Advice on Part Time Schools

[aatech]

Hello Stacy,

I am in Miami and working for a good company. At this time I am withdrawing six digit salary (lower side). I have almost 11 years of IT background with experience in project management to resource management.

Now, I am at a stage where I feel an MBA will be beneficial for my career and it can give me a push towards higher management. However, because of other liabilities I cannot pursue full time MBA. I am inclinded towards part time/executive MBA programme. Kellogs has an extension center in Miami but the fees is definitely beyond my reach. Can you please

1. Suggest few good schools/MBA programme here.
2. Any other options that I should look for (like internet MBA) from some other renowned school.
3. In your opinion, from career advancement point of view - how much return should I expect from such programmes? Will it really help me in moving towards higher management and earn higher than what I am getting now.

Looking forward to hear from you.

AATECH

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear aatech:

The MBA degree is a versatile, graduate, professional degree that allows folks many advantages. Most folks get the MBA to either change careers into a business/management track or to gain business skills to advance in their current career path to the executive ranks. If either of those scenarios applies to you, then the MBA might be a good option.

With 11 years of experience and at your current salary level, it is unclear how much impact the MBA will have in the short-term. However, it could be helpful to you for long-term salary potential and career opportunities. With many technical career tracks, there is a point where you "top out" meaning there is limited upward mobility in terms of positions and salary. The MBA would provide you knowledge and skills to transition to a new managerial track that has a greater upward mobility.

As for schools in your area, that is something you should research to see what program would be the best fit for you and your schedule. Miami has several great satellite programs from top MBA programs. Personally, I think the classroom experience is an important component of any MBA program so I tend to not recommend any online options. But there are some good online options out there, including Indiana University, and some programs designed for folks to travel in for the weekend, like Duke University.

Good luck,
Lisa

[aatech]

Dear Lisa,

Thanks a ton for the response.

I have tried to evaluate the part time programmes available in this area and considering

1. Univ of Florida Professional MBA (sattelite program) - Fall 2008
2. Univ of Miami, Executive MBA - Jan 2009

I am not able to decide which one is better. Would you, by any chance, have any idea which programme
is better? Just thought of taking an independent opinion.

Appreciate your help.

Thanks and Regards,
aatech

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear aatech:

I am not familiar enough with either program to really make a determination on which is better. I encourage you to visit both, attend a class, and then determine which you feel is the best choice for you.

Regards,
Lisa