Global economic optimism hasn’t been at an all-time high of late, but according to the end-of-year 2012 survey released by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the job market for graduate degree holders set to gain degrees in 2013, may be looking up.

Photo by Rishabh Kumar

GMAC, who are the U.S. based masterminds behind the GMAT test, used by many global MBA institutions for students seeking admission, conduct an annual yearly survey on the job market, through talking with potential employers. The 2012 survey saw 201 potential employers being polled -  70% in the U.S., 12% in Europe, 9% in Latin America, and the remainder 6% in Asia.

“Employers recognize that employees with graduate business degrees are a wise investment when times are uncertain and they need talent that not only bring skills but agility to meet the changing demands of these times,” says GMAC President and CEO Dave Wilson.

The conclusion of the report indicated that 76% of employers surveyed are generally optimistic for 2013, with plans to hire new MBA graduates. Specialty business degree holders: MBA, Master of Accounting, Master of Finance, and Master in Management also indicated a steadily growing demand in the hiring polls. 

GMAC Survey Key Projections for 2013:

76 percent of employers expect to hire MBA graduates (up from 69% in 2012). 

43 percent plan to hire Master in Management candidates (up from 33% in 2012).

40 percent intend to hire Master of Accounting graduates (up from 32% in 2012).

39 percent project to hire Master of Finance candidates (up from 32% in 2012).