Here is where I am now with my graduate school decision..

[Vle045]

I have been looking into MBA and Human Resources paths.   I do *not* have a business degree.  I have been randomly taking online courses.  Not necessarily anything that is for credit (I am ok with that for now).  I want to keep my choices to no more than $10,000 total and avoid debt.  My undergrad took too long to pay off and I don’t want to go there again.   

So, that brings me to what I have found so far...

Walden - They offer both an MBA and a Master in Human Resources.  The HR program does not have program accreditation but the MBA does.  They got in some sort of trouble regarding the nursing program and I am afraid their RA accreditation may be at risk.  Not sure if the reputation of the school would be at risk.  I am doing the free term starting next month regardless.  Cost would be under 10,000 only if I can finish in 3 terms. (9 months - which may be hard).   

Grantham - I just found this school.  I would qualify for their “heroes” discount because my husband is a veteran and a police Lieutenant.  Could get an accredited MBA.  They do not offer an HR concentration nor a Master in HR, but they have both an undergrad and grad *certificate* in HR.  Seems they got in some kind of trouble for targeting military folks in their advertising.  Could be an issue with reputation for that, but I am not sure.  But I like the price. $250 per credit & no other fees.  I like that the cost remains the same even if I take it really slow.  But can’t choose an HR degree, only certificate.  I think they are NA and program accredited.

WGU - This is mostly appealing if I can get one of their scholarships.  I would possibly be eligible for the Administrative scholarship.  They only have an MBA, not an HR masters.  If I had the scholarship and could finish in two terms, it would stay under that 10,000 range.

I gave University of the People a try.  I think I need a little more interaction.  Not a fan of the peer grading thing.  And concerned on how well it would be received out in the world.  

Most other options I have found price around $20,000 or more.  I just don’t think I want to do that.  That would take loans.  Meh.

I am going to do the ENEB thing.  It’s super cheap and for me totally worth it regardless of what I get out of it.  I still can’t figure out how valid it would be here in the US.  But I have spent more money on a watch I didn’t need, so there’s that.    


I am also in the middle of the free certificate in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion that USF is offering.  I figured this would at best be a nice supplement to any degree.  At worst, great personal and professional development.

Any further insights that might help are appreciated.