Hi,
I am a current student in the MIB program. I love the program and it’s a great fit, but there are many features of the MIB program that distinguish it from a traditional MBA. Depending on your background and career goals, these program features will be more or less beneficial.
As you mentioned, the MIB program is small, but the small size facilitates a lot of interaction with professors. The professors at Fletcher are extremely dedicated and accessible. Classes are a blend of MALD and MIB students, which means that the makeup of classes looks quite different than in other business programs. Students here have very diverse professional backgrounds in the private sector, government, and nonprofits, both abroad and in the US. Because the MIB program is nested in a school of international relations where the Dean is the former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, business issues are viewed through an international and geopolitical lens. The advantage of this type of education is that the MIB program trains leaders, not just managers.
My experience is that the MIB offers a lot more than a regular MBA. That said, the “MBA” is far more recognizable to recruiters and employers. Nonetheless, the challenge of marketing the MIB is partly overcome by Fletcher’s reputation and its extremely strong alumni network. I definitely recommend getting in touch with the Fletcher Admissions Office. I think the best thing to do is talk to current students and the Admissions Office will connect with students who share your professional/academic interests.
I hope this is helpful - good luck!