I recently faced a similar choice, however i thought about this when i was first applying to colleges.

I did some research about both M.Arch and MBA programs. I ultimately decided on getting a Dual MBA/M.Arch. There are a handful of schools that offer this as a 3 year program. U Penn, Yale, WashU, U of I to name a few. I will be attending U of I in the fall as that was the only MBA program I was accepted into (most of them want like 3-5 years of experience minimum and i will only have 2 by august). I figure I if want to continue with arch. having an extra masters degree is almost neccessary for the relatively close future and if i decide to go some other way... well i have a respectable MBA with a M. Arch kicker. I figure it will still impress people outside of architecture.

However, i have had friends go to good schools for their M. Arch and then change their mind and go with the MBA from that school instead. Because the school already knew them, and they received good marks they were admitted into MBA program there's no way they should have been. So that might be an option for you.

there are a lot of debbie downers on this site who will soon make the same post they have made on every other thread related to this topic. my advice: follow whatever path that will truly excite and inspire you and find a way to make it financially viable.

@w4000

thanks for the advice, that was actually on my mind when i was applying. The school does offer the dual degree program, i just didn't apply for the mba part of it at this point in time, i did want that to be an option though. I think your right about getting your foot in the door making it easier to get into the college's other various schools. I am definitely considering that. The only thing is it tacks on another two semesters, which would cost another kidney, and unfortunately i need at least 1 to live.. haha

yup, I'd be one of those 'debbie downers' posting a similar response to other threads ;-)


Dual degree is ideal, you cover your basis, keep options open, not to mention having two degrees will make you look better (or at least give you bragging rights).

Flexibility is key. Having dual degrees will give you the option to do anything - architecture and you'll look more attractive and/or have more biz experience, business world and you'll look like you are creative and can think outside of the generic biz world. Win/win



I'd talk to the schools, find out what your chances are. Top schools are going to have super competitive biz schools, which might not be realistic without prior business experience (the one I've been eyeing requires 10+ years experience in re, for example - they want people that bring something to the table).


Other than that, I'd would defer until you can decide which way is best for you or reapply to dual degree programs. Good luck finding a job, half of my developer clients have simply vanished or gone under. Maybe things are looking up, but still nothing consistent or solid to bet on.