An MBA or a Masters in Computer Science? Which is better?

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An MBA or a Masters in Computer Science? Which is better?

nrichmond30 weeks ago

Or do I split the difference and go for a tech MBA?

Tags: education, MBA

Topic: IT Management/Strategy

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whynotboth 30 weeks ago

Per my post below: There is ample research - including the articles referenced in prior posts - that show for those who wish to move into / further up the management chain, more technology focused education is not the answer. However, a MBA only deals with part of the question. Yes, a MBA will give you some business acumen, which many technology professionals need. However, what about the technology nuances - and any technology professional or leader knows there are many - that are not addressed with a traditional MBA.

Several sources to consider:

The Professional Development Gap: http://www.cioinsight.com/c/a/Expert-Voices/Why-IT-Gets-No-Respect-158281/

CIO Role Revs Up: http://www.informationweek.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=199501097

Leaders Influence: http://executiveeducation.wharton.upenn.edu/open-enrollment/leadership-d...

Is IT Facing a Leadership Crisis? http://www.cio.com/article/692324

VCU FTEMS: www.business.vcu.edu/ftems.html

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whynotboth 30 weeks ago

Defintely go for the tech MBA, and have I got a great one for you! Check out VCU's "Fast Track" Executive MS-IS. Business and Technology Leadership / Management focused MS Information Systems. Earn your MS-IS degree in just over one year. In Richmond, VA. Learn more at www.ftems.vcu.edu or contact me directly: mecarley@vcu.edu.

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jnaze 30 weeks ago

Network World also has a post on the topic. See:

Should tech pros get an MBA?
IT pros who earn MBA degrees are valued for their hybrid technical-business skills
http://wwww.networkworld.com/news/2011/101311-mba-251946.html

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jimlynch 31 weeks ago

Hi nrichmond,

I think it very much depends on what you like to do. If technical things appeal to you than the masters in computer science is probably a better bet. If not then the MBA might have more appeal (especially if business leadership really interests you).

Here's a column that explores that question:

An MBA or a Master's in Computer Science? It’s your call.
http://www.itworld.com/career/186303/mba-or-masters-computer-science-it-...

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rhames 31 weeks ago

What do you like to do? You could be successful with either degree, but the easiest path to success is to follow your bliss.

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