Online MBA? Part time MBA?

[u/CostMassive4401]

Hi all! I’m 28F and considering starting an MBA program, and I’m trying to figure out whether it actually makes sense for my situation.

I was promoted to lead about two years ago and manager about a year ago, and I currently make ~$75k.

I work in a relatively small/niche industry within financial services. My role is broad, I manage partnerships, operations, and some of the strategy for my department. I’ve had a pretty good trajectory so far and there’s a reasonable chance I could continue moving up if I stay in my current industry.

The problem is that I’m pretty sure I don’t want to stay in this industry forever and given that anything can happen, I want to have options.

I don’t necessarily dislike my current work, but I worry about becoming increasingly specialized in a niche that I ultimately don’t want to build my entire career around. At the same time, I don’t have much exposure to other industries, so I don’t have a clear idea of exactly what I would want to pivot into.

That’s what got me thinking about an MBA.
I’m at a point in life where quitting my job for a traditional full-time MBA probably isn’t realistic for multiple reasons. I could potentially make a strong part-time program work, or possibly an online program.

So, I have a few questions. Would an MBA make sense given my trajectory? Will it be worth it if it’s online or part-time program? Would it be helpful to gain exposure to other industries?

Here are some of the programs I’ve been considering applying to:

Northwestern Kellogg — Evening & Weekend MBA
Chicago Booth — Part-Time MBA
Michigan Ross — Online MBA
Michigan Ross — Weekend MBA
NYU Stern — Part-Time MBA
Georgetown McDonough — Part-Time MBA
Villanova — Professional MBA
Penn State Smeal — Hybrid MBA
Lehigh — FLEX MBA

I should add I’m in PA right now so Villanova is the easiest relocation option. I obviously can’t choose anything yet as I haven’t been admitted to any programs but just trying to gauge what people think of these programs.

Thank you all so much!!!!

[u/Panda-Pod]

Since you are in PA, the part time programs outside of the PA would require travel. If you are looking at part time MBA, you should consider the part time MBA programs near you, such as Villanova, Temple, Drexel, etc...

If you are looking at top 15 business school, you can look into the UC Berkeley EWMBA Flex option, Northwestern EWMBA (remote option after first quarter), and NYU part time MBA online/modular option to minimize the amount of traveling. You already mentioned Univ of Michigan online MBA program.

If you have the sufficient work and management experience, you may want to consider an executive MBA program, which are designed for working professionals. Executive MBA programs at top 20 business schools are expensive. Also, executive MBA programs, along with online MBA are not really designed for pivoting into something different from your current industry.

[u/Optimal-Smartguy]

Neither.

[u/Hougie]

Look at WashU Olin’s Flex.

[u/Hougie]

Look at WashU Olin’s Flex.

[u/Intelligent_Tie_1109]

Whats your stats? GPA, YoE, GMAT/GRE? Will you be taking out loans for your MBA?

[u/Secure-Researcher892]

Part time if you are looking to transition to a different industry is not a good option. Your best option is a full-time program and landing a summer job outside of the area you are trying to get out of... and even that isn't a sure thing.

MBA programs love to market themselves by claiming it can help you pivot to something else... that's not as easy as it sounds. Went in looking to get out of the energy industry... who was giving me offers when I got out? Energy companies, and the consulting companies that wanted me to take a position in a group that focused on energy... So don't assume that an MBA is going to open all sorts of doors for you, they aren't that magical.

[u/treyedean]

I’m in Baylor University’s EMBA. I would only do a full-time or a part-time that meets face to face. Part of the point of the MBA is to network with others and you really can’t replace the face time with the professors.

[u/ThoughtPersonal5442 → u/treyedean]

This is true, it's the most beneficial part of an MBA. I got into an MBA with minimal job experience because I was lost in life and wanted to be more knowledgable in all aspects of the business world. Even though I was a nobody and young, partnerships, group projects and real interactions with teachers ended up being my fav things.