The very usage of
the terms American MBA and European MBA can, at times, be misleading as there
are several commonalities in MBA programs across the globe. Yet, there are
broad distinguishing characteristics between the two sets of MBA programs on
the basis of which we can categorise the two models. It is important for you to
understand the key differences carefully in order to make an informed choice
related to your profile and career needs. This becomes especially critical in
the present global economic scenario.
The broad parameters under which distinction can be made are course duration, curriculum, career prospects, international exposure, cost of the program and the criteria for selection followed by the business schools. Below are suggested guidelines that will help you make a choice:
1. Duration - of the program is two years in American schools while it is one year in most European schools. There are clear pros and cons for both. One year program may be too brief for some aspirants to either strengthen their profile or make a major career shift, whereas, for those with substantial work experience, one year may be sufficient to improve skills and broaden horizons. A longer duration also entails a longer break from work in comparison to the limited time spent away from one's career in a shorter time frame.
2. Curriculum – being shorter in duration, the European programs are relatively compressed and do not offer too many electives while the American courses give opportunity to take numerous elective courses as well as exchange programs. The first one is more suitable for students with substantial work experience wanting to give an impetus to their career while the other alternative is appropriate for those seeking an in-depth study in a particular field. The pedagogy in the Europeanmodel is characterised by interaction with the industry while in the American model it is primarily based on case studies.
3. Cost of the program – the difference in investment between European and American business schools is significant. Being of longer duration, the American MBA is more expensive, though, it does offer opportunity to work in the second year of the program. In the present economic scenario, the total expense of the program as well as the opportunity cost of being away from job may be daunting for some aspirants; you have the choice to opt for the less expensive European MBA.
4. International exposure – While both the models are international in their approach, the diversity factor is higher at European schools. For e.g. IMD Lausanne class size of 90 is made up of over 40 nationalities. In contrast, approximately 30-40 percent students come from abroad in most American schools. It is, however, equally true that America is, inherently, multi-cultural and American nationals bring with them a rich blend of ethnicity.
5. Selection criteria – Both the models look for a comprehensive profile with sound professional experience and readiness for academic rigor yet, there is a subtle difference in emphasis. Together with other factors, a high GMAT score could be a strong determining factor in the American MBA schools while a successful work experience can tilt the balance in your favour for a European MBA program.
The above guidelines offer you some basic insight into the two models and help you to make a choice but, remember that not all programs fit the predominant pattern in either case. It is best to research individual schools before you take a decision. In times of recession it is natural to feel concerned about placement opportunities. Adopt an optimistic attitude, make an informed choice and go ahead with your plans; there is always demand for the able and the focussed. An international education, whether American or European, is bound to add greater value to your profile than a degree from a more protected environment.
The broad parameters under which distinction can be made are course duration, curriculum, career prospects, international exposure, cost of the program and the criteria for selection followed by the business schools. Below are suggested guidelines that will help you make a choice:
1. Duration - of the program is two years in American schools while it is one year in most European schools. There are clear pros and cons for both. One year program may be too brief for some aspirants to either strengthen their profile or make a major career shift, whereas, for those with substantial work experience, one year may be sufficient to improve skills and broaden horizons. A longer duration also entails a longer break from work in comparison to the limited time spent away from one's career in a shorter time frame.
2. Curriculum – being shorter in duration, the European programs are relatively compressed and do not offer too many electives while the American courses give opportunity to take numerous elective courses as well as exchange programs. The first one is more suitable for students with substantial work experience wanting to give an impetus to their career while the other alternative is appropriate for those seeking an in-depth study in a particular field. The pedagogy in the Europeanmodel is characterised by interaction with the industry while in the American model it is primarily based on case studies.
3. Cost of the program – the difference in investment between European and American business schools is significant. Being of longer duration, the American MBA is more expensive, though, it does offer opportunity to work in the second year of the program. In the present economic scenario, the total expense of the program as well as the opportunity cost of being away from job may be daunting for some aspirants; you have the choice to opt for the less expensive European MBA.
4. International exposure – While both the models are international in their approach, the diversity factor is higher at European schools. For e.g. IMD Lausanne class size of 90 is made up of over 40 nationalities. In contrast, approximately 30-40 percent students come from abroad in most American schools. It is, however, equally true that America is, inherently, multi-cultural and American nationals bring with them a rich blend of ethnicity.
5. Selection criteria – Both the models look for a comprehensive profile with sound professional experience and readiness for academic rigor yet, there is a subtle difference in emphasis. Together with other factors, a high GMAT score could be a strong determining factor in the American MBA schools while a successful work experience can tilt the balance in your favour for a European MBA program.
The above guidelines offer you some basic insight into the two models and help you to make a choice but, remember that not all programs fit the predominant pattern in either case. It is best to research individual schools before you take a decision. In times of recession it is natural to feel concerned about placement opportunities. Adopt an optimistic attitude, make an informed choice and go ahead with your plans; there is always demand for the able and the focussed. An international education, whether American or European, is bound to add greater value to your profile than a degree from a more protected environment.
