What to do after a bachelor's degree?

Continuing your studies after a bachelor’s degree 

If you’re considering further education, your choice should align with your career aspirations. Enrolling in internationally renowned business schools can help you make the most of your academic investment. 
 

Why continue your studies after a bachelor’s degree? 

While a bachelor’s degree prepares you for entering the workforce, pursuing further education allows you to deepen your academic knowledge and target more prestigious roles. The more advanced your qualifications, the greater your chances of meeting employers’ expectations for high-responsibility positions. 

When choosing a private higher education institution, pay close attention to the quality of teaching, the school's reputation, networking opportunities, and how well the program matches your ambitions. 

Enrolling in a master’s program at a business school 

emlyon business school offers a wide range of Master’s programs. No matter your area of interest, you’ll find a master’s-level program (equivalent to five years of post-secondary education) that helps you build expertise valued by top employers. 

After a bachelor’s degree, you can join one of the school’s Master’s programs in diverse fields such as finance, innovation management, digital marketing, artificial intelligence, or consulting. 

Advanced Masters are designed for students with a clear idea of their desired career path. emlyon’s programs cater to current industry demands in areas like law, digital transformation, or international business. For example, if you aim to become an international business lawyer, the “Mastère Spécialisé Juriste Manager International” will help you develop a strategic vision of the profession. 
 

Joining a Master in Management – Grande Ecole 

emlyon’s Master in Management - Grande Ecole, which confers a Master’s degree, is accessible with a bachelor’s degree. It is ideal for those still uncertain about their career direction. The PGE offers a flexible path that evolves as you progress, with gradual specialization, international internships, and exceptional skill-building opportunities. 

The PGE also encourages students to stand out and develop their unique profile through double degrees, academic exchanges, elective courses, and interdisciplinary skills aligned with real-world demands. 
 

Specializing with an MBA 

emlyon’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a cutting-edge program in management and leadership. It prepares executives and future leaders to excel in business strategy. An MBA is often seen as a career booster, opening doors to exclusive opportunities. 
 

Choosing between further study and employment 

Still unsure whether to study more, get a job, launch a business, or take a gap year? Here are a few thoughts to help guide your decision. 

What criteria should you consider? 

If you have a clear career goal and your bachelor’s degree qualifies you for jobs in that field, pursuing further studies may not be necessary. 

Likewise, if you want to start a business, your project is well-prepared, and your school provides strong support and an incubator like emlyon, your bachelor’s degree may be enough to launch your venture. 

However, if you lack a strong support network, if your target roles require a master’s degree, or if you feel you need more maturity before beginning your career, further academic study can be a smart choice. 
 

Taking a gap year after a bachelor’s degree: good or bad idea? 

A gap year after a bachelor’s degree can be a great opportunity to broaden your horizons, step outside your comfort zone, and reflect on your professional goals. Traveling may help you redefine your ambitions and mature, setting you up for a strong career start. 

To make the most of your gap year and avoid any setbacks, try to get involved in a meaningful, impactful project that adds value to your CV. 

A gap year—especially one involving travel—can be an excellent idea, provided it’s well thought out and well organized. 
 

Is a bachelor’s degree recognized by employers? 

A bachelor’s degree from one of Europe’s top business schools like emlyon is highly regarded on the job market. 
 

Bachelor vs. Licence: what’s the difference? 

A licence is a national degree awarded by public universities in France. While it is recognized across Europe, its value may not be as easily acknowledged abroad. Without choosing a licence professionnelle, it can be challenging to enter the job market with a general licence. 

On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree from an internationally oriented business school opens doors to the global job market. With a focus on practical experience, this diploma prepares students for immediate employment. If you plan to continue studying, a bachelor’s degree also gives you access to English-taught master’s programs tailored for an international career. 

Is a bachelor’s degree recognized by the french government? 

Bachelor’s programs from private institutions are recognized by the French state based on the quality of their curriculum. Prestigious business schools like emlyon have their bachelor’s programs certified by the French government and listed in the Répertoire National des Certifications Professionnelles (RNCP). 
 

What are the advantages of a bachelor’s degree? 

A bachelor’s degree is ideal for students seeking a well-rounded, internationally focused education. Offering both professional preparation and opportunities for further study, the bachelor’s degree is an elite hybrid program especially when pursued at a prestigious school.