Hello, I'm sure this is a common thread on fees vs reputation but I would really value input from those in the know.



I am a mid-level manager with 5+ years of experience but soon to come to the end of my work contract and when applying for roles struggling to get the next step up the management ladder. I have a foundation degree in business I gained before my career and other studies started but outside of this my experience is in science and have a BSc and a Masters in my subject.



I have applied and been accepted onto part-time MBA programmes I hope to study alongside part-time work so cost is a big factor for me. I have been accepted to: Sunderland, Lincoln, Manchester Metropolitan and Edinburgh Napier University. I have also been offered a place on a Top-Up BA with Northumbria and I am considering if this is a good starting point instead.



I appreciate that those accredited and highest ranking Universities are the ones that I would be recommended in general, but with budget considerations and looking at an MBA for career progression at mid-level management not top exec work, does this make a difference. I also don't plan to use the MBA internationally so though accreditation is preferred, everything has a value attached and I'm not going to get these most renowned courses for lowest price, I understand that.



Which course would you choose in my situation please and why?

[Edited by ellietan on Aug 25, 2022]

Take a look at https://find-mba.com/board/distance-learning/value-alternatives-to-unaccredited-mbas-58288 given how far those schools are from each other I think you are looking for a online MBA. A "part time" MBA would tend to be on campus. 

Thank you for your reply Duncan and to confirm yes it is online and part-time I am looking for. I have found some online full-time options but the ability to keep going with work, being in contract roles, the bedding in and changeover to these I don't feel full-time work alongside will be easy in this instance. 

The link has been helpful and as I feared taking a budget option for the study and title may not be the best move. I do see Manchester Met on that discussion being a triple credited University so on balance that sounds to be my best investment of those I have had offer from.
In your opinion there is no value in studying for the Top Up BA at this point in my career it would give no benefit?

The major benefit of the BA is that it would allow you to apply for much better MBA programmes and make a bigger professional advancement. However, it doesn't sound like that is your goal.