So I've applied to several MBA programs and currently have been accepted to 1 so far, with the other 3 looking promising.
I've applied to Vanderbilt's Executive MBA, Auburn's Distance MBA, & two other distance programs (one in state and another public school out of state .
Right now MONEY is a major factor (hence why I can't leave work to pursue a full time MBA). I'm recently married and look to start a family in the near future as well. With that in mind...
I was told by a former professor that if I pursued a MBA I should either 1) Attend a Top 25 School (Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Vanderbilt, UNC, etc.) or 2) A school that plays Div I Football. His reasoning (he is an Arkansas alum) is the Top 25 schools brings instant recognition and the Div I football school, while maybe not a Top 25 MBA program, brings a large alumni network (sometimes in addition to a Top 50 or Top 75 MBA program).
So I'm debating. What is the perspective of those on the board? I would prefer to stay in Nashville so that is a factor longevity wise post MBA. I also would like to keep student debt down to a minimum (other 3 programs I can afford at the moment).
Thoughts?
Apply to UTK's executive MBA program. It might not be top 25 but there will be a lot of networking and costs should remain lower.
If admitted to VU, it wouldn't hesitate. 
Originally posted by Vandy Kyle:
Apply to UTK's executive MBA program. It might not be top 25 but there will be a lot of networking and costs should remain lower.
If admitted to VU, it wouldn't hesitate.
Then I'd have to juggle travel to Knoxville. For me Distance is the better option if I don't go to classes in Nashville.
VU's cost is $100,000. That's a huge amount of money for a guy who now has a wife and a mortage payment. The program I have been accepted to is just under $30,000. BIG difference...
Rules, I was married, flat broke, and already had a kid when I quit my job and went to Owen full time. Now, I did get a 50% scholarship, something that is more available for the full time programs.
I borrowed $60K, and my wife had a good job. I now just pay about $400 a month back in very low interest loans for 15 years and make double my former salary. Just thought I'd throw it out there that a full time program isn't as impossible as it seems. The Executive programs are more expensive because they cost more to run and because employers often chip in.
Ultimately, the MBA is a good degree, and if you take the right courses you will learn real skills that will help you get ahead. Plus, it just makes you more promotable. Good luck with your decision.
Brain13,
Thanks for that insight. Right now I cannot afford to quit my day job, so the full time MBA is out for me. I only get so much from my employer and right now I just cannot afford the Executive Program.
Right now it looks like I will be attending Auburn's Distance MBA program.
Yahoo! Sports
