Which is more useful for getting accepted for MBA? GMAT prep or business courses at community college?

Question

I am interested in getting an MBA, with a concentration in either finance or general business.

My undergraduate degree was in computer science, so I was never required to take a business or even economics class to graduate.

Now I am faced with a decision. Should I take some business classes (or finance, economics, etc) at a local community college before applying to graduate business school, or should i instead invest that time and effort into a GMAT preparation course?

Answer 1

Most master's degrees take one year. The reason why an MBA takes two years is because everyone needs a year to get up to the level of an undergraduate business major. The better B-Schools want a wide variety of students -- and the majority of them have no academic experience in business.

The top B-Schools will be impressed with a high GMAT score -- but not one of them will be impressed with someone taking classes at a community college.

Answer 2

Why don't you just go visit the nearest community college. I assume you mean a two-year junior college. Junior colleges are a good way to start your work toward a four-year degree. Often cheaper, often you can live at home while attending, thus saving money. Usually have flexible schedules, because a lot of the students will also be working at jobs. Sometimes a wide range of ages because adults are going back to work on a degree. Visit a nearby community college. Shop in the book store -- they sell lots more than textbooks, and welcome customers. Have a meal or a snack in the cafeteria, or food service area. Sit around and observe and listen. Many colleges and universities have "satellite" campuses, which may not offer full services, such as a bookstore or cafeteria. Community colleges are a good choice if you are still exploring career options. It's a good idea, however, to take basic course that will transfer, should you decide later to go to a four-year college. Don't take the "fluff" classes.

Answer 3

Community college level coursework after earning your BS will most likely not improve your admissions chances to a good school. However, you can certainly use it to prepare yourself and see if you enjoy the topics. The most important admission factors are your work experience, leadership experience, undergrad GPA and also your GMAT. The only one of those that you can affect in the short term is your GMAT. It's not the only factor, but a great GMAT score will fill your inbox with invitations to apply. Also, you should not view your engineering background as a disadvantage, but accentuate it as an example of your varied skill set.

Answer 4

Business is highering some poets now so go figure. Follow your interests, you'll get better grades. Why not ask the department heads of the schools your interested in. You could even probably phone, at least for an appointment. You might be able to apply directly, depending on their mood.