Is obtaining a second MBA make sense?

Good day everyone, thanks for taking the time to read my post. I know this question was answered before but I can't seem to find the topic. I would truly appreciate if you could share your advice to help me put something in perspective.

Does it really make sense to get another MBA? As you see I went to AIU to obtain a management degree but I'm not quite sure if the degree from that school has served me well. Especially being that the school is "for profit." I'm also not sure how to get into managerial positions with it because I have no business related experience. Every time I try, I have to possess some sort of experience.

I've resorted to the teaching profession on a private school/substitute teacher level because of this. (Not that teaching is a bad profession, I love it and find it emotional rewarding -- but I would really like to do something practical by having some corporate experience with my degrees)

I was thinking of obtaining an MBA in finance from a reputable B&M that is AACSB accredited. I'd try to do everything I could to get in a top notch school. I'm not sure if that is the right think to do because I'm already in debt from the first MBA that I obtained. But if it can gain employers attention, I don't mind spending the extra bucks. I know that some MBA programs require business experience to attend those schools. But wouldn't the first MBA I obtained give me a edge or no? (Perhaps it is just wishful thinking on my part)

Please tell me anything you think, I'd appreciate it.

 

First, I am not an expert and this is only my opinion.

I would not think a second MBA will help much. I think an AACSB accredited MBA would only serve you better if you want to teach at a university.

Most companies do not know the difference between AACSB accredited and non-AACSB accredited schools. I think some companies know about regional accreditation, but some do not even understand accreditiation.

If you need to present experience, why don't you do some volunteer work? Maybe look into a B&M grad certificate program that provides an opportunity to get some hands-on.

I know several local MBA programs requires the student to work with non-profit companies to write a business plan, help with finances, etc. Maybe a certificate can offer the same experience.

 

Hi,

One of the problems of DL MBAs is that you dont get to network with people and get that part time management job that can lead you to something permanent. I also advice against general management MBAs since entry level positions opportunities tend to be more technical as accounting, finance and IT. Since you have an MBA, my advice is to look into Universities that offer Post MBA programs, a Post MBA is normally 4 or 5 courses in a specialization area like finance. This way, you would not need to complete another MBA program and the employer will look at the Post-MBA as a natural progression to your MBA.

Algosy offers such a program but it is not AACSB.

 

That, for the most part, is indeed a very interesting question!

I can understand your concern, but having multiple degrees with a common name (MBA) would be a bit "wierd" in the eyes of whoever sees your business card (primarily because this approach is every bit as unorthodox as getting an online degree ten years ago - even though such opportunities existed).

As pointed out by others, I too would suggest (and I would do that myself if I ever felt the need) is to get some sort of a graduate certificate in the specialization of your choice (such as strategic management, or finance or project management etc) from the university you have in mind.

That was my two cents worth

regards,
Mahmood

 

Unless you plan to go to a "name" program (Duke, Harvard, Indiana, or such) I think you will be in the same position you are in now. Good education, but no experience. Instead of spending the time and money, try to get the experience, either by taking less money or getting a part time mangement job with a volunteer organization.

If you think you can not afford to take a job for less money, look at it this way, the lowest cost AACSB program is around $8,000 plus books and incidentals (say $10,000 total not including your time). It will take a minimum of 2 years. Can you get a starting job by lowering your salary requirements by $5,000/year?

 

I am pursuing a second MBA for some of the reasons you state but my first had a concentration in Project Management and my second has a concentration in IS. I wanted the MBA/IS to tie into my PhD work.

Having said that, depending on what direction your talents or aspirations take you a MA/MS in say MIS, HR, Finance, Accounting, etc... can lend some weight to your resume.

I would also make the suggestion that rather than being concerned about accreditation take a look at the favorable schools in the area you wish to live and work since name recognition and reputation can help overcome a lack of experience.

Good Luck,

 

I would say you are better off getting an MS in Finance instead. That or work on getting a CFA / CPA, or some other professional certification.

Very few employers hire MBAs anymore (especially straight into management!) unless it's in an area that you already have experience. If your background is teaching or IT, and want to go into Finance, a second MBA won't help.

 

Plain & Simple

No!!!. Getting a second MBA will not help you!!!

 

Krazymack,

As a fellow AIU alum, I understand what you are talking about. Although my AIU degree has served me well, I think the program's curriculum is too broad. Although a generalized business backround is good in industries like retail (where a shift manager supervises, forecasts inventory, markets products, etc), most companies want somebody with a specialized background. For example, when I applied for a relatively high-paying entry level accounting job right after I earned my bachelor's from AIU, the interviewer told me that they are looking for someone with at least 21 accounting credits. Unfortunately, my AIU degree only yielded me 6 accounting credits.

Although I was disappointed with this setback, it convinced me that if I want to make myself more marketable, I should earn a graduate certificate in a specialized business field--such as accounting. So, for what it's worth, my advice to you is to not waste the money to earn a redundant MBA. Instead, you should listen to the majority of the posters here and pursue a graduate certificate in a specialized field. Also, you might want to pursue such a degree from a "name brand school" such as Villanova, UCLA (extension), or Tulane. I know its shallow, but I really think that a name brand school helps score a few additional points with HR people.

I hope this advice helps! Good luck!

Rob

 

• Quote:
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  You should pursue a graduate certificate in a specialized field instead of getting a second MBA.

Precisely.

 

As a hiring manager for a large firm, here is what I look for in candidates:

1. Personality, demeanor, and attitude
2. Relevant, career oriented, progressive experience
3. Specific education relevant to the position
4. General education and being well rounded

An MBA satisfies #4, another one won’t help much. I would say get some experience and get some relevant education as mentioned above, a Masters Certificate would be a good start.

 

Think about doing something like a MSc in Financial Management from University of London. You get a good name school and a specialist degree to go with your MBA.

I'm not sure it's worth the cost, but it's got to be better than a second MBA.

I also agree that the graduate certificate idea makes a lot of sense.

 

Hi,

My personal opinion would be to work at expanding your network. You can do this by simply taking a few classes, as opposed to getting a second MBA. Taking classes will allow you to network with people in the field (especially if they are evening classes). Also, you will have access to the career center of the University where you are taking classes. Probably the most powerful, and often underused, tool for those with education but no experience is the University Career Center.

If you do go back for a degree, you are better off getting an MS in a specialized field as opposed to another MBA. Masters of Science in Finance, Accounting or Information Technology are available.

Jon

 

One more thought

In addition to what has been said... I'd say if you're interested in getting the employers attention, the name of a reputable university on the resume is also a good idea (not necessarily with a degree)...

Something like a certificate of completion from Harvard University... check this out
http://harvardbusinessonline.hbsp.harvard.edu/b01/en/elearning/elearning_faq.jhtml

Even though I am no expert, (and I'd like to invite Tom Nixon or Dr. Bear to this discussion if I have it wrong,) writing down the name of Harvard on the resume may well have its impact... even when it is for a non-credit endeavor. That's my feeling and if someone considers this a cheap tactic, hey, if it works, it works...

Regards,
Mahmood

 

Wow! I'm so elated about the responses that I received. I thank you all so much for your advice! I truly appreciate it.

The graduate certificate program or obtaining a MS in Finance, Accountant or IT sounds like a better idea than acquiring a second MBA. I am definitely going to go for this! Great ideas everyone! I really value all of your opinions and I'm so grateful for this board.

I also like the idea of going to an evening program where I can network with folks who work in the industry -- and I can go about asking them about positions and whose hiring.

I have another question that I will ask you guys... what about the idea of working through temporary agencies which may lead to permanent work. This way seems like a great way to get your foot in the door -- honing or gaining skills on companies' equipment while adding experience to the pot.
I'm just curious for what your take on this is.

I currently work at two afterschool programs at a private organization and private school. Last year I worked at a parochial school. I still live at home with mom. Although I have my own living quarters in her building. I'm 25 going on 26 soon... I thank her for being this patient with me while I figure out my career goals.

 

Another certificate program you can look at is Stanford University's SCPM (Stanford Certified Project Manager).
Having Stanford name on resume will make a lot of difference.
http://apm.stanford.edu/

 

This may have already been stated, but nevertheless, Like what was mentioned, A MBA certificate would be a good start. May I suggest looking into Tulane University's MBA certificate programs. They have I believe 3 seperate core certificates that can be completed in about 8 weeks each online and are very well recognized in the business field. Part of University Alliance. I tend to get emailed on them about this on occassion.

Again, just another idea.

 

This sounds like an excellent alternative. However, if you do choose to go for a second MBA, pick a named B&M school. I have found that the value of networking with fellow professionals as important as the degree itself (especially in the tech field).

My suggestions if you are in California: Santa Clara University or Stanford if you are in the Tech field, Haas (UCB) or Pepperdine if you are going into banking.

Just my two cents - I am 4 classes into my DL program at CSU-DH. Pretty good program although it seems low-tech. Hopefully it gets better.

 

Cool stuff! Are you using skillsoft classroom type thing? Its pretty cool!

Just a question for you guys... if someone does indeed complete a certificate of some sort, how would be written on a busines card for instance...

like we have degrees mentioned as BA, or PhD, how would a certificate be written? For example, a certificate in sales management... would appreciate feedback

 

I've never seen a graduate (or other) certificate on a business card. These are usually seen on a resume. As opposed to a certification (PMP, MCSE, et al) which usually follow your academic info on your business card.

Also, be carefull when looking at certifications, for example the SCPM, as these very often do not carry academic credit and would not help if trying to add graduate credits for teaching.

Regards,