Does the University make a difference?

ftypejord

1 1

Posted Jan 22, 2025 17:18

Hi All,

I am currently finalising my MBA Programme choice; I'm self funding my qualification and have saved c£12.5K towards the fees - I will be undertaking the part-time online course to coincide with my role.

I have narrowed my selection down to the following 3:

1. University of Hull (Dual Accredited) £12.5K Approx Fees
2. Liverpool University £20K Approx Fees
3. Birmingham University £26K Approx Fees

Liverpool and Birmingham rank reasonable well across a number of different measures (FT etc) and our Triple accredited whereas Hull is dual accredited as does not feature in the FT rank for example.

I will not be applying for roles at top consulting or accounting firms nor FTSE 100. I primarily operate as a Senior Director in private owned business sub £500m and therefore I do not see that which University I undertake making much of a difference just that having the MBA will be a big benefit.

Am I wrong? Will undertaking a dual accredited MBA rather than Triple hurt my long-term career aspirations?

I do not want to burden myself with a PGL if there is a minute benefit. Will be glad of your thoughts,

Thank you

quote

Duncan

1.173 1.016

Posted Jan 23, 2025 22:11

Based on your career goals working in privately-owned mid-sized businesses, the difference between dual and triple accreditation is less critical than for someone targeting major consulting firms or FTSE 100 companies.

Let me analyze this through several key factors:

Cost vs. Value
-- Hull at £12.5K represents your full savings amount
-- Liverpool requires an additional £7.5K investment
-- Birmingham demands more than double your current savings

Career Impact for Your Goals
-- For senior roles in private businesses under £500M, practical management skills and business acumen matter more than institutional prestige
-- Your existing experience as a Senior Director carries more weight than school brand for your target roles
-- The MBA credential itself demonstrates commitment to professional development, regardless of accreditation level

Accreditation Considerations
-- Dual accreditation (AACSB and AMBA) still represents strong quality assurance
-- The third accreditation (EQUIS) adds marginal value for your specific career path
-- The cost premium for triple accreditation may not generate sufficient return given your goals

My recommendation: Hull appears to be the most pragmatic choice given:
-- It fits within your current savings
-- Provides sufficient academic credibility for your career goals
-- Allows you to gain MBA benefits without taking on debt

That said, I'd encourage you to:
-- Research employment outcomes specifically for part-time online students
-- Connect with alumni working in similar sized private companies
-- Consider the strength of each school's network in your target industry/region

The key is matching the investment to your specific career objectives rather than pursuing prestige that may not deliver practical value in your chosen path.