Which to potential employers hold in higher regard, the degree or the institution itself?

Question

I'm almost done getting a Master's in Organizational Development from a small, private university in Kansas City. I got my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Communications (double major) from another small, private college.

I know the most beneficial way to go would be to get degrees from prestigious and recognizable institutions. Will potential employers take my degrees into consideration, or will they dismiss them because I didn't get them through prestigious universities?

Answer 1

I have heard of some companies only wanting people from certain schools. This is particularlly true of design schools. However, if the program you're in is considered really good, that will be on your side.

I would still have to say that most companies look at the degree instead of the school so you should be safe. If a company dismisses you because of the school, you don't want to work there anyway b/c that's pretty shallow. It shows you they care about looks and not the talent.

Answer 2

The degree is manditory. A prestigious school will help you get the interview.

Basically the interview is the most important.

I work in high tech in the Boston area, I've interviewed MIT graduates who I question if they really went to school there? Lights were on, nobody was home.

I went to a rinky dinky little school myself.

Answer 3

It depends on the employer. Also, small regional schools sometimes have excellent reputations in their own region, but not nationally, so sometimes you might be fine with a "no-name" university if you want to stay in the same geographic area where you studied.

Answer 4

the degree

Answer 5

The degree and how you use it.