InformationWeek

May 12, 1998

I am a quality assurance manager (I have been in the quality assurance industry for more than 13 years) for a technology-oriented sterilization company. I hold a bachelor's degree in computer information systems, with an emphasis on business administration. Since my second year in college, I have wanted to become a systems analyst with one of the large consulting firms. Unfortunately, my degree seems to not be what these firms are looking for. I want to continue my education, but I am unsure as to what route to take. Should I go back to college and get a technical bachelor's degree, such as computer science or computer engineering. Or should I just move forward and attend graduate school, where I can focus on a MBA or a masters in computer information systems?

Who has been advising you that your degree and your concentration is holding back large consulting firms from hiring you? To me, it appears that your concentrated experience in quality assurance is what's probably precluding you from falling into the mainstream of what Big Six and large consulting firms may be targeting. Your question, however, is really focused around education. So staying on that matter, my advice is to get an MBA; it will draw far greater interest from future consulting firms who recognize that you're a business-minded technology professional.

More Questions:
How can I find the right niche for myself?

Would a full-time MBA erode my marketability?

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