A reader asks an interesting question regarding choosing a school for the MBA program. In summary our reader has a technical (engineering) background and wants to "excel in product management of hi-tech products ... and eventually head a marketing department." The reader has a specific need for more training in graphics, layout and general business. In addition, it is noted that he has access to several MBA programs that are available in a major metropolitan area.
My comments:
First, let me tell you that as recruiters we rarely have a client specify that the candidates we recruit for them must have an advanced degree. I don't recall ever having a client ask to see candidates from a specific college or university either. My personal observation is that having or not having an advanced degree may be considered when promotion time comes but it plays a very minor role when compared to a hands-on track record of successful performance. However, even having said all that I must say that I am a very strong advocate of getting all the education we can. Our education helps us get started in our careers and it provides certain basic tools we continually use to achieve our goals. An MBA could get you some interviews that you may not otherwise have gotten; an MBA from a nationally known program may open even more doors. Your performance after you get in the door is up to you. Hopefully some of the basics that you learned getting the education will give you tools to help get the job done better.
I suggest that our reader define the skills desired to make the career transition he desires and go with the MBA program that best supplies education in those areas. Go for content first. If two schools have comparable programs, then try for the one with the most name recognition if that's something you want. How do I explain the success of the big name programs and their graduates if the name of the institution isn't so very important? Certainly, high profile MBA programs have a well-educated faculty along with a tried and true formula. However, they also have the luxury of accepting only the highest scoring applicants who have demonstrated a variety of early successes. Their entering students are already high achievers and their education gives them even more tools to continue on that path.
RELATED LINKS
Network World on Careers: Education and certification inquiries
Network World, 9/22/98
Management Strategies: This is not your father's MBA
Network World, 2/2/98
Network World's online archive of Fusion Focus newsletters on Careers.
