Is Top 15 MBA Worth My Time?

Hello, I thought this would be a good venue to get some feedback about going to get an MBA from ppl that may know better. I am currently a structural engineer with an MS. I have 5+ years or experience in a leadership role designing nuke plants. I make 80-90k/yr. I am considering going to get an MBA to rebrand myself and get away from engineering work and get into management or finance. I would like to hear some opinions about whether pursuing an MBA is worthwhile for someone of my background from both a financial and feasibility standpoint. I am 29 years old, probably would be 31 when I graduated. Thanks for advice.

7 Comments
 

An MBA is a good opportunity to re-brand yourself, especially from a more technical field such as engineering. So sure, a top 15 MBA may be worth your time. As an engineer, your salary isn't going to go up all that fast. However, if you did something like consulting in the energy sector post-MBA, you would likely see a bigger salary, upward mobility, and you would be able to use your past experience.

 

Thanks for the responses.

Earthwalker, are you saying its still worth it but limit to top 7 schools?

Karypto, if you are asking if I will have to go into massive debt, the answer is no. I can pay for most of it.

HG14 - that's refreshing to hear because that's along the lines of what I was thinking. It's good to hear that I may not be totally off the reservation with this idea.

I would love to hear any more input if anyone has any. Thanks for the advice!

 

If you want to go into management of finance, you do not need M7 to successfully transition. And your age won't be a concern for employers. I would say stay in the top 15 range and you will be fine.

 

If you want to do something else other than engineering, say investment banking or consulting, then yeah it's absolutely worth it. Engineers have a pretty low ceiling in terms of salary (I used to be an engineer); you'll make multiples of 80-90k out of a top MBA program (given you go into the roles I mentioned).

Top 15-20 are where I would apply for ROI sake.

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