Employers in China have reported a 19% increase in MBA jobs in 2010, compared to 2009, significantly higher than the US and Western Europe where growth was 5% and 3% respectively, reveals the 2010/11 QS Top MBA Jobs and Salary Trends Report, conducted by MBA specialists “QS Top MBA”.

Nunzio Quacquarelli, editor of the Report, based on a survey of 2145 MBA employers, says: “After a 5% decline worldwide, experienced in 2009, optimism is returning to the MBA marketplace and MBA salaries are likely to jump again in the near future if a double-dip recession is avoided.”

The QS Top MBA Report also reveals:

- MBA salaries around the world are converging: the average MBA salary reported in Asia in 2010 was $69,000 compared to an average $85,000 in Western Europe and $87,000 in the US. The average MBA salary reported for China was $43,200.

- Main sectors driving MBA growth around the world are: IT/Computer services recording a 39% jump; financial services with a 22% increase; and consulting with a 19% jump in demand in 2010.

- MBA salaries in North America and Western Europe average; $87,600 in consulting, plus a first-year average bonus of $21,700 and $90,900 in finance, plus a $39,000 bonus.

James Platt, a partner with responsibility for MBA hiring at Boston Consulting Group confirms the company has been growing at double digit rate rates since 2003. “BCG is continuing with our successful MBA recruiting in 2010. We recognise the MBA as an outstanding achievement and will continue to focus on the top European, UK and US business schools.”