Switching Profession: B.S. Arch to Business

College Majors Architecture Majors
1

<p>I have a BS Arch '11 from GA Tech and am considering switching into business, specifically human resources. Initially, I thought of getting an MBA, but I am now hesitant because of the 100k debt I would amass over the 2 years. I spoke with some HR personnel and through independent research found that being qualified as an entry/intern HR would only require one to be enrolled in a business curriculum; then one can test for certification afterward. Should I go ahead and obtain an Associate Degree in business management from a community college? Would this be a prudent choice? An A.S. seems to have little worth in the business industry nowadays, but it saves a lot of money on my part! I just need to get my foot in the door for HR so I figure an MBA was not worth investment at the moment. Instead of crippling my financial means now, I can always opt for an MBA in the future after securing a stable income in the HR field and look forward to advancement… </p>

<p>Is anyone on the same boat as me? Any advice is appreciated! Thanks.</p>

2

<p>I would think very hard about the employment possibilities and job satisfaction of an HR type in general; the trend is to outsource all backend functions of a business which includes HR (my wife’s last employer literally outsourced HR :)).</p>

3

<p>Since you have an architecture degree I would approach local architecture firms about potential employment in their HR departments. I think knowing something about the profession would be valuable. We have a substantial HR group and none of them have an MBA. Some came from construction management backgrounds, one has a BA in English, and a couple have moved up from the administrative assistant ranks. I suspect you are going to have to deal with some very low paying positions to start, but our head of HR is a partner and very well compensated.</p>

<p>rick</p>