The most important subject…

I wrote about some strategy for registering classes: here and here. Nonetheless, I realized that Research Methods in Business class has been severely neglected by most students.
This class teaches students how to conduct their research properly. It is also a prerequisite for doing thesis. Hence, it is often advised to students to take this class last. After all, most students tend to forget what they learnt immediately after the final exams.
However, I strongly suggest students to consider taking this class FIRST.
Why?
Because you will be able to apply its content almost immediately in other classes that require research skills & group projects.
And if you forget what you learnt? Well, you can always “sit-in” for the class again in the semester prior to your thesis to refresh your memories.
So, what do you think?

How should I register for my classes?

I'm taking specialization in General Management. I would like to complete all the lectures in 2 years time (PART TIME). Is it possible?

That means:
Year 1 Sem 1    = 3 subjects
Year 1 Sem 2    = 3 subjects
Year 1 Special   = 2 subjects
Year 2 Sem 1    = 3 subjects
Year 2 Sem 2    = 3 subjects
Year 2 Special   = 1 subjects
Total : 15 subjects
Then Year 3 Sem 1 = Thesis (6 credit hours)
Can this be possible?

THE UM MBA SAYS:

First of all, you need to differentiate between Academic year and Calendar year.  Based on your suggestion, you will graduate in August of Year 4 (since the convocation for graduation is in every August).

Overall, I think your selection is ok. However, you need to be careful in terms of the subjects that you want to register (Remember that special semester is usually reserved for elective subjects only).

Being a generalist, you actually have more selections in choosing your elective subjects. However, if you come across an electives subjects that you like, by all means, do grab it as soon as it appears. Depending on its popularity, it may not be offered for several semester to come.

Good Luck in your pursue of MBA degree.

What classes should I choose?

Registration is today. I am a bit overwhelmed by the choices available. What would you suggest?

The UM MBA says:

The academic year is divided into 3 semesters. Semester 1 (July to November), Semester 2 (December to April) and Special Semester (May to June). For further confirmation, check the handbook here.

There are no core subjects being offered during Special Semester. Only limited elective subjects are taught during Special Semester though.

Thus, during the main semester (1 & 2), almost all the core subjects will be offered. However, it is the elective subjects that are more elusive. These subjects may be postponed to another semester if:-

1. there are too few students applying for it
2. there are no lecturer available to teach the subject

Due to the above reasons, you may sometime find yourself having to wait for a long time before the class is available again. A good example is the Merger & Acquisition course. It was not available for a few semesters. When it does appear, the class was only limited to only 20 students during the special semester. (However, I believe the UM GSB has responded to the demands and increased the frequency for this popular class).

My suggestion is this:-

1. Do you know the “area of concentration” you would like to pursue?
   If you know already knows, then you should start try to outline your courses so that you’ll be able to graduate in August. (All convocation will be held in August).
2. Or are you exploring your options?
   If you’re still undecided, I will suggest that you take up the core courses first. You’ll meet up with people from various background during these courses. Seek their advise. Don’t be afraid to switch your “area of concentration”. The pursue of knowledge is more important than a piece of paper.
3. Take the elective courses you wanted the moment they’re available. Mixed it in with a few core subjects so that you’ll still have some left to take during the special semester.
4. In addition, spread out the calculation subjects, reading & research subjects and Group Project subjects. These tend to change every semester depending on the lecturers but I think you can ask around to have a good idea.

BE WISE AND RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR DECISION. I AM NOT LIABLE FOR YOUR DECISION.