feel empowered,” said Christine Murray of Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business. “Their skills in strategy, problem-solving, and tech fluency give them a major advantage.”
Global Outlook: Confidence Across Borders
The survey gathered input from 1,108 recruiters and hiring managers across 46 countries, including nearly two-thirds from Global Fortune 500 companies. It’s part of GMAC’s ongoing effort to track long-term talent trends, in partnership with EFMD and CSEA.
As employers continue to invest in digital transformation and adapt to new work models, business school graduates—whether trained in-person or online—are seen as future-ready professionals with both technical knowledge and soft skills that drive organizational success.
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