Hi everybody,
I am 22 years old and I have finished my undergraduate degree in Economics at Bocconi University in Milan.

I have a GMAT score of 640, and my MSc applications have been accepted by the three following Universities:

? 2 years MSc in Economics and Management of Innovation and Technology at Bocconi in Milano (this course is actually more focused and in line with my interests)
? 1 year MSc in International Management at ESADE in Barcelona (9th in the FT rankings 09)
? 18 months MSc in Management at Nyenrode, Amsterdam (40th in the FT rankings 09)

I need to take my final decision in just one week, and I desperately need advice to make a ranking among these options. Living in Milano, Bocconi would be definitely less expensive (no living expenses). On the other hand, ESADE MSc has an excellent FT ranking, and Nyenrode is a very attractive option too?.. Also, would a degree in International Management be bore ?flexible? for finding a job, with respect to a more focused course like the one in Bocconi ? Also, Bocconi is a 2 years course, while ESADE is only one year, and Nyenrode 18 months?.how should value these differences?

Any suggestion, idea, recommendation would be greatly appreciated!!!

Marco

I've heard at the Bocconi program is very theory-based, so if you're on the PhD path that might work for you.

But all other things considered, ESADE's program is the best of the bunch, but the gap isn't as big as the FT rankings make it seem. Nyenrode's exit salaries are in the same ballpark - it just doesn't have the same reputation as ESADE.

In terms of length of time, well, that's up to you. Many students prefer a one-year program because it cuts way down on the amount of time away from work, living expenses, all of that.

Ultimately it will depend on your future career goals. I'll tell you right now, it'll be harder for you to get a job straight out of school with a MSc, than if you had worked for a couple years and did an MBA. But if you're looking further down the road, as in getting a PhD and teaching or researching, then that's a different story.