Expert Chat with RSM Erasmus University

<p>A: I don't think these two things are mutually exclusive. International students do both Executive and full-time MBA programs. If you seek career progression that is international in scope, I recommend seeking an internationally focused MBA program. RSM certainly is. The full-time international MBA program is ideal for those who wish to take a break in their early professional career, focus on leadership and key business skills and knowledge, re-insert into the professional arena at a higher level of responsibility and often, undergo a change in sector and function. Our <strong>Executive MBAs</strong> are required to be employed during their MBA programs. They are usually not attempting to make a career move outside of their current company. The focus on this program is for leadership and core business skills to enhance their job prospects internally.</p>

<p>A:  Yes, all this can be a bit confusing. Executive refers to a particular level of managerial/professional experience, which composes the group of MBA participants. Self-study differs from place to place, but in short, sounds modular and allows you great flexibility in your study pace. Some of them may even be online. Some Executive programs may be offered in this format. Ours is a part-time program offered on Friday/Saturdays every two weeks.</p>

<p>A:  Clearly women face many issues when choosing careers, children and doing an MBA. This happens however for both those at executive level and those undertaking a full-time MBA. I think the key thing here is to find a program, at your level, which is willing to provide you with either a flexible schedule or, at least, a schedule which permits you to manage everything. Naturally, having a supporting partner willing to pitch in while you are doing your MBA is ideal! I do have quite a few working mothers who undertake our Executive MBA program. However, they have to work as hard as the other EMBA participants. We can boast many success stories here. If you can afford the opportunity cost, full-time programs often give you a bit more personal time to deal with external issues.</p>

<p>A:  I think that an Executive MBA would be essential in helping you to increase both your confidence to network and your personal network. Our Executive MBA Program also looks at new online ways to increase your networks. At any level of an MBA, networking is key to growth and progress. In an Executive MBA, it is absolutely the case. I say an EMBA is probably the right way to go for you.</p>

<p>A: Better than a book, why not take the time to speak with MBA programs and find out more about their offers. Many of us will put you in contact with current participants and alumni who will, I assure you, give you both the costs and the benefits of the MBA program. Go directly to the institutions and don't rely on second-hand information. I worry that you feel you will be "fleeced" by education counsellors. Ugh. I suppose this is possible. However, please know that no one gets into a top MBA by accident. It is the result of much interaction and mutual understanding. We often work for more than two years with candidates while they search for the right MBA for themselves. Best to go with an MBA which is willing to listen to you and that helps counsel and guide you in your decision. Of course, you will have to be very critical. You are still quite young and have lots of time to consider your choices. If I can help in this process, please let me know. Can you list a few priorities and begin to filter out programs (strength in Finance; geographical location; proximity to your future job location; International focus ) I'm sure you'll see a lot of schools drop by the way side as soon as you consider your MBA priorities.</p>

<p>A: In general, yes. This would be a good age to undertake a full-time MBA program. At 30 you are positioned to get the most out of this experience personally and professionally.</p>

<p>A: Naturally, institutions will say this. How true is it? I think this can only really be answered by the corporate sector. Different companies and organizations value the MBA degree differently. I recommend looking at the output end of the MBA experience...speak with colleagues, HR directors and alumni who can give you a clearer idea of how the various MBA degrees are valued. We do not offer distance learning at RSM.</p>

<p>A: A great place to start would be QS Search and Scorecard. This wonderful online tool will permit you to search quite effectively and efficiently to narrow down the many institutions that are specialized in Finance. I have no doubt you will find RSM on that list.</p>