Likewise, when I first took the Master of Applied Finance, the first module was Principles of Corporate Finance. The admission person was telling me how important it was, but it turned out how lousy the lecturer was. Not only were the materials already covered in my self-study certification programme, the intensive lectures were not useful. Without going through the materials, I have no idea where I do not know and utilise the time when the lecturer was around to ask questions. The lecturer was also busy talking crap rather than teaching the main topics. Although it was only particular lecturer, but I discovered that within such a tight timetable during term time, you are basically just skimming through the notes as much as possible.
If the cost difference is not $25k I would not mind, but with that huge difference between my self-study (plus workshop programme that I am going to sign up), I deserve better. Or rather, I can invest my money elsewhere better.
A friend pointed out to me – any Master programme is just basically self-study and discussion among your classmates. The lecturer basically takes a hands-off role. With one module I got a taste of how master programme is run and I swear off any master programme unless it is fully funded by the employer.
Now I enjoy my own time and target. I can fully utilise my weekends to study and adjusting my own pace (rushing if I feel I am lacking behind). I would rather mark up the questions and wait till the course starts next January before I ask the lecturer and my new classmates.