MS in Engineering Management

[rockthegmat11]

Hey,

How would an engineering management (Masters) degree affect my chances of getting admitted to a top MBA program in the future (3 years from now)? A little bit about me ... I have a BSEE/MSEE degree (Electrical Engineering) with Honors. I took the GMAT and already scored over 700. I'm planning to take it again to break 750 (personal goal). My manager is encouraging me to get an MS in Engineering Management (because I told him I have future MBA plans).
I know some schools, like NYU and Dartmouth, don't accept students with an MBA equivalent degree. Would MS in EGMT be considered an equivalent degree? Or would it strengthen my application if I can maintain a pretty high GPA, and participate actively in the community in the meantime. Please let me know. Thanks.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear rockthegmat11,

The MS in Engineering Management is not equivalent to an MBA, so there would not be a concern there. Having another master's degree is neither an advantage nor disadvantage in the MBA admissions evaluation; it is simply another data point that can demonstrate ability. What will be important is for you to explain your rationale in getting the MS degree and then deciding to pursue an MBA in addition to that degree.

Good luck,
Lisa