Hello, I'm an American and I run a medium sized online retail business. As I'm increasingly dealing with Chinese businesses - this is my main growth area - I was thinking of going to do my MBA in the country, where I could network, build connections, and learn more about the business culture so to speak. I would continue to maintain my business while doing the MBA but hand off most of the daily management responsibilities to my second in command until I finished. At that point I would probably go back to the business full time but I would be open to new opportunities if they were to arise during the degree.

I've been looking at MBAs in China and I find that the offerings in the country seem to be less developed than MBAs in the west or say those in Hong Kong and Singapore. I've been trying not to be judgmental, but other than perhaps CEIBS, my feeling is that the business schools there need a few more years to compete with MBAs elsewhere.

At this point I'm leaning towards HKUST, because of the deep connections the school seems to have with the mainland. I would do the 16 month program, potentially taking a semester at Tsinghua or another school in the mainland. Another possibility would be Insead. From my research it looks as if this school has one of the best reputations in the region, and its rankings are of course top notch. I'm not entirely certain thought it it completely matches my goals.

I would love it if people on this board could help guide my decision. I've learned a lot by reading here, it's been really helpful!

For your goals, I would say that HKUST would be a better choice than Insead. It's a solid program and your instincts are right about it being relatively well connected with mainland China.

Are you not considering the CEIBS program at all?

You mentioned your business with Chinese. For this reason, I think China's and Hong Kong's are better options than Insead.

Insead is the most reputable in Asia. But you have your business, which actively interact with Chinese (I believe). Then, you should build network with Chinese and HK.

Between HKUST and CEIBS, I would pick HKUST. Both of them are good but I think living in Hong Kong is easier for expat. Another good option is HKU.

Yes, agreed with the above. Insead is a great choice for the globally-minded consultant, but not the best choice if you are primarily interested in connecting with Chinese businesses. CEIBS is sort of in that boat too.

HKUST seems like the best choice for your career goals.

Interested in hearing if you decided on HKUST. I just submitted my application for round 1.