Do some schools impress hiring managers more than others?
The school of hard knocks–really. Next to that, any school run by the military–especially special forces training, Naval Aviation, or ROTC. Former soldiers make good employees as they understand teamwork, commitment to a higher principle and the importance of individual achievement.
Next on the list, education in the “hard” sciences, such as chemistry, math, physics, or even economics. I am more interested in the curriculum selected by a student than by the school attended.
Small colleges, or universities which do not emphasize post-graduate work, often provide a better education, and greater opportunity for outside the classroom learning. Classes tend to be smaller and generally taught by professors, rather than grad students. Consequently, students are more likely to develop relationships with professors, facilitating opportunities to get additional help, learn more about the field, and become involved in research (learn “standing up”, not just sitting).
I see many resumes from individuals in the nonprofit sector with advanced degrees in areas such as political science, international relations, and public policy. However, most nonprofits have an overabundance of employees with academic knowledge of subject matter and a shortage of those with operational and business expertise. I’m impressed when I see an MBA on the resume.
In my experience, one is better off acquiring an MBA at a business school which primarily employs teachers who work days and teach in the evening. In subjects such as finance, production management, accounting, and IT, professors who work outside of the classroom provide a superior education.
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