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Executive MBA or not?

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Executive MBA or not?

by Smallz » Mon Aug 27, 2007 1:11 pm
I have a question regarding attending an executive MBA program. I am working at a company that I really like and could see myself staying with long term. I don't necessarily love my job, but there will be a lot of opportunities for growth in the future. I don't know if I'd be better off going to a good executive program or quitting to go to a full-time program.

They've really been pushing people to get there MBA's, so a lot go to local not-so-great programs. They graduate and continue on as if nothing happened. Whereas, they hired two guys from Arizona State in my department and think they are geniuses, when really they aren't much smarter than myself.

So, if I could get into a great executive program like the Duke cross continent program, do you think that would get me ahead and some recognition as if coming from a full-time program? Or, would I be better of quitting, getting my degree, and getting hired back on after my schooling? I don't have a ton of work experience yet; probably 3 years by the time I want to start. What are your thoughts on executive programs and my position? Thanks!
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by beny » Mon Aug 27, 2007 2:50 pm
If you only have 3 years WE, you shouldn't even be considering EMBA programs... They are for older folk with much more WE.
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by Smallz » Tue Aug 28, 2007 6:11 am
Actually the Duke Cross Continent EMBA is a program that they take younger applicants; they require three years with an average of five I think. So yes, I am considering it.
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by Amy » Tue Aug 28, 2007 9:04 am
Hi Smallz,

At your age, I would strongly consider a full time program - especially if you don't love your job. Part time programs are great for people who are on a strong career trajectory they don't want to interrupt, people who are planning to stay in their job and love it, and people who are older and therefore unlikely to enjoy the social life of a bunch of 27 year olds. I would think about the following factors in deciding what to do:

Financial: If work pays for your part time MBA that saves you money. On the other hand, they are likely paying the new MBA full time grads more than they will pay you. It may be worth doing a quick cost-benefit analysis on that. Keep in mind you lose two years of salary during a full time program.

Quality of program: To keep working in your current job, name recognition of the program doesn't matter. They just want you to have an MBA. This is unlikely to be the last place you work in your life, however, and name recognition may matter the next time you look for a job.

Alumni network: There are great alumni networks in both types of programs, but you are likely to form closer relationships with people around your age that you are seeing 24/7 over two years than you will with people you see on the weekends. I would speak to grads from both versions of the programs to see what they say about their networks from b-school.

Time management: working and attending school is not easy. Balancing the conflicting demands is a balancing act, and you should consider whether your current job offers enough flexibility to allow you to really take advantage of school and do your best work. If academics are really important to you, and you want to learn as much as you can - it might be smarter to really devote yourself to school.

Social: If you are married with kids, a part time program can be great because you likely need the money, and you won't interrupt your family's life. If you are single and social and you are working full time and attending school part time, your social life will certainly suffer.

Good luck!

Amy
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by Smallz » Tue Aug 28, 2007 11:05 am
Thanks Amy.

And its not that I don't like my job; it's just not something I see myself in for the rest of my career. I just see it as a starting point. Although, I have been given some great opportunities, like being the lead of a supply chain team after only working here 6 months. And we will report savings of over a million dollars this year.

Plus, I can see myself working for this company for most of my career as they are a defense company and have a huge attrition rate over the next ten years.

So, if I did go back full-time, I would probably try to come back here afterwards.
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by Amy » Tue Aug 28, 2007 3:19 pm
Hi Smallz,

Have you tried discussing this with your boss? If they want to retain you, they may be willing to give you the same respect they would to a full time grad if you do the part time program and stay there.

Good luck!

Amy
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by Dan_@_DukeEMBA » Tue Sep 09, 2008 8:15 am
Hello Smallz,

This is Dan from Duke. If you feel that you want to stay in the same industry (and especially the same company), the Cross Continent program might be a good fit. We have seen a number of people from the defense sector move from functional positions to management during the program. There are several people from Lockheed Martin in the current class.

I'd recommend writing to Heather at [email protected] to set up a time to speak about your profile and the program.

Also, Duke will be announcing details of its global expansion on Sept. 15, and it will have exciting ramifications for the Cross Continent program in particular.
https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/globalwebcast/

Best regards,

Dan
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