First of all, I found very useful information in this forum, so I just would like to express my gratitude to all the user who are participating in this community.
After spending a considerable amount of hours reading this great forum, and specially the post of Sergei and Leon Foo (links below for further information), I would like to know your thoughts before to take my final decision.
https://find-mba.com/board/distance-learning/online-mba-for-russian-energy-professional-59975
https://find-mba.com/board/distance-learning/100-online-mba-61072
My profile:
- B.Eng (Mech) with 6 years on energy sector. Current position: Project Manager.
- Working in Europe for an US based company.
Why Online:
- I cannot afford stop working, so I am considering only distance learning options, 100% or blended with max 6 travels per year.
- Budget 25K EUR. MBA is self-funded.
Main Goals of my MBA:
- To become eligible for oil and gas companies (BP, Shell, Exxon, Enbridge, TAP, etc)
- Increase earnings
- Maybe move to US, depending on personal situation when completing the MBA.
Where am I right now? The list below has been ranked based on my preferences.
1. BU - Application is currently closed. They will re-open in August for spring 2021 intake. The program is notably more flexible than UIUC and 45 credit hour seems to be achievable working full-time (max of 7 years). Being a new program is not an issue for me, as I received very positive feedback from this university.
2. UIUC - Admitted. I have been in touch with the university and It seems to be an excellent program. However, the program seems to be really demanding, 72 credit hours in a max of 3 years working full-time with a family. I would prefer a shorter program, but UIUC is still my option 2 because of the program quality.
My only concern is regarding the program size, this is massive program, with more than 1500 students.
For further information:
https://find-mba.com/board/general-forum/illinois-vs-boston-university-61756
3. Durham - Admitted. They have a good program, however I am still pending to receive the scholarship decision. Seems that you need to accept or refuse the offer before knowing if you will be awarded with any scholarship...
Preferred schools and programs that are out of my budget:
- Warwick.
- Imperial College.
- Manchester.
- Kellog.
- Kelley.
- Amherst - Isenberg School of Management.
- Vlerick.
Program where I am hesitating:
- RGU - I am not sure about the school reputation compared to the above schools.
Just for other users information, with an unlimited budget Kelley-Manchester program would be my default choice.
Let's open the discussion and many thanks in advance to everyone.