<p>I'm trying to decide between getting an executive certificate or getting an MBA. I'm looking to change careers and get more into finance. I like the short amount of time to get an exective certifcate but question how they are viewed. I am looking at 3: Dartmouth College Online Bridge, UNC Business Essentials, and Cornell University Financial Managment. They all run between $2K-$3k and take about 2 months to 1 year. Is it worth it? Or am I just better off getting an MBA? Keep in mind, I looking to change careers and eventually would like to open my own business.</p>
<p>When you mean finance - do you mean PE, hedge funds, banking, VC? Right now these are incredibly tough to shift into even from elite MBA programs. Its, in my opinion, almost essential to go to one and to do very well to have a shot into high finance as a career changer.</p>
<p>I have a BA in economics and am currently working in accounting. I would like to get into financial analysis or business analysis and eventually open my own business. I question if a MBA is necessary. If I can achieve my goal for fraction of the price, I would rather go that route. But I don’t want to spend $2k - $3k and not have it help me.</p>