I found your writing on the net, then your website & LinkedIn page, while researching online MBA alternatives. On that note my question is, did you evaluate UMass Lowell during your research, and if so, what won you over to Norwich?
I looked at UMASS. I had no issues with it. Norwich caught my eye because they have a program that's a year and a half (compared to two years for most). I was able to take advantage of that shorter program because I have my undergraduate degree in business and I have been working in the high tech field for a long time (in management positions). Furthermore, my GPA for my undergrad was high enough where I didn't have to take the GMAT exam.
Both of these two things is what initially drew me to Norwich. After considering those factors, I did some research on the school and found that they've been around since the beginning of time (almost) and were respected. Norwich was the first military academy in the country (before West Point, VMI and others).
I got a good feeling about the school in that my work there would be meaningful to me. I wanted a challenge and that's what I've got so far. Does this mean Norwich would be the school for you? No. But if you are looking for some of the same things I was looking for (accreditation, shorter program, no GMAT, etc...) then I would certainly suggest that you check them out.
There are other schools that have some of the things I was looking for. The University of Dallas, University of Houston-Victoria, and Texas A&M University-Commerce were just a few. Also, if you move to Texas, you would get in-state tuition, which is much cheaper than other options.
Do you have any questions about distance education or anything in this post? Feel free to contact Scott anytime!