Does where you do your EMBA really matter?

9 Comments

1. AnonymousMay 17,2024 at 3:56PM UTC

   I'm in the U.S. My only experience with EMBAs has been when the employer I worked for sponsored hi-po employees (like one every year or something along those lines) and I recall the EMBAs being quite pricey. So with that said, why an EMBA? Why not a regular MBA?

2. KatMay 17,2024 at 6:49PM UTC

   EMBAs are usually part-time /flexible schedule programs designed for working professionals so that it's easier to get a degree in a shorter amount of time.

3. AnonymousMay 17,2024 at 7:10PM UTC

   Ahh...and see what I've found with the programs around here (including a popular one at UM) is that they very rigid, no flexibility and a huge monetary commitment (which, let's be honest, is the case for just about any degree anymore). I've found regular MBAs to be much more flexible especially now that so many are online.

4. AnonymousMay 18,2024 at 4:02AM UTC

   I don't have a degree, so it's an EMBA

5. AnonymousMay 20,2024 at 1:08PM UTC

   Okay - and see, the EMBAs that I am familiar with require a bachelor's degree.

6. KatMay 17,2024 at 7:11PM UTC

   Why do want to get an MBA? Is it for a promotion or is it a credential needed to advance at your company? Usually EMBA programs are funded by your company (which is why they're so pricey), so look into tuition reimbursement/company funding options to pay for it. If you're doing this on your own, find a program that suits your needs. Clearly this one isn't, and you're wasting time and money on this program. There are plenty of MBA/EMBA programs out there, online, in person or hybrid. Look around and see what other options there are that fit your situation better. The right program will meet your needs, both financially, personally and professionally. Good luck.

7. AnonymousMay 18,2024 at 4:11AM UTC

   Thank you so much, I have hit a career plateau, and for my next advancement in any company, it would be a "nice to have", I have managerial experience in 4 different industries in Canada and 2 in the UK.

   With that being said, when I moved to Canada, I was reset back to zero and had to start my career from scratch. I've done that and literally just stuck without job hopping again.

   Now I'm the breadwinner, I would like the flexibility to work on this for the next year so then if an opportunity comes up I'm ready.

   I'm going to do a part time online.

   The company will pay a portion, but no guarantee.

   Thank you so much for your advice ?

8. AnonymousMay 19,2024 at 1:32AM UTC

   I just got an eMBA from Quantic and my employer sponsored it. I am not entirely sure I would do one if I had to pay a large sum for it. It has been useful for me to understand business strategy and my own personal financial decisions better. I have also talked about it a bit at work but I really haven't gotten a huge promotion. But in all cases, no one really cared that much WHERE I got my eMBA. If you are just looking to increase your skills, go the cheaper route. Also, be wary of eMBA programs that are affiliated with a university but actually run through an EdTech company like Coursera or 2U. Some are legit, but some can cause headaches for students and have very low graduation rates.

9. AnonymousMay 20,2024 at 2:28AM UTC

   It can.

   FWIW, the advice I've given myself regarding PhD and MBA searches for my own career. If you're on a specific path where the degree is a training asset (in the field or job you seek) - and you can afford it either on your own, with loans or scholarships, or by employer support, then by all means do it. If, like nowadays, it's a ticket to promotion--really weigh the cost pros and cons. And, if it's easier to just finish OR transfer. Your time is valuable.

   The advice I received (when I was a year in and felt the ROI was nil) was - "some fields and employers care A. that you have the degree and B. where you get it from (and aim for top 30 or top 50 schools--because it's about what you learn, who you meet, networking, recognizable brand, etc.). -----YET, some fields don't care as much so get those letters however you can- if needed. See what jobs offer professional development. There are schools in the top 100 or top 150 (or top 1/3 of whatever degree) that can be more affordable, and give you what you need--and offer scholarships or take transferable credits. In this day in age, financing graduate school is a major factor -esp. for adults.

   Consider how worth it is to speak with folks at your program to try to wiggle out of things (they'll say yes or no). Ask them for their accreditation policy regarding non-credit bearing / micro-credentials. Ask if you can shift your classes around. Ask what's transferrable. Ask about Leave of Absence policy (use it as a pause to find something else). Sometimes E-degrees are meant to be faster or at your own pace or some discount which is why they justify mandatory aspects.

   There are great articles about Top MBA / EMBA under $30k or $20k (avg. MBAs are higher than this, but take a look at rankings, specialty, sponsorship, etc). If you haven't already, ask your employer what their professional development or tuition reimbursement budget is. Some employers have connections with education sites (either schools or online). Make use of those perks.

   Go where you feel your needs are met. Best of luck.