No degree to MBA-HR in 20 months - Nodaclu's Progress Thread

[Nodaclu]

I agree that an MBA isn't necessarily what you need, although you can also look at an MBA with an HR concentration if you want.  I also don't really have an interest in an MBA, and would rather be HR-focused (I was in Compensation when I left the workforce).

In the HR world, I think certs are the way to go.  I'm not even sure you need anything higher than a BA, if it were a BSBA in HR.  With the BALS, I'm still not 100% certain you need more, but not as sure.  You might also look at WorldatWork's CBP designation, which is VERY detailed in the Benefits area (much more so than the CEBS).  LOTS of info, and fairly expensive.  Look at jobs in the field you want, look at the degrees they're looking for, and the certs.  Don't do any more than necessary, unless you want to go higher.  Even then, a lot of companies will pay for your degree, so I would wait until I got the job I wanted with the degree I had, and then look at the next level up.  Why pay for a degree that you don't need now, when your company might be more than willing to pay for it at any number of universities.

Sorry about that! I was editing my post for further clarity when you responded, but your reply actually makes perfect sense to my re-write anyway. 

Having looked at more than 40 job postings just now across the U.S. for Benefits Managers, not a single one required a Master's Degree (two didn't even require a Bachelor's - much to my amazement). About half asked for the CEBS (required or preferred), only one asked for the CBP (and that was a Comp & Benefits Mgr position that also wanted the CCP). 

That being said, I'll take a long look at both certs (along with the PHR, which many wanted along with the CEBS). But I think you're right. Especially as it pertains to Benefits Managers, the Master's might be overkill right now, and it's something I can always come back to if it appears my career is going to be blocked again by the lack of a degree.

Looks like I need to create a new plan for a BSBA!   Fortunately, I'm right at the tail end of the window where I can do it, without having to back up even more. When I checked previously, I think it meant that 21 units I've already taken can't be used. That's a major bummer, but not the end of the world.

EDIT:
BALS - 32 units to degree completion
BSBA - 60 units to degree completion

Ouch.

I wonder if splitting the difference with a BALS - HR concentration would make sense?