Two degrees at the same time?

[Daithi]

I've just started taking CLEP/DSST tests to earn a BA in Liberal Science at TESC. I chose this degree because it seemed to be an easy path to a degree, and the BALS degree also accepts all those FEMA tests (I've got those done). Yet after spending some time on this site, I've started to consider what I'd like to do long term. I think I've decided that my end point is going to be an MBA at WGU. With this in mind, I've started to think a BSBA from TESC may be a better fit than the BALS. Another option is to earn both the BALS and the BSBA. Can anyone speak to whether or not this is a viable option? I'm assuming I need to earn an extra 30 credits beyond a single BA or BS, but since I consider those FEMA courses as freebies this isn't a big deal. If this is an option, would I also need to take two different Capstone courses? Any thoughts in general are appreciated.

[Prloko]

Are you that far along that you can't just change programs? The BSBA has very little wiggle room for free credits, so your FEMA won't do much good. The BSBA is very CLEP/DSST friendly though (at least the general managment option).

[rebel100]

I don't see what the benefit would be...I'm doing fine in the MBA at WGU with my LS degree from COSC.

I would finish the BA/BS and get started on the MBA.

[AlbaTiVo]

I agree with rebel100. I was taking classes that would overlap between my BA and the BSBA and then thought, why bother? In the time it would take me to complete the classes for the second bachelors I could be a good way into a masters degree. However, going back to school has only reminded me how much I hate it, so there is zero chance of me pursing another degree after this one

[clep3705]

Generally speaking, two bachelor's degrees are a waste of time and effort. Move on and up to a master's degree.

There is at least one exception: If the second bachelor's is a BSN, it has value because it makes you a nurse, something no other bachelor's degree can do.

[Daithi]

Thanks for the replies. I'll take the advice and just stick with the BALS. It also looks like I'd have to take quite a few more courses than just around 30 credits anyway.

I'm still early enough in the process that I can work in some of the business related courses that would be useful for the MBA. I'm moving some things around to take Micro and Macro economics. Are there any other "must take" business related courses I'll need to prepare me for the MBA? I didn't see anything about prerequisites on the WGU website, but I don't want to be completely unprepared.

[clep3705]

Business Law is always good preparation for an MBA or even life in general. Marketing and management are also worth considering.

[AlbaTiVo]

If you are definitely going with WGU then ask them for their MBA prerequisites so that you can incorporate them all into your BALS - may as well only pay for what you need.

[ryoder]

I disagree. I would switch out of the BALS and go fro the BSBA. Forget about the FEMAs. They are a sunk cost.
Lets say you don't complete the MBA, you have a BSBA and half an MBA. That is a significant amount of business knowledge and a business credential.
I switched from BALS to BSBA CIS and am glad I did.
Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with the BALS, but the knowledge you gain in the BSBA will definitely prepare you for the MBA. I learned a LOT by studying for the biz policy TECEP. The textbook was great.

Also, if you intend to do an MBA, don't try to finish your business CLEP tests too fast. Concentrate on learning the content and getting high grades on the CLEP tests.

[OE800_85]

I also agree. If you're looking to simply check a requirement box, then perhaps it doesn't really matter what you study. Now, though, you're talking about having two degrees so clearly you want more value out of your education. Much like the others have said, quality reigns over quantity. That would mean master's over bachelors, good major over two bachelors (in the general case)