Research MBA Programs

Does anyone have feedback on whether it's better to target a local EMBA program where you can be on campus more often, versus one where you need to travel to? Looking at NYC area versus Northeast (Boston/Philly).

The choice of nearby or faraway EMBA depend on what your priorities are.If the local EMBA program fulfills your needs/ interests, why would you take the trouble of traveling ? No one can advise you about this choice without looking at your profile or goals?

Babson College has one of the best entrepreneurship programs in the U.S. and is top-ranked in the northeast region. It is one of the best MBA programs in Boston, if you are still considering going to school in Boston.

While being more often in campus has its advantages, some reasons beyond this too should influence your choice of an EMBA program. They are:

1. EMBA Ranking: More than local or travel, the reputation of the EMBA course you choose is more important. Some reputed EMBA in these areas include New York Stern 7 Columbia Business School in NYC, Wharton in Philly, and Harvard (PLD) in Boston. Of these, Wharton leads the brigade; Harvard's Program for Leadership Development (PLD) is not an EMBA program but enjoys high corporate respect, while Columbia & NYU are neck to neck in the next slab.

2. Professional Schedule: EMBA is a part-time program with weekend classes held once or twice a month. Get the program calendar for the course you are targeting. Accordingly see how and what your professional schedule allows. If you have a better option far off, but your professional engagements cannot accommodate the travel, then prefer a local EMBA program where you can attend the classes regularly.

3. Cost: This is as important. You need to see the finances. Beyond the program fee, traveling sure is an additional expense.