Executive MBA (E-MBA) Programs 2025
98
Online E-MBA Programs
133
Campus E-MBA Programs
138
Total E-MBA Programs
For prospective B-Students who are looking for executive MBA programs work full-time and still want to earn an MBA, many campus and online MBA programs offer the flexibility of Part-Time or Evening and Weekend programs. If you are looking for a program that meets that bill, find a listings of the best ranked programs in the tables and charts below.
What is an Executive MBA?
An Executive MBA (EMBA) is a specialized Master of Business Administration degree designed specifically for experienced business professionals. It is a two-year program that provides a comprehensive education in business management and leadership. The target audience for this degree are business executives who have five or more years of managerial experience with an average age of students being 38 years old.
EMBA courses cover topics such as finance, accounting, marketing, operations, and strategy. EMBA students have a unique advantage because they are able to apply their experience to their coursework and gain a deeper understanding of the material. The program also helps students develop the skills needed to become successful business leaders.
Executive MBA programs will usually about 50% less time than a traditional full-time program. You will learn from the same professors and generally take the same curriculum as your full-time MBA cohorts. The tables below ranks the campus MBA programs with the best campus and online part-time MBA programs.
100 Best Ranked E-MBA Programs
Rank | University | State, City | Offered As | Global Rank |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 1 |
2 | Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis | Bloomington, IN | Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online | 2 |
3 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Weekends | 4 |
4 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 5 |
5 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Campus, Full-Time | 6 |
6 | The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Partnership, Weekends | 7 |
7 | Brigham Young University | Provo, UT | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Weekends | 8 |
8 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 9 |
9 | The University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 10 |
10 | University of South Carolina | Columbia, SC | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 11 |
11 | University of Virginia-McIntire | Charlottesville, VA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 13 |
12 | Columbia University | New York, NY | Campus, Full-Time | 15 |
13 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Partnership, Weekends | 16 |
14 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, GA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 18 |
15 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 19 |
16 | Georgetown University | Washington, DC | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 20 |
17 | University of St. Thomas-Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 24 |
18 | New York University | New York, NY | Campus, Full-Time | 25 |
19 | University of Maryland | College Park, MD | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 27 |
20 | University of California, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 28 |
21 | The University of Chicago | Chicago, IL | Campus, Full-Time | 29 |
22 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 30 |
23 | Yale University | New Haven, CT | Campus, Full-Time | 32 |
24 | University of Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 33 |
25 | The Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA | Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online | 34 |
26 | Fordham University | Bronx, NY | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 40 |
27 | Vanderbilt University | Nashville, TN | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 42 |
28 | Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Weekends | 43 |
29 | The University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 44 |
30 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Partnership, Weekends | 45 |
31 | University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 46 |
32 | Rice University | Houston, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Weekends | 47 |
33 | University of Tennessee at Knoxville | Knoxville, TN | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 49 |
34 | Washington University in St. Louis | St. Louis, MO | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 51 |
35 | Duke University | Durham, NC | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Weekends | 52 |
36 | Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, hybrid, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 53 |
37 | University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 56 |
38 | University of California, Irvine | Irvine, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 58 |
39 | University of Rochester | Rochester, NY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 59 |
40 | Baruch College-The City University of New York | New York, NY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 60 |
41 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 62 |
42 | Temple University | Philadelphia, PA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 63 |
43 | Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey-Newark/New Brunswick | Newark, NJ | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 67 |
44 | Georgia State University | Atlanta, GA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 70 |
45 | The Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 71 |
46 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Campus, Full-Time, Part-Time | 73 |
47 | University of Colorado at Boulder | Boulder, CO | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Weekends | 74 |
48 | The University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 75 |
49 | University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Weekends | 78 |
50 | Villanova University | Villanova, PA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 80 |
51 | Texas Christian University | Fort Worth, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 82 |
52 | Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 84 |
53 | Hofstra University | Hempstead, NY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 85 |
54 | University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 87 |
55 | Xavier University | Cincinnati, OH | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 89 |
56 | University of Nevada, Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 91 |
57 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 92 |
58 | Baylor University | Waco, TX | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 93 |
59 | Purdue University | West Lafayette, IN | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 95 |
60 | Purdue University Northwest | Hammond, IN | Campus, Full-Time | 99 |
61 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago, IL | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 101 |
62 | University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK | Campus, Online | 103 |
63 | College of William and Mary | Williamsburg, VA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 104 |
64 | University of San Francisco | San Francisco, CA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 106 |
65 | The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 109 |
66 | Iowa State University | Ames, IA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 113 |
67 | Tennessee State University | Nashville, TN | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 114 |
68 | Saint Mary's College of California | Moraga, CA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 115 |
69 | The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 117 |
70 | Suffolk University | Boston, MA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 118 |
71 | Colorado State University | Fort Collins, CO | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 121 |
72 | Seaver College | Malibu, CA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 125 |
73 | Tulane University | New Orleans, LA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 126 |
74 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 127 |
75 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 130 |
76 | Chapman University | Orange, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 136 |
77 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 147 |
78 | University of Oregon | Eugene, OR | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Partnership, Weekends | 152 |
79 | Hult International Business School | Cambridge, MA | Campus, Full-Time, Online | 153 |
80 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 155 |
81 | Auburn University | Auburn, AL | Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 161 |
82 | The University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 162 |
83 | Seattle University | Seattle, WA | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 165 |
84 | Washington State University | Pullman, WA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 169 |
85 | Binghamton University | Binghamton, NY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 171 |
86 | Loyola Marymount University | Los Angeles, CA | Campus, Full-Time | 175 |
87 | Saint Joseph's University | Philadelphia, PA | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 179 |
88 | Claremont Graduate University | Claremont, CA | Campus, Full-Time | 184 |
89 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 185 |
90 | Oakland University | Rochester, MI | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 187 |
91 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 194 |
92 | University of Missouri | Columbia, MO | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Weekends | 198 |
93 | Butler University | Indianapolis, IN | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 207 |
94 | Boise State University | Boise, ID | Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 213 |
95 | Creighton University | Omaha, NE | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 224 |
96 | Millsaps College | Jackson, MS | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 237 |
97 | Louisiana Tech University | Ruston, LA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 251 |
98 | Grand Valley State University | Grand Rapids, MI | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 256 |
99 | University of Wisconsin Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 257 |
100 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | Omaha, NE | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 269 |
101 | Texas Southern University | Houston, TX | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 271 |
102 | Jacksonville University | Jacksonville, FL | 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 274 |
103 | Kent State University | Kent, OH | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 281 |
104 | University of Hawaii at Manoa | Honolulu, HI | Campus, Full-Time | 283 |
105 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 286 |
106 | Cleveland State University | Cleveland, OH | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 287 |
107 | Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green, OH | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 289 |
108 | University of Connecticut | Storrs, CT | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 294 |
109 | Bradley University | Peoria, IL | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 310 |
110 | New York Institute of Technology | Old Westbury, NY | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 316 |
111 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver, CO | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 320 |
112 | The University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 322 |
113 | University of Nevada, Reno | Reno, NV | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Weekends | 324 |
114 | Prairie View A&M University | Prairie View, TX | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Weekends | 326 |
115 | The University of Tampa | Tampa, FL | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 332 |
116 | Sonoma State University | Rohnert Park, CA | Campus, Full-Time | 356 |
117 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 358 |
118 | University of Louisville | Louisville, KY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 363 |
119 | Rockhurst University | Kansas City, MO | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 371 |
120 | University of Wyoming | Laramie, WY | Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 388 |
121 | University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 391 |
122 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 400 |
123 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Part-Time, Weekends | 408 |
124 | California State University, Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends | 410 |
125 | Rollins College | Winter Park, FL | Campus, Full-Time | 412 |
126 | The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 424 |
127 | University of Louisiana at Lafayette | Lafayette, LA | Campus, Full-Time, Online | 434 |
128 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 464 |
129 | The University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler, TX | Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 493 |
130 | Nichols College | Dudley, MA | Campus, Online | 496 |
131 | Bellarmine University | Louisville, KY | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Part-Time, Weekends | 500 |
132 | Nicholls State University | Thibodaux, LA | Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time | 513 |
133 | Southeastern Louisiana University | Hammond, LA | Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends | 519 |
134 | Northeastern State University | Tahlequah, OK | Online | 795 |
If you notice any errors in the MBA program database, please contact us.
List of Most and Least Affordable Campus E-MBAs
25 Most Affordable E-MBAs
- Southeastern Louisiana University
- Nicholls State University
- Bellarmine University
- Nichols College
- The University of Texas at Tyler
- Sam Houston State University
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Rollins College
- California State University, Sacramento
- University of Central Florida
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- University of Toledo
- University of Wyoming
- Rockhurst University
- University of Louisville
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- Sonoma State University
- The University of Tampa
- Prairie View A&M University
- University of Nevada, Reno
- The University of New Mexico
- University of Colorado Denver
- New York Institute of Technology
- Bradley University
25 Most Expensive E-MBAs
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis
- University of Washington
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Northwestern University
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Brigham Young University
- Michigan State University
- The University of Georgia
- University of South Carolina
- University of Virginia-McIntire
- Columbia University
- The University of Texas at Austin
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Southern California
- Georgetown University
- University of St. Thomas-Minnesota
- New York University
- University of Maryland
- University of California, Los Angeles
- The University of Chicago
- University of Florida
- Yale University
- University of Minnesota
- The Pennsylvania State University
List of Most and Least Affordable Online E-MBAs
25 Most Affordable E-MBAs
- Northeastern State University
- Southeastern Louisiana University
- Nicholls State University
- Nichols College
- The University of Texas at Tyler
- Sam Houston State University
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
- California State University, Sacramento
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- University of Toledo
- University of Wyoming
- Rockhurst University
- University of Louisville
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- The University of New Mexico
- University of Colorado Denver
- New York Institute of Technology
- University of Connecticut
- Bowling Green State University
- Cleveland State University
- University of South Florida
- Kent State University
- Jacksonville University
- Texas Southern University
25 Most Expensive E-MBAs
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Michigan State University
- The University of Georgia
- University of Southern California
- Georgetown University
- University of St. Thomas-Minnesota
- University of Maryland
- University of Florida
- University of Minnesota
- The Pennsylvania State University
- Fordham University
- The University of Michigan
- Rice University
- University of Tennessee at Knoxville
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Duke University
- Arizona State University
- University of Utah
- University of Rochester
- Baruch College-The City University of New York
- Santa Clara University
- Temple University
Benefits of an Executive MBA
Choosing an Executive MBA program is a major decision that comes with a significant time and financial commitment. While the costs of an Executive MBA program can be high, the potential return on investment is often even higher. In addition to the opportunity to gain a valuable business degree, there are many other benefits to earning an Executive MBA.
For starters, an Executive MBA program can open up new job opportunities and promotions. Because many executive leadership positions require advanced degrees, earning an Executive MBA gives you a competitive edge. You’ll also be able to learn from experienced instructors and gain access to valuable networks, resources, and experiences that can help further your career.
An Executive MBA program can also help you become a more effective leader. Through coursework and activities, you’ll learn how to apply the latest business theories and strategies to real-world problems. As a result, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions and develop the skills necessary to become a successful executive leader.
Finally, an Executive MBA program can also provide you with the opportunity to hone your business acumen. With a comprehensive curriculum, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the business world and how to make informed decisions that can benefit your organization. Plus, you’ll gain the confidence you need to lead with authority and make an impact on your organization.
Executive MBA Programs (E-MBA)
Types of Executive MBA Programs
An E MBA program is a two-year graduate-level degree program designed for business executives who want to further their education without leaving their job. There are several types of EMBA programs available, including full-time, part-time, accelerated, and executive formats. Full-time programs are typically offered by universities, while part-time, accelerated, and executive programs are usually offered by business schools. Each type of program has its own unique curriculum, structure, and cost.
Full-time programs are typically two years in length and require students to attend classes on campus. The curriculum for this type of program is usually intensive and focuses on general management topics, such as economics, marketing, finance, accounting, and business strategy. Part-time programs are typically two to three years in length and allow students to attend classes after working hours or on weekends. The curriculum for this type of program is often more flexible and includes electives and specialized topics.
Accelerated programs are typically one year in length and offer a more intensive curriculum than full-time or part-time programs. These programs are often more expensive than other types of EMBA programs and require students to complete their coursework in a shorter period of time. Executive programs are typically offered by business schools and are designed for experienced executives who want to enhance their knowledge and skills. These programs usually focus on advanced topics and require students to complete an internship or project in addition to their coursework.
How to Choose an Executive MBA Program
Choosing the right Executive MBA program can be a difficult decision. There are many factors to consider, including cost, location, and curriculum. Luckily, there are some great resources available that can help you compare different programs and decide which one is right for you.
Fortune Magazine releases an annual ranking of the top EMBA programs, and websites like Poets&Quants provide comprehensive rankings of various EMBA programs.
Many schools provide information about their programs on their websites and may even offer virtual tours to get a better understanding of their program. Additionally, you can look into the alumni network of a given program to get a better feel of the school and its culture. Ultimately, you want to make sure that the program you choose is the best fit for you and your career goals.
Executive MBA vs Traditional MBA
An Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) and a traditional Master of Business Administration (MBA) both offer a comprehensive understanding of business and management practices. However, they cater to different career stages and have unique structures and expectations.
Executive MBA (EMBA)
Designed for mid-to-senior-level professionals, an EMBA program offers a way for individuals to earn an MBA degree without interrupting their careers.
- Work Experience: EMBA candidates typically have more work experience—often 10 years or more, with significant time in managerial or leadership roles.
- Program Structure: EMBA programs are usually part-time and designed around the schedules of busy executives. Classes often take place on weekends or in the evenings.
- Networking: The EMBA offers a unique opportunity to network with other experienced professionals, which can lead to new business opportunities.
- Cost and Sponsorship: EMBA programs can be expensive, but many candidates receive partial or full sponsorship from their employers who see value in this advanced training.
Traditional MBA
Traditional MBA programs are geared toward individuals at an earlier stage in their careers who wish to gain a broad understanding of business.
- Work Experience: Traditional MBA candidates often have less work experience, sometimes only a few years, and not necessarily in managerial roles.
- Program Structure: Traditional MBA programs are commonly full-time and require a two-year commitment, though part-time and one-year accelerated options exist.
- Internships: Traditional MBA programs often incorporate internships, allowing students to gain practical experience and potentially secure post-graduation employment.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Traditional MBA programs can also be costly, but financial aid, including scholarships and loans, is typically more widely available.
Both EMBA and traditional MBA programs have their merits and are valuable in advancing your career. The choice between the two depends largely on your career stage, professional goals, and personal circumstances.
Common Executive MBA Coursework
Most Executive MBA programs offer coursework in the same subjects as traditional MBA programs, but with a more developed focus on executive leadership. Typical courses include marketing, finance, operations, accounting, economics, and organizational behavior. Additionally, many programs allow students to customize their degree based on their career goals, by choosing from topics such as corporate strategy, global business, and entrepreneurship. Many programs also offer a capstone project or research experience in order to round out the degree. Students should research the coursework and requirements of each program to ensure they are getting the best education possible.
Ten Typical Executive MBA Classes and What You’ll Learn
1. Strategic Management: In this class, EMBA students scrutinize the complexities of business strategy formulation and execution at an executive level. They tackle real-world case studies, learning to craft, implement, and continuously adapt strategies to maintain a competitive edge. This course empowers executives to influence not just the direction of their departments but the entire business, fostering a broader, more holistic understanding of corporate strategy.
2. Marketing Management: This advanced course dissects marketing strategies, consumer behavior, and market segmentation with a focus on executive leadership. EMBA students learn to leverage marketing analytics, lead high-impact marketing initiatives, and shape the direction of a brand. These skills enable executives to drive marketing strategy and customer engagement in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
3. Financial Accounting: Delving deeper than basic accounting principles, this class covers advanced financial accounting, financial statement analysis, and corporate financial reporting. Executives learn to interpret and leverage financial data to evaluate an organization’s financial health, manage risks, and make strategic decisions affecting profitability and financial stability. This knowledge is crucial for executives who must navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape.
4. Business Analytics: This course presents sophisticated data analysis techniques, focusing on leveraging data for strategic decision-making. EMBA students learn to translate complex data sets into actionable insights. They develop skills to use predictive models, artificial intelligence, and machine learning in business applications. For today’s executives, mastering business analytics is essential to driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and creating a competitive advantage.
5. Organizational Behavior: This advanced course studies the dynamics of individual and group behavior in organizations and how to manage them effectively. Students learn to understand, predict, and influence behavior in an organizational context, with topics including leadership, motivation, team dynamics, and conflict resolution. For executives, these insights are key to driving organizational change, fostering a positive corporate culture, and enhancing employee productivity and satisfaction.
6. Operations Management: Operations Management courses in an EMBA program often dive into the complexities of global supply chain management, lean operations, and quality control. Executives learn to optimize operational processes, manage supply chains effectively, and drive efficiency, equipping them with skills necessary to oversee large, intricate operational systems.
7. Corporate Finance: This class ventures into the world of capital investment decisions, corporate financing, and risk management. For executives, understanding these areas is crucial for making decisions about investments, financing strategies, and managing financial risks to drive business growth.
8. Managerial Economics: EMBA students in this course explore economic theories as applied to managerial decision-making. They grapple with market dynamics, pricing strategies, and the economic implications of business decisions. This knowledge aids executives in making informed decisions that optimize business performance in diverse economic environments.
9. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: This course encourages EMBA students to foster a culture of innovation and navigate the intricacies of business creation and growth. From developing disruptive business models to managing a startup, executives learn to lead innovative projects and drive entrepreneurial initiatives within their organizations.
10. Leadership and Ethics: Leadership courses in an EMBA program often delve into ethical decision-making, change management, and personal leadership styles. Executives develop their unique leadership approach, learn to lead with integrity, and manage change effectively. This course is particularly relevant for senior executives responsible for setting the moral compass of their organizations and leading teams through transformative change.
Costs of an Executive MBA Program
Attending an Executive MBA program can be a costly endeavor, as the tuition for a top-tier program can range from $30,000 to $90,000. However, the potential return on investment is undeniable. Many EMBA programs offer scholarships and fellowships, and some employers may cover or subsidize the cost of an Executive MBA degree. Students should research the available options and take advantage of any that may be available to them.
It is also important to note that the cost of an EMBA program includes more than just tuition. Students should consider costs for books, travel, lodging, and any other costs associated with their program. Additionally, students should factor in the opportunity cost of taking time away from work to attend classes and complete coursework. By factoring in all associated costs, students can get a better understanding of the true cost of an Executive MBA program.
Admission Requirements for Executive MBA Programs
For those seeking an Executive MBA, admission requirements vary by school. Generally, applicants are expected to have at least five years of professional experience, a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and a GMAT or GRE score. Some programs may require additional documents such as a current resume and letters of recommendation.
Many schools also require applicants to complete an in-person or virtual interview with the admissions committee. In addition, prospective students may need to demonstrate their knowledge of business fundamentals, such as finance or accounting, through written essays or work samples. Ultimately, each school sets its own standards for admission and it is important for applicants to research each program thoroughly to understand the requirements for admission.
Six Common Admission Requirements for EMBA Programs
- Work Experience – EMBA programs set their sights on professionals who can show at least 5-10 years in the workforce. Yet, it’s not simply about duration. They focus more on those who have held leadership or managerial roles. From helming a team to steering a project or making significant strategic decisions, programs value hands-on experience in leadership.
- Academic Qualifications – A degree from an accredited university typically stands as a standard entry point for these programs. They don’t narrow their focus to a particular field of study. However, there’s a caveat. Some programs might take into consideration candidates who haven’t completed a formal education but boast a comprehensive professional background. This opens up avenues for professionals who bring a wealth of experience to the table.
- References – References have a job to do. They need to shed light on the candidate’s professional achievements, leadership acumen, and inherent qualities. It’s usually professional references that programs ask for. Whether it’s a current or former boss, a colleague, or someone else who can vouch for the candidate’s potential, these reference letters offer a multi-faceted view of the candidate to the admissions committee.
- Essays and Personal Statements – Essays and personal statements offer a stage for candidates. They get to outline their career aspirations, leadership journey, and the rationale behind choosing an EMBA. It’s the candidate’s chance to recount their story, create a personal brand, and stitch together how an EMBA can shape their career path. These essays don’t just reflect the candidate’s writing prowess but also offer a glimpse into their strategic thought process and self-awareness.
- Interviews – EMBA admissions often include interviews as a crucial component. Be it face-to-face or virtual, they allow the admissions committee to gauge a candidate’s communication skills, leadership promise, and fit for the program. The conversation might revolve around career milestones, leadership experiences, teamwork, and motivations for pursuing an EMBA. But remember, the interview isn’t a one-way street. It also offers the candidate an opportunity to evaluate the program and the institution.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – A number of EMBA programs might ask for GMAT or GRE scores as a part of the application. These standardized tests aim to evaluate analytical writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills. But many programs might let go of this requirement for candidates with extensive work experience, advanced degrees, or an impressive academic track record, acknowledging that these tests might not always paint the best picture of executive potential.
Below is a simplified table summarizing these requirements:
Admission Requirements | Description |
---|---|
Work Experience | 5-10 years of professional experience, often in leadership roles |
Academic Qualifications | An undergraduate degree |
References | Professional references attesting to work and leadership capabilities |
Essays/Personal Statements | Written documents outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing an EMBA |
Interviews | Personal interviews with the admissions committee |
GMAT/GRE Scores | May be required or waived depending on the program and the applicant’s professional experience |
Remember, each program has unique admission criteria. Always check the specific requirements of the programs you’re interested in. And remember, even if you don’t meet every single requirement, it may still be worth applying. Many programs consider the whole applicant, not just individual qualifications.