Let’s face it; with the current economic climate, you are lucky if you can keep the job you have, let alone find a new one. However, more and more companies are shutting down and people are losing their jobs every single day. Aside from proving that you are a hard worker, there is something else that can be done to increase your chances of being deemed an asset to your company; earn your Masters degree in Business.

In reality, it may cost a bit more to earn your Masters of Business degree, but it really is not as hard as it once was to earn. I know, I know. How can I say that a Business Masters degree is easy to earn? Well, it’s simple; online classes. Many colleges and Universities are making the vast majority of their classes available online in order to attempt to better cater to the working adult. So, for those individuals who work a full time job during the day, it is still possible to go back to school – and on your own time!

Now you are probably thinking, “Okay, so the online classes are available, but are they accredited?” And, yes, most of them are. Of course, you should always make certain that the school that you choose is accredited; especially if you are going to spend the money to get your Masters of Business degree.. A degree from an accredited school is important because other institutions will recognize it, whereas a degree from a college that is not accredited will be looked at as a joke.

The fact is that without a Business Masters degree, you may be holding yourself back. For instance, that degree could likely land you a better position within the company that you are already working for. However, if worse comes to worse and your company adds its name to the list of companies that are closing up shop, you will have a business degree that will be able to catapult you into a likely better position than the one that you are currently in anyway.

Another option for those holding a Business Masters degree is the possibility of opening their own business. Masters of Business degree classes will teach you the legal, social and ethical values that you can use to build your business and many of the other business classes will reinforce what you already know. So, if you are tired of working for someone else and never knowing how stable your position is, why not give a business of your own a shot?

1. Versatility: A Masters in Business Administration is one of the most versatile degrees out there. It can help you get ahead in almost any industry. Every company, even doctor’s offices or restaurants, are businesses and therefore can benefit from an employee who has an MBA. Also most MBA programs allow you to specialize in subjects like finance, accounting, and marketing. Other emphasis areas include entrepreneurship, international business, and economics. If you are interested in technology or the internet, you can specialize in information systems or e-business. Want to manage clinics or hospitals? Then a specialization in health care management is for you. You can even join the green trend and get an MBA that focuses on sustainability issues and bringing eco-friendly practices to businesses.

1. Flexibility: MBAs have among the most varied degree programs available. You can choose from accelerated programs without electives that will take you one year to finish, or a two year program or a three. Many schools offer weekend executive MBA programs for people who are working full time. And probably the most convenient – online MBA programs allow you to get your degree online. Some schools require that you go to class a couple of times a semester, but there are plenty of other schools whose programs are completely online. These programs cater to the busy individual allowing you to work on your degree on your own schedule.

1. Make More Money: There have been many studies done that show that people with higher education make more money. The U.S. Census Bureau published a report in April of 2009 that showed that people with Master’s degrees make an average of $80,977, compared to $57,181 for those with a Bachelor’s and $31,286 for those with just a high school diploma. As for specific salary statistics for MBA graduates, the Graduate Management Admissions Council released a report in 2006 that stated that starting annual salaries for MBA graduates averaged above $80,000, which is $10,000 more per year than other Master’s degree graduates.

1. Get That Promotion: Are you ready to take your career to the next level? An MBA is a favorite requirement for upper management positions. This degree is perfect for giving you the training that you need to be a great manager who can consider the big picture. And with all the specialization areas, you can focus on your particular industry, be it a health care or an IT degree. Also the convenience of weekend and online MBA programs allow you to keep your job and go to school. Tip: Don’t forget to ask your company if they offer tuition assistance. Many companies will pay for at least some of your school costs as long as it is related to your job.

1. Confidence: And last but certainly not least, an online MBA (or standard MBA) or any degree does wonders to boost your confidence level. This alone can give you the inner strength to land that dream job, ask for that raise, or finally get that promotion. Plus a university education is a great way to beat the burn-out blues or treat that office boredom.