Imperial vs Durham vs Birmingham vs Edinburgh Online MBA

Vojtonus

2 4

Posted Jun 06, 2023 17:27

Hello everyone,

I'm seeking your advice and suggestions regarding my choice of business school to pursue an Online MBA. Here's a brief overview of my background and the offers I have received:

Background:
- Currently working as a Supply Chain Manager in UK based engineering company, being responsible for international supply chain development at the business.
- Previously employed as a Mechanical Engineer.
- Seeking career progression in the technology sector, with more responsibilities and challenging roles like Chief Operations Officer.
- Successfully developed a corporate strategy for our division in India, and I am currently involved in developing and optimising the supply chain in my current workplace.

School Offers:
1. Imperial College Business School: Offer received; scholarship received.
2. Durham University Business School: Offer received; awaiting scholarship information.
3. Birmingham Business School: Offer received.
4. University of Edinburgh Business School: Offer received.

I am particularly interested in pursuing an Online MBA that aligns with my career goals and provides a strong foundation in business and leadership skills, especially concerning the technology/engineering sector. I am considering factors such as the institution's reputation, curriculum flexibility, networking opportunities, and career support services.

I kindly request your recommendations and any personal insights you may have regarding these programs or institutions. Your guidance will greatly assist me in making an informed decision.

Thank you all for your time and input.

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Duncan

14.013 15.475

Posted Jun 06, 2023 21:30

Why limit yourself to an online MBA?

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Vojtonus

2 4

Posted Jun 06, 2023 21:40

Why limit yourself to an online MBA?

I should explain in my original post.
I wish I could take a full-time MBA, but due to work and family commitments, it would be tough for me to take a break from work for a year with two children under 2yo without family support in the UK (I was born in Poland). I think it is the only but very significant reason for me.

[quote]Why limit yourself to an online MBA? [/quote] I should explain in my original post. I wish I could take a full-time MBA, but due to work and family commitments, it would be tough for me to take a break from work for a year with two children under 2yo without family support in the UK (I was born in Poland). I think it is the only but very significant reason for me.

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StuartHE

1.200 720

Posted Jun 06, 2023 22:46

Why not take a part-time or executive MBA on campus, since those generally offer better networking and are more respected?

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aslamo

720 219

Posted Jun 06, 2023 23:52

Why limit yourself to an online MBA?

I should explain in my original post.
I wish I could take a full-time MBA, but due to work and family commitments, it would be tough for me to take a break from work for a year with two children under 2yo without family support in the UK (I was born in Poland). I think it is the only but very significant reason for me.

Don't underestimate how demanding combining a course (even part time) with bringing up a family can be. I did it when my kids were 10 and 14 and that was hard enough!

[quote][quote]Why limit yourself to an online MBA? [/quote] I should explain in my original post. I wish I could take a full-time MBA, but due to work and family commitments, it would be tough for me to take a break from work for a year with two children under 2yo without family support in the UK (I was born in Poland). I think it is the only but very significant reason for me. [/quote] Don't underestimate how demanding combining a course (even part time) with bringing up a family can be. I did it when my kids were 10 and 14 and that was hard enough!

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Vojtonus

2 4

Posted Jun 06, 2023 23:52

Why not take a part-time or executive MBA on campus, since those generally offer better networking and are more respected?

I don't meet the experience criteria for many EMBA courses. I have applied to some, but I still await decisions.

I have chosen Imperial and Durham specifically because they have the option to attend some electives on campus.

[quote]Why not take a part-time or executive MBA on campus, since those generally offer better networking and are more respected?  [/quote] I don't meet the experience criteria for many EMBA courses. I have applied to some, but I still await decisions.  I have chosen Imperial and Durham specifically because they have the option to attend some electives on campus.

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Duncan

14.013 15.475

Posted Jun 07, 2023 08:42

The Manchester Global MBA is an option. Warwick and Henley also have face to face elements.

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Vojtonus

2 4

Posted Jun 07, 2023 09:11

The Manchester Global MBA is an option. Warwick and Henley also have face to face elements.

I considered Manchester, but I don't have GMAT at the moment.

I am still considering WBS, but I haven't applied yet. I undertook a short leadership course (4 weekends) about two years ago. Is it stronger than ICBS for technology management?

I have never considered Henley, should I? If so, why?

[quote]The Manchester Global MBA is an option. Warwick and Henley also have face to face elements.   [/quote] I considered Manchester, but I don't have GMAT at the moment. I am still considering WBS, but I haven't applied yet. I undertook a short leadership course (4 weekends) about two years ago. Is it stronger than ICBS for technology management? I have never considered Henley, should I? If so, why?

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StuartHE

1.200 720

Posted Jun 07, 2023 09:22

Warwick, Henley and Manchester are long-established massive, full-service, business schools. They are probably very good at every topic. They key issue for you, however, is really which of these schools will have the best alumni network for you. ICBS has a much smaller scale. See the post on my profile page about using LinkedIn.

Manchester and Cranfield have their own admissions tests, similar to the GMAT in content, but easier to schedule and of course you don't have to pay the GMAC for them.

Warwick, Henley and Manchester are long-established massive, full-service, business schools. They are probably very good at every topic. They key issue for you, however, is really which of these schools will have the best alumni network for you. ICBS has a much smaller scale. See the post on my profile page about using LinkedIn.  Manchester and Cranfield have their own admissions tests, similar to the GMAT in content, but easier to schedule and of course you don't have to pay the GMAC for them.

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