Business graduates are largely satisfied with their studies and subsequent careers despite many earning relatively modest incomes, according to a survey of alumni of all ages from more than 300 universities around the world.
The survey by the FT and ZHAW School of Management and Law found that the majority of respondents reported strong job satisfaction and a good work-life balance despite high levels of stress. But many also feel that the content and format of business school courses need to be updated to include topics such as artificial intelligence and to expose students to greater international experience, practical skills and time with businesses outside the classroom.
The FT and Swiss school ZHAW conducted the survey with support from AACSB, the US-based accreditation body. The survey polled primarily members of Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honour society for top-performing students from accredited schools.
Of 1,152 alumni who replied — ranging from the classes of 1970 to 2025 — 83 per cent rated their business bachelors or masters courses “highly” or “very highly”, while 15 per cent gave negative feedback. Ratings were even stronger among graduates of FT-ranked schools.
