Research carried out by TopMBA.com indicates that the recent upswing in demand for MBAs is set to continue, with 62% of employers predicting a further increase in MBA hiring for 2005.  The MBA market has gradually picked up over the past two years following a five-year low in spring 2003.

The recent devaluation of the dollar has resulted in the UK becoming a particularly appealing option for top MBAs, who can expect to earn the highest average salaries worldwide.  Across Europe, the French and German economies have remained slow, in contrast with the Spanish and Italian markets in which MBA hiring has gone from strength to strength.  The scope of companies recruiting MBAs is also on the increase in Europe, with a particular rise in the number of technology and telecommunications companies looking to bring in MBA talent. 

Worldwide, the MBA class of 2004 were most likely to be offered roles in marketing, finance and strategic planning.  Research suggests that consulting firms are set to return in a big way in the following months, with all major players predicting large increases in MBA hires. 

As well as the traditional on-campus hiring process which has seen a 30% increase in organisations making campus visits, companies are increasingly sourcing MBAs through other channels including online recruiters and Executive Search companies.  This too is a trend which looks set to continue.