MBA and BCom Graduates Show More Optimism About AI Than BTech Freshers, Says Upskilling Trends Report 2025–26

A recent report by Great Learning, titled ‘Upskilling Trends Report 2025–26’, reveals fascinating insights about Indian professionals’ outlook on Artificial Intelligence (AI), job retention, and career progression. Notably, the study finds that MBA and BCom graduates are more optimistic about AI’s impact on their careers than fresh BTech graduates—a reflection of shifting industry dynamics and evolving workforce expectations.

Work-Life Balance Rising in Importance
One of the most striking trends identified is the increasing emphasis on work-life balance, with 82% of Indian professionals valuing it as much as salary. This shift signals a growing demand for flexibility and well-being in the workplace.

• Among professionals aged 44 to 60, 26% prioritize work-life balance over pay, emphasizing that job satisfaction now goes beyond financial incentives.
• While 51% of all respondents are actively seeking new roles in 2025 and 31% are passively exploring options, older professionals aged 45 to 60 are less inclined to switch jobs, with only 39% actively looking.
   

Job Market Challenges and Confidence
Despite a slowdown in hiring, many professionals remain hopeful:

• 43% of job seekers face challenges related to unmet salary expectations or stiff market competition.
• 35% struggle with the need to acquire new skills or certifications to stay relevant.
• 73% of professionals express confidence in retaining their jobs this year, marking an 11% increase from the previous year.

Job retention confidence varies significantly by location and company size:

• 31% of professionals in Tier-1 cities feel “extremely confident” about job security, compared to 18% in Tier-2 cities.
• Confidence is higher in large companies (85%) versus smaller companies (58%).
   

Optimism About AI: MBA and BCom Graduates Lead
The report highlights a notable divide in attitudes toward AI disruption:

• 78% of all professionals have a positive outlook on how AI will impact their careers.
• However, optimism is particularly strong among MBA graduates (89%) and BCom graduates (84%), who see AI as an opportunity.
• In contrast, fresh BE/BTech graduates exhibit comparatively lower optimism, likely influenced by recent IT sector trends where AI adoption has led to reduced hiring and increased job uncertainty for tech professionals.
   

Upskilling as a Key Career Strategy
The data underscores a robust appetite for learning and skills enhancement:

• In the fiscal year 2026, 85% of professionals believe upskilling is crucial for career growth.
• About 81% plan to invest in acquiring new technical skills.
• Professionals in Tier-1 cities and employees at large firms (93%) are more proactive about upskilling than those in Tier-2 cities and small firms (75%).
• The most sought-after areas for skill development include:
   
  • Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
  • Software Development
  • Cybersecurity
     

Interestingly, there is a shift in preference toward shorter certificate programs rather than pursuing traditional Master’s degrees. This trend reflects the desire for cost-effective, practical learning that can be immediately applied on the job.

Drivers and Barriers in Upskilling
Motivations for upskilling center on career advancement:

• 23% of professionals upskill to achieve financial growth.
• 15% aim for promotions.
   

Yet, significant barriers remain:

• 37% cite lack of time due to current work demands.
• Women face additional challenges, with 25% identifying family responsibilities as a hurdle, compared to 20% of men.
• Early-career professionals struggle with the affordability of courses (8%).
   

Conclusion: A Workforce Embracing Change and Growth
The Great Learning Upskilling Trends Report 2025–26 paints a picture of an Indian workforce that is increasingly optimistic about technological change, particularly AI, while valuing work-life balance and job security. Despite uncertainties from global trade and policy issues, professionals are motivated to pursue new opportunities and invest in skill development, especially in high-demand technology domains.

MBA and BCom graduates’ positive outlook on AI suggests a readiness to adapt and leverage new technologies in business and finance sectors, while BTech graduates’ cautious stance highlights ongoing challenges in the tech job market.

Ultimately, the report underscores that continuous learning and adaptability are becoming non-negotiable in today’s fast-evolving career landscape—professionals who embrace these will likely thrive in the years ahead.