Dear shaselai,
These are all good questions to ask, but really you have to be the one to determine what type of program is best for you. If you really analyze the costs, you might find that it is really not more expensive to go to school full-time. I encourage you to do some research on the differences between a full-time and a part-time program, and then consider those in relation to why you want to go to business school and what your ultimate career goals are.
There are certainly ranked schools that do not have part-time programs. Usually, these schools are not in metro areas, so there is not a market for a part-time program in their cities. That does not mean a school with a strong full-time program, which has a part-time program that is not ranked, is a poor choice for part-time. You need to really look at the rankings and review their methodologies. All of the rankings are flawed and the journals require the programs to meet certain criteria to even be included in the assessment. Thus there will be some great programs that are never ranked (both full and part-time) because they do not meet the journal's criteria.
I would encourage you to do your own research using multiple sources and not use the rankings as a way to make a decision on where to apply. You can use rankings as a way to identify potential programs, but your own research should be what you use in determining where to apply.
Regards,
Lisa
What GPA/GMAT is needed to get into a top 5 school?
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
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Hello!
I am very confused about the benefits of doing an EMBA (1year) vs. regular MBA program. I have been working for 8 years already and have done my post graduation as well. However, I am stuck for career growth and am looking to do an MBA starting 2010 Fall.
I think that an EMBA may be more suitable but please let me know what you think and which are the best schools for this.
Also, could you tell me if my profile works for me and what kind of GMAT scores I can look at for the top 10 programs (Do EMBA ask for lower scores? Do women applicants get extra consideration?).
My profile:-
Work Experience: 8+ years in Strategy and Managament Consulting
Currently working with a big5 consulting firm (completing 3 years).
Post Grad Diploma in Communications from a top school and ranked 1st (won an award).
UG - Mathematics: Bit of a disaster. Did quite poorly and it was a 3 year course but I retook some exams to better my score (making it a 4 year stint) but that only helped marginally. I went to a great school but messed up - just couldn't handle it. :'(
But got in some good extra curriculars and prizes.
School - top of class throughout.
Please help me understand what courses and schools I can aim for. I am also quite keen on entreprenuership courses so I can help run my family business.
many thanks!
moonshine
I am very confused about the benefits of doing an EMBA (1year) vs. regular MBA program. I have been working for 8 years already and have done my post graduation as well. However, I am stuck for career growth and am looking to do an MBA starting 2010 Fall.
I think that an EMBA may be more suitable but please let me know what you think and which are the best schools for this.
Also, could you tell me if my profile works for me and what kind of GMAT scores I can look at for the top 10 programs (Do EMBA ask for lower scores? Do women applicants get extra consideration?).
My profile:-
Work Experience: 8+ years in Strategy and Managament Consulting
Currently working with a big5 consulting firm (completing 3 years).
Post Grad Diploma in Communications from a top school and ranked 1st (won an award).
UG - Mathematics: Bit of a disaster. Did quite poorly and it was a 3 year course but I retook some exams to better my score (making it a 4 year stint) but that only helped marginally. I went to a great school but messed up - just couldn't handle it. :'(
But got in some good extra curriculars and prizes.
School - top of class throughout.
Please help me understand what courses and schools I can aim for. I am also quite keen on entreprenuership courses so I can help run my family business.
many thanks!
moonshine
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
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Dear moonshine,
Since you have at least 8 years of experience, then you would be eligible for many executive programs. I would encourage you to research the differences to see if an executive program might make more sense for your career goals. The basic difference of an executive program from an full-time program is the average work experience in executive programs is in the 12-17 year range and the students in executive programs are working while in school. If you plan to continue in consulting, then an executive program might be a great option for you. If you want to make a career change, then a full-time program might be the better option as it would allow you to focus fully on school and your job search.
Good luck,
Lisa
Since you have at least 8 years of experience, then you would be eligible for many executive programs. I would encourage you to research the differences to see if an executive program might make more sense for your career goals. The basic difference of an executive program from an full-time program is the average work experience in executive programs is in the 12-17 year range and the students in executive programs are working while in school. If you plan to continue in consulting, then an executive program might be a great option for you. If you want to make a career change, then a full-time program might be the better option as it would allow you to focus fully on school and your job search.
Good luck,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for your quick response! I am now a bit confused. I thought the Executive MBA was the 1 year course while regular MBA was 2 years.
From your post I gather the EMBA is not full time?
I would like to do a full time 1 year MBA - actually that's what I'm thinking of. I won't be able to work and study together and I certainly want to switch out of consulting.
Could you tell me which are the best 1 year programs? I thought INSEAD Paris was an EMBA...!
Thanks,
moonshine
Thanks for your quick response! I am now a bit confused. I thought the Executive MBA was the 1 year course while regular MBA was 2 years.
From your post I gather the EMBA is not full time?
I would like to do a full time 1 year MBA - actually that's what I'm thinking of. I won't be able to work and study together and I certainly want to switch out of consulting.
Could you tell me which are the best 1 year programs? I thought INSEAD Paris was an EMBA...!
Thanks,
moonshine
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
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Dear moonshine,
It is possible that INSEAD has a 1-yr program called an executive MBA. Generally speaking, most schools use the term "executive MBA" for programs that target applicants with 10+ years of experience who do the program while working. So, be sure to check on the program details and requirements of any 1-year and/or EMBA program you are considering. Unfortunately, I am not aware of many 1-year full-time programs as they are not as common. Most of these programs in the US are 15-16 months in length and require you to have a bachelor's degree in business. Once again, you need to verify the requirements of any program as there are variances from school to school on how the programs are structured.
Good luck,
Lisa
It is possible that INSEAD has a 1-yr program called an executive MBA. Generally speaking, most schools use the term "executive MBA" for programs that target applicants with 10+ years of experience who do the program while working. So, be sure to check on the program details and requirements of any 1-year and/or EMBA program you are considering. Unfortunately, I am not aware of many 1-year full-time programs as they are not as common. Most of these programs in the US are 15-16 months in length and require you to have a bachelor's degree in business. Once again, you need to verify the requirements of any program as there are variances from school to school on how the programs are structured.
Good luck,
Lisa
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shruti.bittu
- Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
- Posts: 10
- Joined: Fri Jun 19, 2009 10:49 pm
Hi,
I am planning to apply to US B schools for the MBA batch entering in 2010.
I have a query regarding GPA. Could you please clarify it ?
I completed my BTech from India in the year 2007.
I've got my transcripts re-graded by World Education Services (WES) in order to convert my grades to US equivalent GPA.
Will the new grades as per WES' transcripts be accepted by the B Schools ?
Will be really thankful if you could reply.
Thanks.
I am planning to apply to US B schools for the MBA batch entering in 2010.
I have a query regarding GPA. Could you please clarify it ?
I completed my BTech from India in the year 2007.
I've got my transcripts re-graded by World Education Services (WES) in order to convert my grades to US equivalent GPA.
Will the new grades as per WES' transcripts be accepted by the B Schools ?
Will be really thankful if you could reply.
Thanks.
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
- Posts: 3845
- Joined: Wed Feb 06, 2008 8:57 pm
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Dear shruti.bittu,
Yes, most schools will accept a GPA conversion by WES. There might be a school that does not, but that would be quite rare. WES is one of the most trusted credentialing services.
Good luck,
Lisa
Yes, most schools will accept a GPA conversion by WES. There might be a school that does not, but that would be quite rare. WES is one of the most trusted credentialing services.
Good luck,
Lisa
-
shruti.bittu
- Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
- Posts: 10
- Joined: Fri Jun 19, 2009 10:49 pm
Hi Lisa,
I had another of these (stupid?) questions to bug you. I have a PhD from a top 5 university and have been working for over 3 years as a researcher for a big corporation in the tech sector. I was thinking of getting an MBA so that I may be attractive for a managerial kind of role (think product lead, tech strategy, etc.). Do you think it makes sense for me to try for top 5 mba schools. Or is it a waste of time, money and effort? I currently have a decent 6 figure salary.
As for my credentials, my graduate school GPA was 4 while my undergrad was around 3.7. In the practice tests for GMAT, I am scoring around 750. BTW, if it matters, I am just a shade under 30.
thanks,
bovik
I had another of these (stupid?) questions to bug you. I have a PhD from a top 5 university and have been working for over 3 years as a researcher for a big corporation in the tech sector. I was thinking of getting an MBA so that I may be attractive for a managerial kind of role (think product lead, tech strategy, etc.). Do you think it makes sense for me to try for top 5 mba schools. Or is it a waste of time, money and effort? I currently have a decent 6 figure salary.
As for my credentials, my graduate school GPA was 4 while my undergrad was around 3.7. In the practice tests for GMAT, I am scoring around 750. BTW, if it matters, I am just a shade under 30.
thanks,
bovik
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
- Posts: 3845
- Joined: Wed Feb 06, 2008 8:57 pm
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Dear bovik,
I don't think pursuing a MBA is a bad idea based on your desire to move into a management role. I will ask you to consider your goals in relation to what type of MBA program makes the most sense for you. If you want to stay in your current industry but simply move into the management side, then you might consider a part-time program where you will continue to work. This would give you the education you seek and some other resources, but keep you in the field. If you really want to move out of the industry or function, then a full-time program might be a better option as it will allow you to focus on your job search and do an internship. Where you apply is really up to you based on the programs that you feel are the best match. I don't know enough about your profile to comment on your chances, but your GMAT score and work experience are on par for a competitive application to any school. There are so many great programs out there--don't overlook some that make sense for you just because BusinessWeek, US News, Financial Times, etc. does.
Best of luck,
Lisa
I don't think pursuing a MBA is a bad idea based on your desire to move into a management role. I will ask you to consider your goals in relation to what type of MBA program makes the most sense for you. If you want to stay in your current industry but simply move into the management side, then you might consider a part-time program where you will continue to work. This would give you the education you seek and some other resources, but keep you in the field. If you really want to move out of the industry or function, then a full-time program might be a better option as it will allow you to focus on your job search and do an internship. Where you apply is really up to you based on the programs that you feel are the best match. I don't know enough about your profile to comment on your chances, but your GMAT score and work experience are on par for a competitive application to any school. There are so many great programs out there--don't overlook some that make sense for you just because BusinessWeek, US News, Financial Times, etc. does.
Best of luck,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for the quick reply. I very much appreciate it. I had a few more questions for you.
(1) I have taken a few courses in the business school along with other MBA students at my graduate school while finishing my PhD and I performed quite well. Do you think it makes sense to mention this in my application.
(2) Your thoughts about deciding between and full and part time are similar to what has been going on in my mind. And I am not sure which one to pick. With my current profile, I would be labeled as a core technical guy. With a part time mba, will that open up career options. Also, if I get a full time degree, can my phd help me get a (tech) related job or is it like starting from scratch (I would be one of a class of mba grads). Sorry for the rather vague framing of the question.
(3) What are the chances of getting financial aid. Since, I would be losing my salary if I go full time, are there options in form of scholarships that one could get to at least cover part of the tuition or is it mostly loans?
Just some more background: being in a research position, I have gotten some leadership roles putting together small groups together to tackle a direct competitive challenge for my company. But most of these things have been fairly small in scale and impact. This is where I was thinking that an MBA might help me attractive for positions that have bigger say in such matters.
Looking forward to your reply.
bovik
Thanks for the quick reply. I very much appreciate it. I had a few more questions for you.
(1) I have taken a few courses in the business school along with other MBA students at my graduate school while finishing my PhD and I performed quite well. Do you think it makes sense to mention this in my application.
(2) Your thoughts about deciding between and full and part time are similar to what has been going on in my mind. And I am not sure which one to pick. With my current profile, I would be labeled as a core technical guy. With a part time mba, will that open up career options. Also, if I get a full time degree, can my phd help me get a (tech) related job or is it like starting from scratch (I would be one of a class of mba grads). Sorry for the rather vague framing of the question.
(3) What are the chances of getting financial aid. Since, I would be losing my salary if I go full time, are there options in form of scholarships that one could get to at least cover part of the tuition or is it mostly loans?
Just some more background: being in a research position, I have gotten some leadership roles putting together small groups together to tackle a direct competitive challenge for my company. But most of these things have been fairly small in scale and impact. This is where I was thinking that an MBA might help me attractive for positions that have bigger say in such matters.
Looking forward to your reply.
bovik
Hi Lisa,
Just one more thing. In your reply, you mentioned "There are so many great programs out there--don't overlook some that make sense for you just because BusinessWeek, US News, Financial Times, etc. does.". Which programs do you think make sense for me that I might be overlooking?
thanks,
bovik
Just one more thing. In your reply, you mentioned "There are so many great programs out there--don't overlook some that make sense for you just because BusinessWeek, US News, Financial Times, etc. does.". Which programs do you think make sense for me that I might be overlooking?
thanks,
bovik
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
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Dear bovik,
I don't know enough about you or your goals to name programs. My comment is a general one about looking at schools that appear to be a good match for you even if they are not ranked as a top 20 program.
Regards,
Lisa
I don't know enough about you or your goals to name programs. My comment is a general one about looking at schools that appear to be a good match for you even if they are not ranked as a top 20 program.
Regards,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for the quick reply. I very much appreciate it. I had a few more questions for you.
(1) I have taken a few courses in the business school along with other MBA students at my graduate school while finishing my PhD and I performed quite well. Do you think it makes sense to mention this in my application.
(2) Your thoughts about deciding between and full and part time are similar to what has been going on in my mind. And I am not sure which one to pick. With my current profile, I would be labeled as a core technical guy. With a part time mba, will that open up career options. Also, if I get a full time degree, can my phd help me get a (tech) related job or is it like starting from scratch (I would be one of a class of mba grads). Sorry for the rather vague framing of the question.
(3) What are the chances of getting financial aid. Since, I would be losing my salary if I go full time, are there options in form of scholarships that one could get to at least cover part of the tuition or is it mostly loans?
Just some more background: being in a research position, I have gotten some leadership roles putting together small groups together to tackle a direct competitive challenge for my company. But most of these things have been fairly small in scale and impact. This is where I was thinking that an MBA might help me attractive for positions that have bigger say in such matters.
Looking forward to your reply.
bovik
Thanks for the quick reply. I very much appreciate it. I had a few more questions for you.
(1) I have taken a few courses in the business school along with other MBA students at my graduate school while finishing my PhD and I performed quite well. Do you think it makes sense to mention this in my application.
(2) Your thoughts about deciding between and full and part time are similar to what has been going on in my mind. And I am not sure which one to pick. With my current profile, I would be labeled as a core technical guy. With a part time mba, will that open up career options. Also, if I get a full time degree, can my phd help me get a (tech) related job or is it like starting from scratch (I would be one of a class of mba grads). Sorry for the rather vague framing of the question.
(3) What are the chances of getting financial aid. Since, I would be losing my salary if I go full time, are there options in form of scholarships that one could get to at least cover part of the tuition or is it mostly loans?
Just some more background: being in a research position, I have gotten some leadership roles putting together small groups together to tackle a direct competitive challenge for my company. But most of these things have been fairly small in scale and impact. This is where I was thinking that an MBA might help me attractive for positions that have bigger say in such matters.
Looking forward to your reply.
bovik
