Good question - they're both in that same range - mid-range MBAs in the UK - but I'd say Newcastle would edge out Exeter, in most situations, if only because of the possibility it might get triple accredited.

However - Exeter's One Planet MBA that it's developing in conjunction with the WWF is looking like a really unique corporate social responsibility/sustainability option - and when it launches this fall could make quite a splash.

If you're interested in pursuing a CSR-oriented MBA, then Exeter could be interesting.

I'm looking at the Exeter program, too. Slightly worried that it's too niche and "soft", though. Or at least that it will be perceived that way if there is a panda bear on my diploma.

I dont know about Exeter but I can tell you that Newcastle as a University is much better recognised. It is part of the Russell Group of top researched universities in UK and is consistently considered a 5 star university.

There are a few upcoming rising stars in the UK HE sector such as Warwick or Lancaster but I can honestly tell you Newcastle ' research is a lot stronger though they dont do their most to top in the rankings.

The MBA of neither university is top ranked programme and sometimes they are ranked in top 100 of Economist which means nothing coupled with the fact that I dont know Exeter that well so I refrain from making statements on specific programmes.

Newcastle university business school is also a late comer in the era and though they invested a lot recently you might want to consider some more solidly run programmes.

On the side note, do choose a programme that is deep into an area that you want to go into

Life in Newcastle is great the city is vibrant and lovely small city in the North of England. Exeter is more like a posh village