After I complete my MS, should I go for an MBA (WGU) or just focus on certifications?
aspiringsoul
Member Posts: 314
Well guys, this post is probably a bit too early, but I should expect to complete the MS:ISA program at WGU by September of 2016.
I like to have a 5 year game plan...and I'm struggling to make a decision on if I should go back to school for an MBA, or if I should just focus on certifications.
Where I am now: Technology Consultant
Where I want to be: Information Security Officer, IT Manager, Network Security Manager
My goal is to earn the CISSP after I complete the program at WGU (and if I have yet to obtain it at the time, the VCP5-DCV).
The way I see it, I have three options after obtaining the CISSP.
1.) Go back to WGU for their MBA: IT Management program. I really like the competency based approach and how I have the ability to set my own goals and deadlines.
2.) Take the GMAT, go to a more reputable AACSB accredited school for an MBA (more than likely Strategic Management and not pertaining to IT). This would be more difficult that WGU since I would have deadlines to meet, but it would offer networking opportunities not available to me at WGU. It would also be more expensive.
3.) Focus on certifications relevant to my career (Security certifications, ITIL, Microsoft, Cisco, VMWare)
The way I see it, there is an opportunity cost if I spend two years learning about Business instead of learning about technology (since it's evolving so rapidly), although it might be more beneficial to my career by having an MBA as one of my accolades.
Thoughts?
Thanks!
I like to have a 5 year game plan...and I'm struggling to make a decision on if I should go back to school for an MBA, or if I should just focus on certifications.
Where I am now: Technology Consultant
Where I want to be: Information Security Officer, IT Manager, Network Security Manager
My goal is to earn the CISSP after I complete the program at WGU (and if I have yet to obtain it at the time, the VCP5-DCV).
The way I see it, I have three options after obtaining the CISSP.
1.) Go back to WGU for their MBA: IT Management program. I really like the competency based approach and how I have the ability to set my own goals and deadlines.
2.) Take the GMAT, go to a more reputable AACSB accredited school for an MBA (more than likely Strategic Management and not pertaining to IT). This would be more difficult that WGU since I would have deadlines to meet, but it would offer networking opportunities not available to me at WGU. It would also be more expensive.
3.) Focus on certifications relevant to my career (Security certifications, ITIL, Microsoft, Cisco, VMWare)
The way I see it, there is an opportunity cost if I spend two years learning about Business instead of learning about technology (since it's evolving so rapidly), although it might be more beneficial to my career by having an MBA as one of my accolades.
Thoughts?
Thanks!
Education: MS-Information Security and Assurance from Western Governors University, BS-Business Information Systems from Indiana Wesleyan University, AAS-Computer Network Systems - ITT Tech,
Comments
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aspiringsoul
Member Posts: 314
4 & 1/2 years as a Network Admin. 1 year as a Technology Consultant. 3 months Geek Squad and 3 Months Helpdesk Remote Support.Education: MS-Information Security and Assurance from Western Governors University, BS-Business Information Systems from Indiana Wesleyan University, AAS-Computer Network Systems - ITT Tech,
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ajs1976
Member Posts: 1,945 ■■■■□□□□□□
For option 2, do you have the prereqs for an MBA? Courses in Economics, Accounting, Finance, Management, etc.Andy
2020 Goals: 0 of 2 courses complete, 0 of 2 exams complete -
aspiringsoul
Member Posts: 314
I did have a project management course and an Accounting for Managers course as part of my BS degree, although I'm not sure if it would meet the requirement for AACSB programs, since my school was not AACSB accredited (although they ARE regionally accredited).
If I do an MBA at all, I'm really leaning toward WGU, because it would be so much more convenient, and cheaper. I would probably consider Morehead State University for the MBA if I decide to go for a AACSB program.Education: MS-Information Security and Assurance from Western Governors University, BS-Business Information Systems from Indiana Wesleyan University, AAS-Computer Network Systems - ITT Tech,
