Do employer's really care about what college you graduated from?

Question

I am going to start my MBA program and I decided to attend University of Phoenix, because it works around my schedule and the cost is not that bad. I was thinking of attending Pepperdine University, but the cost of going there is $68,250 vs $20,000 (give or take) if I stay with University of Phoenix. I am only 26 yrs old and I figure that by the time that I am in my mid 30's companies will look at my experience instead of what college I went to. What is more important, having a degree or where you got your degree from?

Answer 1

When it comes to MBA programs (and certain other courses of study, like law), where you went to college matters to most employers, and is far more important than your life experience.  It matters less and less, however, as you gain more post-graduate experience in the profession.  

If you want to work your way up from the bottom after graduation, then go for Phoenix.  If you want to start out at the top, attend the most highly-rated school that you can, and take out some loans.

Answer 2

Some do, some don't. And it will depend on the job and the level of job you are going for. The Univ of Phoenix degrees are often not regarded highly by recruiters.

Answer 3

Certainly, why this why people go to expensive school. Thinking of investment. The more money you invest, the more return you will get.

Answer 4

Hired and fired hundreds over the last 40 years.......

I would not hire a MBA with no experience.....I would advise......and I don't care if you take it or leave it.........Get your BA get a job in your field get 5 or 6 years experience.......start your MBA program.....let the company pay for it and your on your way.......an MBA is a tool you don't have any experience using.........sorry........that's life. A MBA with out experience is worthless.........no one in their right mind would pay the fright......

Answer 5

They both matter.    

if you could get into Pepperdines MBA program, you should.  

Answer 6

I think it really only matters if you want to be a Dr. or a Lawyer. As long as you have your degree, that's all they should care about.  

Answer 7

Don't end sentences with a preposition. That, my friend, matters to an employer.

Answer 8

they don't care as much what college you go to, they care about your grades. that is pretty much all... unless you get a scholarship there is no point going to an expensive college

Answer 9

The main thing would be your degree and your GPA.  After that an employer might look where you got your degree, but I think that would only be if the employer was having a hard time deciding between a couple of job applicants.

Answer 10

It depends on the type of job that you get into!  Take a look at me.  3 years communitie college and I'm a grease monkey at the local garage.  

If you want to be a doctor or a lawyer or something high profile it could certainly scoot you in the right direction.  

Answer 11

It is more important that you have a degree.  Most places don't care where you got it from.  And like you say, ten years down the road companies will be more interested in your work experience.