MBA of Phd?

[LSWnowwhat?]

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So here's my predicament; I'm 33 going on 34. Just received my LSW (fortunately on my first try) and am currently failing my first class (Managerial Accounting) in the first semester of my MBA program. Suffice it to say I have some concerns as to whether or not I'm suited for an MBA, or if a more logical step, given my mental/ behavioral health background and predilection for understanding human behavior might be a PHD in psychology. A Phd means alot of work at this point as far as even acceptance is concerned and I have a pretty full plate as it is. I currently work in private practice, as a BSC/MT and have another small business venture I am starting. (Not to mention the fact that I am planning a wedding for next summer). I am also under some "state board monitoring" due to some very old charges that I am working towards getting expunged, but this monitoring seems to be making a number of endeavors concerning my newly acquired LSW rather difficult. While I realize there are a number of factors to consider, I feel that I need to make some sort of bold move here, and soon. From where I stand, it looks like I need to either buckle down and attempt to slowly work through this MBA little by little while working, or go rogue and give a PhD in psychology a shot. I'm really struggling as far as what to do right now and don't feel as though I have an abundance of time to continue "mulling" over my options. Any thoughts or constructive insight/criticism would be quite helpful as I can't seems seem to come to any sort of logical conclusion for myself right now. Thanks in advance.

 

[LSWnowwhat?]

I also would like to apologize for any confusing typos. I am typing on my smartphone and am not fairing too well. The title should read "MBA OR Phd"

 

[AcronymAllergy]

The first question would be--are you a competitive applicant for PhD programs? Do you have at least a couple years' worth of research experience, solid recent GRE scores, a good undergrad/grad GPA, and strong letters of recommendation? If not, that may exclude the option, or at least delay it until you're able to shore up your application. Beyond that, while the coursework in a psychology doctoral program generally isn't a focal point, it won't be any easier than MBA classes (albeit the subject matter will be different).

You're already enrolled in the MBA program. I would say stick it out, buckle down, and get the degree. If you think you'll still want a PhD in psych afterward, work toward gathering some of the aforementioned application credentials over the next couple years and then apply after the MBA (which would be just as useful then as now).

Those are my thoughts.

 

[WisNeuro]

If you're having trouble with some of the initial MBA coursework, coursework in a reputable PhD program won't be easier. Especially when you get to the stats piece. Also, it depends on what the state board monitoring situation is and how it is resolved, but that could be a red flag on applications (grad, intern, postdoc) from here on out. I'd stick with the MBA for now.