In Houston, TX - Rice or U of H

LouieTiger · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2008 10:38 am Post subject: In Houston, TX - Rice or U of H

I just scored a 640 GMAT, so I think I can get into either Rice or U of H.

I am a project manager in the construction market (commercial - hospitals, churches, office buildings, etc.) and I will continue to work full time on my projects ($10mm to $30mm each) while going back to school.

U of H's program has focuses in the Oil/Energy and elective classes in project management, negotiations, production management, etc. These classes are directly related to my current career, which I plan on continuing for years to come.

I know Rice University has the 'name', but U of H's part-time program was actually ranked higher by Business Week.

Does anyone have any input they could provide to help me make this decision? I will apply to both and hopefully I will get accepted into both programs so I will have to make this tough decision!!!

Thanks,

Marc

JohnReuwer · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2008 5:06 pm Post subject:

It depends upon what you future goals are. If you plan on staying in your current job and are getting the MBA to reach the next level within your current organization, I don't think name is as important. If you are thinking of entering the job market or switching jobs, then name become a bigger issue.

Also, are you footing the bill yourself? If so, there is a dramatic difference in cost. That is something to consider as well.

Lisa Anderson · Posted: Sun Apr 13, 2008 9:53 am Post subject:

Dear Marc:

I echo John's comments. If you are planning to stay in your current company or industry in Houston, then it really comes down to which program offers what you want. Things you should be thinking about include the curriculum and elective offerings (be sure to find out if the electives of interest are always offered or if there is a possibility it might not be offered), culture of the school, and potential classmates. In addition to the learning, the other benefits of buisness school are the connections you make with classmates, alumni, and faculty/administration.

Both part-time programs are great and will give you the education you want, so you can't make a wrong decision. The question is what you are wanting in terms of the other aspects of the program and structure as those things are quite different between the two.

Best of luck,
Lisa

LouieTiger · Posted: Sun Apr 13, 2008 10:44 am Post subject:

My company is paying for it 100%. I haven't talked to them about the $75K for Rice....I have the $45K for U of H approved already. Truthfully, I was not expecting a 640 GMAT...I was trying for 580-600 range.

My short term goals (5-10 years) are to climb within the company that I work for now. I love where I work and the people I work for/with.

Long-term...I would be willing to make company changes within the same industry...or similiar (developing or Owner Rep. side) and I think the name of Rice is more appealing on a resume.

I think U of H's electives are better for what I do now.

THanks for both of your input!!!