<p>For last month or so I have been thinking which route to take, part-time MBA or full time MBA. The more I research the more I am leaning towards full time MBA program. My next issue is getting into a good school for full-time MBA. Which brings me to my next question. Lets say if I am not able to get into a top MBA full time program but am able to get into part-time NYU program. Meanwhile I also get into Baruch full time program. In comparison which route should I take. Obviously, NYU is way better than Baruch.</p>
<p>As to my understanding full time is the way to go but the institution that you get the degree from does matter. So what would be more fruitful, part time from a top school or full time from a mediocre school?</p>
<p>I'm doing an evening program from the more presitgous local university mainly because I have a wife and family and work for a company I would like to continue working with once I have my MBA. I opted for my university over other local colleges because they offered use of their career coaching, job boards, etc. whereas other places did not. Additionally, the program is lock step program, meaning that my classmates will always be the same, we take the same classes, will graduate together, etc. Thus, the program is similar to full time in that sense, also because it's a 2 year program... it just doesn't have the summer intership ability (since you only get 1 month off), classes are at night, and you don't have the option to take electives until the program is over (so electives are optional). IMO, you'll still put MBA WHatveruniversity on your resume.</p>
<p>However, if NYU's part time program will keep you out of the job fairs and career coaching offices than I definitly wouldn't do, because then all your networking abilities are smashed.</p>
<p>
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if top rated part time program is considered more valuable than full time mediocre program
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The perception varies from industry to industry. For some schools, there is noticable quality difference between the full time and part time programs. In general, where you get it from matters more than how you get it, particularly for a well-known school like Stern. </p>
<p>If I recall correctly, Stern let part timers full access to career services if they are self sponsored. So that is a huge plus. However, if you are make a big career switch, e.g. into a different function in a new industry, you may find full time program with internship a better route to go.</p>
<p>Stern's rep is stronger than most PT programs partly b/c PT students have the same faculty and curriculum as FT. But as for your choice, it depends somewhat on your goals and your own assessment of whether either program will achieve those goals. Get the catalogs, attend info sessions, and think about the following:</p>
<p>--What industry/job function do you want to work in post-MBA? Baruch prides itself on its finance, accounting, and econ programs and Wall St job placements. Stern is strong in those areas, but less of a one-trick pony -- they also are strong in product development/management, for example.</p>
<p>--Where do you want to work -- in NYC, or elsewhere? Stern's rep is national, Baruch more regional.</p>
<p>--Do you want to switch careers, or advance on the track you're already on? Traditionally a full-time program is designed for career switchers -- quick time to degree, lots of on-campus recruiting. Part-time less so, though Stern does offer some limited support for would-be switchers in the PT program.</p>
<p>--What can you afford? Baruch is in-state tuition -- can't beat that. Stern commands a premium tuition. Will your planned career path justify the student loan payments if you go to Stern?</p>
<p>Good luck. BTW, don't forget to consider Fordham and St. John's -- they're both solid schools w/ a good reputation in NYC, though again, that rep doesn't extend nationally.</p>