Ortwin Klose, USA
I first heard about Heriot-Watt in 1993 as I was browsing through an MBA reference book. At the time, I had just completed a bachelor of science degree in computer science and I was investigating an MBA as the next educational step. I was initially searching for a high-quality, inexpensive MBA program — a seemingly rare combination. Then I discovered Heriot-Watt and found that I could earn a high-quality degree at a reasonable cost via distance learning. The distance learning program's flexibility, in both time and space, was highly appealing to me. I had plenty of personal motivation, so the idea of independent study did not concern me. Unfortunately, my years as a 'starving student' left me with insufficient funds to start the program at that point in my career. I put my MBA plans on hold, but always kept Heriot-Watt in the back of my mind.
Several years later, in 2002, I was hired by DaimlerChrysler Services NA, LLC and discovered that they had a very generous tuition reimbursement program. I successfully petitioned to have Heriot-Watt included in the corporate reimbursement program, since the university had achieved Department of Education approval (US accreditation) in addition to the UK's Royal Charter.
When I reconnected with Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Business School in autumn of 2002, I found that they had established a strong web presence (online learning), and they also offered an MBA in finance (my ideal degree). At that point, I discovered how easy it was to enroll in the program. Unlike other universities, the Edinburgh Business School does not discriminate against prospective students based on a lack of an undergraduate degree or a lack of GMAT test scores. Instead, the Edinburgh Business School gives each student a chance to prove themselves, and become an enrolled student, by passing three exams, one of which must be a core course. I purchased my courses via the Edinburgh Business School website and received them via express shipment within one week. When I had questions, the local US representatives were always available via phone or email. This became important when the corporate tuition reimbursement program changed and I needed to find a new way to purchase my courses. Another example of the program's flexibility and high level of customer service.
As I dove into my studies, I enjoyed the fact that I could proceed at my own pace and that I could study where and when it was convenient. This program is perfect for people who have to balance busy family and work schedules (e.g. children and business travel). I found the courses to be challenging, in-depth, and relevant to the current business environment. The broad-based MBA curriculum covers the important aspects that business managers need to know, and allows enough flexibility to tailor one's studies to a particular business area or industry sector. The tests are tough but fair, and are administered at a nearby metropolitan university. The driving distance in my case is quite reasonable.
In summary, I found that Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Business School offers the best combination of flexibility, quality, and value. I researched other distance learning programs before choosing the Edinburgh Business School. No other school offered such a competitive combination of positive attributes. Further, the excellent student service facilities ensure that one is never 'alone' during the program. At degree completion, I'm certain that I will have earned a degree that is both personally and professionally valuable. The Edinburgh Business School MBA degree provides knowledge one can use. I'm certain that the Edinburgh Business School degree will greatly improve my future career opportunities.
