HI all ,

I have deposited initial amount to Durham school for sep 09-10 batch.After so much research I choosed Durham over Bath,Bradford,Leeds,Nottingham,Strathclyde.. i was having offer from all these schools? its every one personal decision after doing so much research.My hurt was saying to durham ....so best of Luck all the aspirants of 2009-10 in UK.

Gautam

Hello Gautam
this is an old post of urs and u must have completed ur course as well as got a job.I am planning to do my masters in management and i got durrham as an option for MA in Management.I am not eligible for MBA as i have just 1.7 yr work ex.
Plz guide me about uni of durrham.what is the brand value.How was ur experience ?? what jobs were u n ur odr batch mates able to acheive...and hows the life at the uni?? is it a very boring place to live in as its a world heritage site....also what is the part job scenario....Sorry too many questions but hope u would understand the dellima that and MBA aspirant goes thru while selecting the unseen unis.....
waiting for reply
regards
GG

The email I received:

"Thanks for your response. I had been through that entire thread in pagalguy before...checked a few pages yet again... pretty informative....especially your posts
I have a few questions:
1) Now that you have completed a considerable part of your course, would you still consider Durham B school as a coveted destination? Would you choose Durham again, given a chance?
2) Is the location of Durham a disadvantage for jobs? Between Durham and Aston which one would you suggest in terms of job prospects and industry reputation? I have offers from both...it would be great if you can suggest some pointers to help me decide.
3)I understand that with the previous HSMP list most Indian students in Durham had to come back to India post their MBA. How's the scenario now with PSW? Is the 2009 pass out batch well placed by now?

Reply:

04 March,2010.
in middle of sessions..but its ok..
am glad even if my posts could make someone think!!

1. so its that do I repent to join here.. its a very personal questions and differ from students.. if its purely my view, my friends are/were studying their MBA at NY Stern, ISB and Imperial..so I always compare my prog with theirs..and yes, I get disappointed..I did get conditional offers from Imperial and Lancaster..but the condition was atleast 600 score in GMAT. and I couldn't get it.. So I still believe that Durham is the best in its league with my gmat and financial constraints. And as a University, Durham is highly reputed all over UK..until 8-10 years back it was considered as most reputed and prestigious after Cambridge and Oxford..now that many new schools have come up..things changed! But it still got the name/fame with natives of UK...Unfortunately those stay within UK itself..

Durham is the best in its league.. Though there are around 90 students in this batch, and students from 23 countries, the number of Indians are the majority, no: of Brits are 5,US-5 and China 3. However the average work experience is 7 years..and majority of them have worked in higher designations and roles...but my expectations were higher or maybe because I was an entrepreneur and I see things in a different angle, the wave length is a bit different to talk real business.. and this can differ in each year..maybe you will have a better cohort..esp since I was told that this year they have made entry conditions tougher.

If its studies, in first term you study the basics of all subjects as compulsory module(core module)..and thats an overview.In second term: you choose the subjects you are interested in(electives), and that too i find is just an overview, 90% of the subject's classes gets over in 3 day's time, each day with 8 hours class..and, thats it! its over..So there is nothing that you are studying indepth. Its something that you have to build on your existing strength.Not anything from the scratch!ANd please dont think it is any different in other b-schools in UK. The case in other business in Durham Tier is equally bad or worse. So on that note, I think Durham MBA is the best in its TIER.

And yes,Durham is worth the experience..I compare to my another friend who is studying at Bradford..in Durham there is something to do or get engaged all the time..u can do alot of things..Photography, dance, martial arts, adventure sports, sky diving..history, archaeology.. there is alot..Unlike many other places where other b-schools are located with just lots of shops and city life..and to add, Durham, as a place, though a village, its rich in English and etiquettes which will start reflecting in your personality.

2.I dont think so.. maybe, yes for part-time jobs.. Otherwise location is NOT a parameter for job search. everything goes online.. .. Aston's MBA is equally or more good and reputed?? I met Aston's student, and they told me that they consider Durham MBA a better program.. and personally, I liked Durham's curriculum. I think you must go with the curriculum, go with your interest.

I can say, to a bit higher level, Aston might have an advantage over Durham in terms of being in the city and hence is reputed with its MBA prog.but its a tiny ' bit'. Durham University has way above reputations and recognitions over other UK Universities like Aston.

So to answer your question,.. hmmmm, I would say you must go with the curriculum u are interested in.. or must talk to someone who has passed out from Aston or now studying.. I amnot right person to recommend on those lines- on another b-school's programme..sorry!

3.PSW is a visa that students get after completing their course. And everyone will get it. Its a rule.Unless the Government takes it off which is unlikely. You can stay for 2 years after studies. But the issue is are u getting a job.. See dude, everyone who join Durham WILL have proper avg 4-6+ years of work experience. As in my batch, everyone is so good at careers and achievement..most of them have worked at higher levels and designation around the world. so finding job for them is NOT an issue..they can anytime go back to their countries/companies and find a job..

Ok,about last year, majority have gone back to their previous companies.and few others found job on their previous work exp and had nothing to do with MBA degree.. many are waiting for their next interview round..unlike India, here recruitment process happens over a span of 3-4 or maybe 6 months time..its a long process..to get short-listed itself is an achievement..then it takes time for next round..and so on..thats why people ask you to start applying for jobs as soon as you reach UK.Hope you understand what I try to convey..

The one year- MBA Degree is just to get higher career in ur present job..and if u are lucky, you will find opportunities and get the break in different career lines.. might as well win a lottery! ;)

I think you must talk to a student of Aston before you chose between Durham and Aston MBA..I dont have an exact picture about it. I had an offer with them as well.But then I went with Durham..reasons were many; curriculum, history and University repute..it was a personal choice..

All the best..I know its a huge decission..i would call it a huge and a very long term investment..

Cheers,
BrijuKB

January 17, 2010.

I am currently studying at Durham Business School for my MBA; 2009-2010.
This Post is for all those guys who are mailing me and need some info.
Kindly note: This post is mainly with respect to the following questions:
1. Should I study MBA at UK or USA or elsewhere?
2. Is 1 year MBA better than 2 years MBA program? is it worth it?
3. Can I do Part-time jobs while studying at Durham or any top MBA progs at UK.
4. How can I repay the bank loan and EMIs?
5. Jobs in UK after an MBA from UK, esp from not the top-5 ranked B-schools.

http://www.pagalguy.com/forum/international-indian-mba-schools-accepting/37593-durham-2009-intake-help-needed.html

Orkut community:
orkut -

Firstly all the best for your MBA applications and GMAT exam. My friends and me have posted lots of things on this Pagalguy forum. Kindly go through them right from page 1 till the last.. You should get an entire picture about Durham MBA from it.And that Orkut community link is: After getting into Durham MBA, We all shifted to that Orkut community.
Unlike most of top ranked Universities which accept any kind of work-experience, Durham is a bit strict on managerial-level work-experience!

The program is nice, Value for Money. An intense- 1 year course, in which you might hardly find time to breath and relax.Good lectures,latest case-studies, interactive sessions, guest lectures..A nice package with a great University reputation.

Place: Durham is a county and a great place to study(and drink-drink and drink)..Rich English culture!! Not too many shopping centres and city life.By 5pm all shops will closed. UK is its an expensive place.Right from one loaf of bread costing you 1,sandwitch 4; to cheapest spectacles costing you not less than 150. Otherwise, in short, its a nice place to relax, study and take a break, questioning yourself, priorities and values.

Durham Alumni and Mentor system is very much helpfull throughout the studies and guess in furthur too. I am constantly in touch with my mentor and Alumni, who guides me everytime with valuable points and suggestions. And those of whome who think that it will fetch you a job? hahahaha,LOL!, No, it doesnt work that way! Its just purely networking! Thats it! They might give you suggestions and recommendations, but NOT any job after your studies.LOL!

I heard rumours that Durham for this year's intake might ask for a GMAT scores.and Durham is really climbing up the ranking. I am sure it is going to hit highest rankings and recognitions with 2 or maxi 3 years.
if you want latest rankings, As of latest- year 2010 rankings.
On an average of all rankings
Durham UNIVERSITY is among top-9 UNIVERSITIES in UK.

As of latest- year 2010 rankings, On an average, Durham MBA program is among:
Top-10 in UK.
Top-20 in Europe; and
Top-50 in the World.

1 year MBA is majorly for people who wants to stay in their present industry and require an vertical positional hike. It is not meant for people who look for a career change or a detailed MBA study.
And for US and Canada yes its 2 year program.There are many giving you 1 year as well.And FYI, dont think that all these guys go to US's top B-schools because they got 40-70 Lakhs to spare or roll. All matters is if for first 6 months can you shell out from your pocket.Which will be the same amount that an year's living expense in UK without doing part-times would cost you. In US,after 6 months, 95% guys i know, have found part-times,(and in UK 95% have not).
Moreover, 2 year MBA program is relaxed.You will have ample time to do part-time jobs and understand the subjects in detail, and most of them provide interships during the last year.

Abstract from a reply I sent few days back, answering her questions:

************* Mail*************
"try to be career focussed in life..make sure you have an aim in life: to get into top b-schools in the world! anyways you are going to spend lakhs and 1 or 2 years of you life..why not to the best?? work towards it. Not always, but Chopras consultancies and others have misguided lots of my friends. they are very much biased and always play safe to increase they reputation or commissions. and talk in very genuine and convincing ways..even small issues, they mis-guide the candidates always! if you have time so that you can wait for an year, dont waste ur money and time.. do your GMAT preprations, get best scores, with that apply top top b-schools. any b-school ranked within top 35 in the World acc to FT rankings should be fine..

1) What kind of part time jobs you can expect and in how many months?
No part-times available in UK right now..nor in near future of 1+years..unless you are very lucky.. moreover, if you doing MBA in top Univs, including from Durham, forget Part-times, you wont find time to even breath. So forget Part-times while doing from top -schools in UK..maybe U can do while studying in USA' top b-schools..
2) What is the present job scenario in UK.. Since I would be graduating in 2011 what could I expect with my kinda previous job profile
No jobs so far.. previous cohort are still searching for it..hardly 2-3 few got placed..and that too it was based on their previous jobs.and in your case, since you are from India its difficutl..while in 2011, i dont think it will be favourable in UK/EU..in US, yes, you will..i know lots of cases within this year itself..btw, new restrictions on IT workers on-sites to even MNC!
3) What internships can you expect.. Are you in any internship and how about getting permanent thru the same company...
Internships?? its just 1.5 months of business project..that all..In LBS and Manchester b-school i think you have longer ones..After your studies,you can apply fro internships..again,You must be lucky..yet again, it easier, and happens in US... or few cases from top 5 B-schools in UK..
See buddy,it doesnt work that way in UK..please dont go with false pictures and dreams given by ur friends or consultancies..it was like that ages back..not since past 2 years..and infuture its going to get tougher for International students!
Study in any top b-schools in US..what you asked is all possible..atleast a 50%+ chance.. even if you study in top 5 in UK, you would find it difficult to get a part-time, and time to do it..and even if u do it, it will just cover your basic living expenses.Ok, its true that If its MBA from top 5-b schools in UK, you would get internships..but in majority of cases it doesnt get confirmed to a permanent job, no matter how best you perform.
Sorry to not give u glossy pictures..i have just written the facts..if u have time, prepare for GMAT and get in good b-schools in US.. else, try for best ones in UK..else try at Durham..and if not able to get to Durham, rest in the list..
if you have personal issues with finances/money, dont come to UK.. Goto US.. trust me on that! :)

*************END of Mail*************
Budget-wise, it is the main issue..even 1 or $1 counts. But if you have a good GMAT score, most of top Universities give u upto 50%scholarship on tuition fees.
EMI is the main factor, when it comes to MBA studies in UK.It is nearly impossible to pay that much EMIs unless you have savings or heavily paid jobs. If going back to your present industry after studies, will fetch you with designation hike as well as huge pay, and someone can guarantee you that, like your reporting head or anyone, then do come for UK MBA.

Think about it.You have all the answers within urself. My above said scattered infos might help you to make a decission. And taking 20-25 lakhs loan from the bank, and paying nearly INR 35K EMI after studying,thinking you will find a job in UK within 1 year after your studies, is NOT HAPPENING! its just a myth. or say, you should be really damn lucky. as well might try lucky-draws!

Friend, IF the total fees including living expense of the MBA program is coming upto, say, 25 Lakhs, and you have atleast upto 15Lakhs saving in urs or parents/anyone close and then if you could take 10 Lakhs loan from bank, it should work out. any 1 year top MBA should work out if you have finances in that denomination.

Learn to Prioritize!
This is what We all did: take a pen and paper! it might sound stupidity, but trust me,it works!! Jot things down.prioritize, and then conclude. I am sure you can do it. Later stick and focus on to exactly what you have concluded.

All the best,
BrijuKB

Thanks BrijuKB for your good debriefing..It will help lot of guys to think wisely on their plans...

January 17, 2010.

I am currently studying at Durham Business School for my MBA; 2009-2010.
This Post is for all those guys who are mailing me and need some info.
Kindly note: This post is mainly with respect to the following questions:
1. Should I study MBA at UK or USA or elsewhere?
2. Is 1 year MBA better than 2 years MBA program? is it worth it?
3. Can I do Part-time jobs while studying at Durham or any top MBA progs at UK.
4. How can I repay the bank loan and EMIs?
5. Jobs in UK after an MBA from UK, esp from not the top-5 ranked B-schools.

http://www.pagalguy.com/forum/international-indian-mba-schools-accepting/37593-durham-2009-intake-help-needed.html

Orkut community:
orkut -

Firstly all the best for your MBA applications and GMAT exam. My friends and me have posted lots of things on this Pagalguy forum. Kindly go through them right from page 1 till the last.. You should get an entire picture about Durham MBA from it.And that Orkut community link is: After getting into Durham MBA, We all shifted to that Orkut community.
Unlike most of top ranked Universities which accept any kind of work-experience, Durham is a bit strict on managerial-level work-experience!

The program is nice, Value for Money. An intense- 1 year course, in which you might hardly find time to breath and relax.Good lectures,latest case-studies, interactive sessions, guest lectures..A nice package with a great University reputation.

Place: Durham is a county and a great place to study(and drink-drink and drink)..Rich English culture!! Not too many shopping centres and city life.By 5pm all shops will closed. UK is its an expensive place.Right from one loaf of bread costing you 1,sandwitch 4; to cheapest spectacles costing you not less than 150. Otherwise, in short, its a nice place to relax, study and take a break, questioning yourself, priorities and values.

Durham Alumni and Mentor system is very much helpfull throughout the studies and guess in furthur too. I am constantly in touch with my mentor and Alumni, who guides me everytime with valuable points and suggestions. And those of whome who think that it will fetch you a job? hahahaha,LOL!, No, it doesnt work that way! Its just purely networking! Thats it! They might give you suggestions and recommendations, but NOT any job after your studies.LOL!

I heard rumours that Durham for this year's intake might ask for a GMAT scores.and Durham is really climbing up the ranking. I am sure it is going to hit highest rankings and recognitions with 2 or maxi 3 years.
if you want latest rankings, As of latest- year 2010 rankings.
On an average of all rankings
Durham UNIVERSITY is among top-9 UNIVERSITIES in UK.

As of latest- year 2010 rankings, On an average, Durham MBA program is among:
Top-10 in UK.
Top-20 in Europe; and
Top-50 in the World.

1 year MBA is majorly for people who wants to stay in their present industry and require an vertical positional hike. It is not meant for people who look for a career change or a detailed MBA study.
And for US and Canada yes its 2 year program.There are many giving you 1 year as well.And FYI, dont think that all these guys go to US's top B-schools because they got 40-70 Lakhs to spare or roll. All matters is if for first 6 months can you shell out from your pocket.Which will be the same amount that an year's living expense in UK without doing part-times would cost you. In US,after 6 months, 95% guys i know, have found part-times,(and in UK 95% have not).
Moreover, 2 year MBA program is relaxed.You will have ample time to do part-time jobs and understand the subjects in detail, and most of them provide interships during the last year.

Abstract from a reply I sent few days back, answering her questions:

************* Mail*************
"try to be career focussed in life..make sure you have an aim in life: to get into top b-schools in the world! anyways you are going to spend lakhs and 1 or 2 years of you life..why not to the best?? work towards it. Not always, but Chopras consultancies and others have misguided lots of my friends. they are very much biased and always play safe to increase they reputation or commissions. and talk in very genuine and convincing ways..even small issues, they mis-guide the candidates always! if you have time so that you can wait for an year, dont waste ur money and time.. do your GMAT preprations, get best scores, with that apply top top b-schools. any b-school ranked within top 35 in the World acc to FT rankings should be fine..

1) What kind of part time jobs you can expect and in how many months?
No part-times available in UK right now..nor in near future of 1+years..unless you are very lucky.. moreover, if you doing MBA in top Univs, including from Durham, forget Part-times, you wont find time to even breath. So forget Part-times while doing from top -schools in UK..maybe U can do while studying in USA' top b-schools..
2) What is the present job scenario in UK.. Since I would be graduating in 2011 what could I expect with my kinda previous job profile
No jobs so far.. previous cohort are still searching for it..hardly 2-3 few got placed..and that too it was based on their previous jobs.and in your case, since you are from India its difficutl..while in 2011, i dont think it will be favourable in UK/EU..in US, yes, you will..i know lots of cases within this year itself..btw, new restrictions on IT workers on-sites to even MNC!
3) What internships can you expect.. Are you in any internship and how about getting permanent thru the same company...
Internships?? its just 1.5 months of business project..that all..In LBS and Manchester b-school i think you have longer ones..After your studies,you can apply fro internships..again,You must be lucky..yet again, it easier, and happens in US... or few cases from top 5 B-schools in UK..
See buddy,it doesnt work that way in UK..please dont go with false pictures and dreams given by ur friends or consultancies..it was like that ages back..not since past 2 years..and infuture its going to get tougher for International students!
Study in any top b-schools in US..what you asked is all possible..atleast a 50%+ chance.. even if you study in top 5 in UK, you would find it difficult to get a part-time, and time to do it..and even if u do it, it will just cover your basic living expenses.Ok, its true that If its MBA from top 5-b schools in UK, you would get internships..but in majority of cases it doesnt get confirmed to a permanent job, no matter how best you perform.
Sorry to not give u glossy pictures..i have just written the facts..if u have time, prepare for GMAT and get in good b-schools in US.. else, try for best ones in UK..else try at Durham..and if not able to get to Durham, rest in the list..
if you have personal issues with finances/money, dont come to UK.. Goto US.. trust me on that! :)

*************END of Mail*************
Budget-wise, it is the main issue..even 1 or $1 counts. But if you have a good GMAT score, most of top Universities give u upto 50%scholarship on tuition fees.
EMI is the main factor, when it comes to MBA studies in UK.It is nearly impossible to pay that much EMIs unless you have savings or heavily paid jobs. If going back to your present industry after studies, will fetch you with designation hike as well as huge pay, and someone can guarantee you that, like your reporting head or anyone, then do come for UK MBA.

Think about it.You have all the answers within urself. My above said scattered infos might help you to make a decission. And taking 20-25 lakhs loan from the bank, and paying nearly INR 35K EMI after studying,thinking you will find a job in UK within 1 year after your studies, is NOT HAPPENING! its just a myth. or say, you should be really damn lucky. as well might try lucky-draws!

Friend, IF the total fees including living expense of the MBA program is coming upto, say, 25 Lakhs, and you have atleast upto 15Lakhs saving in urs or parents/anyone close and then if you could take 10 Lakhs loan from bank, it should work out. any 1 year top MBA should work out if you have finances in that denomination.

Learn to Prioritize!
This is what We all did: take a pen and paper! it might sound stupidity, but trust me,it works!! Jot things down.prioritize, and then conclude. I am sure you can do it. Later stick and focus on to exactly what you have concluded.

All the best,
BrijuKB

It is good to hear for all Durham MBA student 2009.

DBS is ranked 53rd in the world (65th in 200 and 8th in the UK (15th in 200 in the Economists 09 ranking of top 100 full-time MBA programmes.Also Good to see IIM A at 99.
www.economist.com

Amit Gautam
MBA 2009
Durham B School

Hi Guys,
Really Touqeer it is a nice thread for B - tier School in Uk. All of who get admitted to Durham wish u a nice future and plz keep posting your Experiences

Hello Guys,
Lots of good thing to learn in this thread i m aspirant for 2010 keep on posting ur comments all who get admitted to Durham.

Hi. I have a Gmat score of 610. Work exp of 1 yr. avg acads. planning to go to durham, strath what are my chances?

Hello Guys,

Last week I have received VISA letter from Durham University. Please let me know who all from India are joing Durham Business School in 2009? I have chosen Germany as my first foreign language and French as my second.


Let me know how I can meet with u all guys....

~Soumen

Hi guys, I need your help. I have interviews at Leeds and Durham. Please, can you let me know what kind of questions they ask. Thank you for answers

@shweta.thorat:
Best in the order: Nottingham >Leeds > NewCastle.
Try at Bath, Durham and Aston too.
Your other queries should be answered in my previous post (Its page's link is given below)

http://www.pagalguy.com/forum/international-indian-mba-schools-accepting/37593-durham-2009-intake-help-needed-24.html
All the Best!
Cheers,
Brijesh

I have an admit from NewCastle, Leeds, Nottingham. Just needed to enquire about the colleges and the prospects as such after doing a MBA. A few queries:

1) Hows the Course and faculty. Value add in general..
2) Job prospects as i'll be on loan completely so have to think about paying back as well.
3) Should I decide solely on fees amongst the three as I had read somewhere that the colleges in UK dont matter much.
4) Whats the cost of living.
5) Is it possible to go for a part time along with the course.
6) Does the new 2 year visa rule help in securing jobs in UK
7) could you share contacts of any of ur friends in the above schools who could guide me.
Read that all AMBA accredited college students should get atleast 30-40 k as a rule in case we find a job. Is this true?

Kshitij,
You should be knowing that there are no campus placements in ANY university in UK. From my research I know that Notts organizes career fairs, but now with more countries being added in the EU and UK focussing more on Brits and europeans, chances for Asians to get jobs are dimmer than last few years. But from wht I know, the university is excellent and the brand name will help you.I am waiting for an offer from them but if I get thru i will go.

Hi Friends,

I got a conditional offer from Nottingham University Business School..
However i am in a kind of dilemma, whether shall i for this School..
Since Investment would be around 20Lacs (INR) and my major concern is for Return on Investment.
So can anyone have any idea about campus placements and list of companies recruit students from this business school. Moreover what is the lowest salary package and placement percentage specially for this 2009 passing out batch.

Guys ur valuable suggestion is requested.

Thanks,
Kshitij Srivastava

Guys!

A quick note on this thread.

The admissions process is almost over at Durham, and most of us are already in the "educational-loan/visa" phase. I presonally feel this thread has been an immense help to many students wanting to pursue their MBA at Durham. In fact, I saw prospective students of Leeds/Bradford/Starthclyde and related colleges also sharing their opinion on this thread.

I now feel its time to move over to the Durham MBA'09 community on Orkut created by Amit, for Durham specific queries (e.g electives/travel/forex etc). I guess this thread might not be the right place to place these questions.

However, If anyone still has generic questions, pls post it for the benifit of others.

I would like to Thank each and everyone who have contributed on this thread and helped many of us take a wise decision!!!

Cheers and All the Best!

V

Hi all,
I spoke to the present student of Durham and Strathclyde as well.

Passing on few info which might be helpful.

About Durham MBA.
- This batch 53 students. Only 9 Indian+ Around 10-15 from other Asian countries.3 from US. And as of today only 48 students are there, because few left the course.
- Part-time jobs not possible for first 4 months. Program is very hectic. Later on it is possible for doing Part-time jobs on account of networking ie. by giving up socializing and taking part in Univ events.
- Durham soon to hit higher ranks than Strathclyde. Why low right now is because, the last auditing and survey was done 3 years back.And in last couple of years they had few internal issues within the B-school.
- Durham University in top-5 in UK, and respected throughout Europe.
- Internship starts in June. Majority of them do in small scale local companies in and near Durham.Its works like this , the Univ will receive projects available from different companies, and then students can choose from them. A student can apply for upto 3 projects. After the interview with the Company, if they are selected, they can go ahead and do it. If not, they will have to do dissertation. Presently all students who wanted to do Business Project could get them. Few opted to do dissertation and few their own projects.
- Projects are done individually and not in groups.
- This year students 3 students are doing projects in Lucents, 1 in Olympics 2012.. rest in local small scale companies. Though this year, the usual companies dint come up with proj-options.Next years will depend on next year's requirement received by the University.
- Getting a job with same company where u do the project cannot be commented.2 students have got such offers. But again, it all depends on luck and industry scenario.
- Industry visit this time was to London. and it was a good exprnce it seems. Its better to take part in maxi of such initiatives.
- Durham Univ is very well respected among employers.In the last MBA forum happening somewhr, Durham students also attended..and there were students from IE and IESE and many top ranked B-schools.Durham was the least ranked in it.
- MBA is more about exposure and skill upgradations through discussions and board room activies.
_________________________________________________________

Now about the chat with Strathclyde 2008 passed out guy.
- Out of 70 studnets, 40 Asian/Indians.
- He got his HSMP stamped. But very few job oppur now.Before, if any1 had HSMP stamped, job was 80% assured.
- Strathclyde Univ is right in centre of Glasgow city. Lots of Part-times. Glasgow is having maxi numbr of call-centres in UK.
- Students work in call centres as part-time and make their living and other expenses.
- One of the BEST college life. Students enjoy to the core. Even Lancaster MBA guys come to Glasgow to party.
- Good education. Marketting staffs r bad.Accounting&Finance; one of the best. Specialising in Strategic Management, which he already finds implications in his a small projct he is doing now.Many have done projects in MNCs.
- out of 70 students, 30 got to do Company projects. Projects offers are bought in by the respective Coordinator.
-He did his project with a group of 9 in Honeywell. Unlike Durham where it is individually done projects, in Strathclyde, students form a group and then approach Companies. Companies conduct interviews and if u r lucky u get the project.
- U can make ur livings by doing Part-times. Students usually stay on private accomodation to save cash.
- Fast life and discussions and activies.
- Since strathclyde in thr in many other places as well, like Middle East, and many do it as Part-times ther, in June they all gather at Strathclyde Uk for forums and discussions.This is again a form of netwrking opputunities.
- Students right now are struggling from else whr who have graduated , many are working at 3 diffrnt companies and sleeping jus for 5 hours to qualify for the HSMP points with Bank balance wise
- Life-job in UK is damn tough. Struggle to core.
- If one wants to have good career, after ur course immediately join a company, either in UK or India. If u stay back at Post-study visa and do part time jobs for 2 years thinking u can pay-off bank loans, chances are quite less as well as u might loose ur career as well.
- Job prospects after MBA, either from strathclyde or Durham doesnt make much of a difference.Unless u study from top 5 in UK.Both are considered same.

************** END ******************

Thats it guys,
I have given out, all of it...Absolutely nothing more left..
Vivek, doode, We need to work on this..Choices are between, standards and Part-times. On one side, alrdy no job after studies in UK, so u might as well save maxi by doing Part-times, for which Strathclyde is the best. On other, for pure MBA experince and sole University life..its Durham..

:shock:

Cheers mate,
-Brijesh

Hey Brijesh ,

Thanks for the detailed analysis. It is a big help for students in dilema to select b/w Startchclyde and Durham.

Cheers!

V

Hi all,
I spoke to the present student of Durham and Strathclyde as well.

Passing on few info which might be helpful.

About Durham MBA.
- This batch 53 students. Only 9 Indian+ Around 10-15 from other Asian countries.3 from US. And as of today only 48 students are there, because few left the course.
- Part-time jobs not possible for first 4 months. Program is very hectic. Later on it is possible for doing Part-time jobs on account of networking ie. by giving up socializing and taking part in Univ events.
- Durham soon to hit higher ranks than Strathclyde. Why low right now is because, the last auditing and survey was done 3 years back.And in last couple of years they had few internal issues within the B-school.
- Durham University in top-5 in UK, and respected throughout Europe.
- Internship starts in June. Majority of them do in small scale local companies in and near Durham.Its works like this , the Univ will receive projects available from different companies, and then students can choose from them. A student can apply for upto 3 projects. After the interview with the Company, if they are selected, they can go ahead and do it. If not, they will have to do dissertation. Presently all students who wanted to do Business Project could get them. Few opted to do dissertation and few their own projects.
- Projects are done individually and not in groups.
- This year students 3 students are doing projects in Lucents, 1 in Olympics 2012.. rest in local small scale companies. Though this year, the usual companies dint come up with proj-options.Next years will depend on next year's requirement received by the University.
- Getting a job with same company where u do the project cannot be commented.2 students have got such offers. But again, it all depends on luck and industry scenario.
- Industry visit this time was to London. and it was a good exprnce it seems. Its better to take part in maxi of such initiatives.
- Durham Univ is very well respected among employers.In the last MBA forum happening somewhr, Durham students also attended..and there were students from IE and IESE and many top ranked B-schools.Durham was the least ranked in it.
- MBA is more about exposure and skill upgradations through discussions and board room activies.
_________________________________________________________

Now about the chat with Strathclyde 2008 passed out guy.
- Out of 70 studnets, 40 Asian/Indians.
- He got his HSMP stamped. But very few job oppur now.Before, if any1 had HSMP stamped, job was 80% assured.
- Strathclyde Univ is right in centre of Glasgow city. Lots of Part-times. Glasgow is having maxi numbr of call-centres in UK.
- Students work in call centres as part-time and make their living and other expenses.
- One of the BEST college life. Students enjoy to the core. Even Lancaster MBA guys come to Glasgow to party.
- Good education. Marketting staffs r bad.Accounting&Finance; one of the best. Specialising in Strategic Management, which he already finds implications in his a small projct he is doing now.Many have done projects in MNCs.
- out of 70 students, 30 got to do Company projects. Projects offers are bought in by the respective Coordinator.
-He did his project with a group of 9 in Honeywell. Unlike Durham where it is individually done projects, in Strathclyde, students form a group and then approach Companies. Companies conduct interviews and if u r lucky u get the project.
- U can make ur livings by doing Part-times. Students usually stay on private accomodation to save cash.
- Fast life and discussions and activies.
- Since strathclyde in thr in many other places as well, like Middle East, and many do it as Part-times ther, in June they all gather at Strathclyde Uk for forums and discussions.This is again a form of netwrking opputunities.
- Students right now are struggling from else whr who have graduated , many are working at 3 diffrnt companies and sleeping jus for 5 hours to qualify for the HSMP points with Bank balance wise
- Life-job in UK is damn tough. Struggle to core.
- If one wants to have good career, after ur course immediately join a company, either in UK or India. If u stay back at Post-study visa and do part time jobs for 2 years thinking u can pay-off bank loans, chances are quite less as well as u might loose ur career as well.
- Job prospects after MBA, either from strathclyde or Durham doesnt make much of a difference.Unless u study from top 5 in UK.Both are considered same.

************** END ******************

Thats it guys,
I have given out, all of it...Absolutely nothing more left..
Vivek, doode, We need to work on this..Choices are between, standards and Part-times. On one side, alrdy no job after studies in UK, so u might as well save maxi by doing Part-times, for which Strathclyde is the best. On other, for pure MBA experince and sole University life..its Durham..

:shock:

Cheers mate,
-Brijesh

mittalricha Says

Congratulations Brijesh !! I am still waiting for the interview call from Strath and Aston..

Have u given them a call ?
If not, do so.

It looks like Starthclyde has a long list of interviews to be taken and they want to wrap up quick.

I had my Startchclyde interview. I am through with an unconditional offer to be available to me in 10 days time.

It was a very informal one with description about the course and some questions from my end. THATZ IT! It lasted for abot 15 minutes.

V

Hi gurus,

I got a reject from Durham. I have Bradford and Glasgow conditional offers and got 8/9 in IELTS.

Bradford was top 50 once, now lower down on the rankings, both FT and EIU. Glasgow doesn come up on FT but is in 70s in EIU. Also, its in Scotland.. Low class-size, big city etc are advantages to Glasgow, and the Fee is 2K less. On the other side Bradford is a very reputed name and I could account for that 2K higher fee in the living costs, have heard its dead cheap there, unlike any UK city.

Any gyan/advice reg the same is welcome..

In the joining instruction from Durham Business School.....We have to choose two foreign language cources out of the below list...

Spanish
Japanese
Mandarin (Chinese)
French
German
Arabic

My decision would be 1) Germany 2) French 3) Spanish...Let me know about your inputs....

Congratulations Brijesh !! I am still waiting for the interview call from Strath and Aston..

Congrates guys....i m in wait for a call for Strathclyde MBA interview....BTW any idea on howz Leeds University MBA...

June 11, 2009
My Strathclyde MBA interview just got over.
Firstly he introduced himself and then, started explaining about the MBA program and an overview on the semester break ups and subjects, discussion based studies and electives.
He asked me what is the current company name and designation I hold?
Nature of work and job profile (role)?
No: of employees who report to me and their designations/profile?
Then, he said , he is making an unconditional offer letter and by Monday or maximum 10 days I will be receiving a copy of it by email.
I asked him about the Indian student intake this year and He said at present the intake is fixed at 68, and 24 of them who are Asians have already accepted their offer letter. And the number are likely to arise about which they are also worried.
Then I asked him about the Business Project with a company and live-experience, he replied that there would be 1weeks of such exposures in between, but not an entire month kinds (or internship).
About scholarships, he said, there are few scholarships, but the competition is very tough, and the candidate's academics has to be really great to win them. And also, partial scholarships are not available.
So he asked whether I am still interested, and I said yes, provided, they mail me the offer letter soon.
Thats it..
All the best to all who are awaiting and looking forward to Strathclyde's MBA interview call.
Comparison between Durham MBA and Strathclyde MBA..
I found that other than Strathclyde's Brand value and Partnership-links(because of them being on HSMP-list and having triple accredition for 4 years), for any other parameter, I felt Durham any time-any day better.But again, when 1 considers doing an MBA, its always the Brand value thats most important..
So.. even am confused between both.
frankly speaking,I am biased towards Durham bcoz of their
- Option of doing either Business Project or dissertation.
- Studing in England.
- Durham University's wide-acceptance through-out UK.
- Profiles of 14/24 candidates who are given offer letters by DBS.
Why not DBS :
- Durham's 24+ Asian crowd.
- Durham's MBA takes more than 2 years to make a mark among employers and recruiters in UK and India.
Why Strathclyde:
- Strathclyde's Brand value (because of them being on HSMP-list and having triple accreditation for 4 years)
- Strathclyde's Industrial Partnership-links.
- Emphasis on Strategic management
Why Not Starthclyde:
- Scotland
- Record of only 2 MBA Indian students finding a job in UK after graduation(2007 or 2008 list)
- Durham University higherly ranked than Strathclyde university.
- Strathclyde's poor career support especailly towards internatioanal students.
@agvinod:MBA Finance related programs, other than LBS, Warwick, Manchester or those 1 Tier Univs,
Try in Cass Business School, Nottingham and Durham Finance MBA. For International Business: There is Edinburgh's 1.5 years MBA in International Business. I found it really good. Also have a look at Henley Business School (i think they have a Jan intake), and also Ashridge. All the Best!
- Brijesh

Brijesh Babu!
Jai ho!

Another option ...another confusion ?
;)

June 11, 2009

My Strathclyde MBA interview just got over.
Firstly he introduced himself and then, started explaining about the MBA program and an overview on the semester break ups and subjects, discussion based studies and electives.

He asked me what is the current company name and designation I hold?
Nature of work and job profile (role)?
No: of employees who report to me and their designations/profile?

Then, he said , he is making an unconditional offer letter and by Monday or maximum 10 days I will be receiving a copy of it by email.

I asked him about the Indian student intake this year and He said at present the intake is fixed at 68, and 24 of them who are Asians have already accepted their offer letter. And the number are likely to arise about which they are also worried.

Then I asked him about the Business Project with a company and live-experience, he replied that there would be 1weeks of such exposures in between, but not an entire month kinds (or internship).

About scholarships, he said, there are few scholarships, but the competition is very tough, and the candidate's academics has to be really great to win them. And also, partial scholarships are not available.

So he asked whether I am still interested, and I said yes, provided, they mail me the offer letter soon.

Thats it..
All the best to all who are awaiting and looking forward to Strathclyde's MBA interview call.

Comparison between Durham MBA and Strathclyde MBA..
I found that other than Strathclyde's Brand value and Partnership-links(because of them being on HSMP-list and having triple accredition for 4 years), for any other parameter, I felt Durham any time-any day better.But again, when 1 considers doing an MBA, its always the Brand value thats most important..
So.. even am confused between both.
frankly speaking,I am biased towards Durham bcoz of their
- Option of doing either Business Project or dissertation.
- Studing in England.
- Durham University's wide-acceptance through-out UK.
- Profiles of 14/24 candidates who are given offer letters by DBS.

Why not DBS :
- Durham's 24+ Asian crowd.
- Durham's MBA takes more than 2 years to make a mark among employers and recruiters in UK and India.

Why Strathclyde:
- Strathclyde's Brand value (because of them being on HSMP-list and having triple accreditation for 4 years)
- Strathclyde's Industrial Partnership-links.
- Emphasis on Strategic management

Why Not Starthclyde:
- Scotland
- Record of only 2 MBA Indian students finding a job in UK after graduation(2007 or 2008 list)
- Durham University higherly ranked than Strathclyde university.
- Strathclyde's poor career support especailly towards internatioanal students.

@agvinod:MBA Finance related programs, other than LBS, Warwick, Manchester or those 1 Tier Univs,
Try in Cass Business School, Nottingham and Durham Finance MBA. For International Business: There is Edinburgh's 1.5 years MBA in International Business. I found it really good. Also have a look at Henley Business School (i think they have a Jan intake), and also Ashridge. All the Best!

- Brijesh

what is ur gmail id so that we can talk there?

futurembagrad Says

Ustinov - Howlands Farm

What is your contact? Mob no?

\

futurembagrad Says

Ustinov - Howlands Farm

Hello,

Which accomodation u have choosen?

Ustinov - Howlands Farm

Hello,

Which accomodation u have choosen?

Hi Soumen ,
I have accepeted the offer and I have paid the 250UKP accomodation fees. I have also received the hard copy of the 250 UKP receipts.

V

Hello Guys,

Has everybody whoever accepted the Durham MBA offer, paid the advance accomodation fee of 150 UKP?

Thanks,
Soumen

Hi Soumen ,
I have accepeted the offer and I have paid the 250UKP accomodation fees. I have also received the hard copy of the 250 UKP receipts.

V

Hello Guys,

Has everybody whoever accepted the Durham MBA offer, paid the advance accomodation fee of 150 UKP?

Thanks,
Soumen

Hello Guys,

This is the statistics that I have got from Durham placement team reagrding the placement information of the year 2008

Please find our most recent Destination information which may be of interest to you:

95% of our graduates enter employment within 3 months of graduating
Average starting salary of our 2008 graduates was circa 45,000
Top functional areas in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Finance 39%
o Marketing 15%
o Consulting 12%
o General Management 12%

Top industrial sectors in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Banking / Finance 31%
o Consulting 11%
o Electronics 11%
Positions in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Professional 38%
o Senior Management 35%
o Other Board Member / Partner 12%
I hope this information will be useful to you and I hope to meet you in September.
Best wishes
Marcia
Career Development Manager

Thanks,
Soumen

Hello Guys,

Below is the information that I have got from Durham placement team regarding the placement information in the year 2008.

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95% of our graduates enter employment within 3 months of graduating
Average starting salary of our 2008 graduates was circa 45,000
Top functional areas in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Finance 39%
o Marketing 15%
o Consulting 12%
o General Management 12%

Top industrial sectors in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Banking / Finance 31%
o Consulting 11%
o Electronics 11%
Positions in which 2008 MBA graduates found employment;
o Professional 38%
o Senior Management 35%
o Other Board Member / Partner 12%
I hope this information will be useful to you and I hope to meet you in September.
Best wishes
Marcia
Career Development Manager
Thanks,
Soumen

Thanks again Futurembagrad, u are very helpful, i guess this thread owes u a lot.
yeah the selection depends on lots of factors as in the cost, loc, etc but stil can u suggest me a few good schools for either finance or international business

I have not done too much survey on the specialization in Finance. I guess Manchaster would be good. I also read that the Durham MBA (Finance) is good.

You could start from there and then take it further.

Well, It would depend on your personal choice based on specialization/cost/location etc. You'll have to do a good survery to zero down on a list of colleges.

US, No idea.


Cheers!
V

Thanks again Futurembagrad, u are very helpful, i guess this thread owes u a lot.
yeah the selection depends on lots of factors as in the cost, loc, etc but stil can u suggest me a few good schools for either finance or international business

Thanks futurembagrad,

Can you suggest me good colleges across UK which i can target for next year.
Also any idea about US colleges??
btw i scored 5 in AWA.

Thanks,
Vinod

Well, It would depend on your personal choice based on specialization/cost/location etc. You'll have to do a good survery to zero down on a list of colleges.

US, No idea.


Cheers!
V

Chill buddy!
You have got a good profile. GMAT score of 640 is pretty decent in case you are trying for UK colleges. Nothing to worry!
You can traget colleges better than Durham.

Only hinderence will be your work exp.

But I guess u would be late this year. Try to start working on you apps for next years intake by Sept itself.
Remember, early birds have better chances of getting into UK colleges.

Hope this helps!

Cheers!

V

Thanks Futurembagrad,

Can you please suggest me the colleges in UK which i can target.
Also any idea abt the US colleges.
btw i scored 5 in AWA.

Thanks,
Vinod

Thanks futurembagrad,

Can you suggest me good colleges across UK which i can target for next year.
Also any idea about US colleges??
btw i scored 5 in AWA.

Thanks,
Vinod

The consultants sell you universities listed with them dear do not believe them openly, a huge pool of indian student usually aims for cheaper medium unis, and the consultants obviously have them apart from a few good ones. Strathclyde and all arent popular in India as yet , but also have a look at the international partnerships of a college along with its repo, you will know where all people will respect your MBA all the more.

hey all, take a look at this...pg 26 will bring on smiles...but read the whole stuff if u get time
http://www.highfliers.co.uk/download/GraduateMarket09.pdf

Humm....feels good to read.

Thanks for the link.