Executive MBA Programs

Executive MBA Programs

Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are designed to enhance the careers of working executives so they may best serve their organization. Often, managers and executives are sponsored by their companies, with tuition paid in full or partially reimbursed.  These intensive, accelerated MBA degree courses are designed to augment professional leadership skills for executives in the shortest amount of time. Many of the courses focus on your career niche, whether finance, manufacturing, marketing, health care, information technology, or consulting. Admission to a program may be linked to a scheduled promotion.

These total immersion courses are typically offered on Fridays and Saturdays, enabling busy executives to climb the corporate ladder without compromising their current workplace commitments. The best executive MBA programs have an exceptional professor-to-student ratio, providing mentoring while allowing students to contribute their experience and knowledge to the curriculum.

Advantages of Executive MBA Programs

Focused, driven, and dedicated managers will find that MBA degree courses are tailored for their advancement. Courses center on real-time business problems in the global or local economy, with practical applications across the major management disciplines. They are typically offered in easily reachable locations for busy executives. The programs are designed to be completed in two years or less--shorter than their part-time MBA counterparts--enabling executives the best options for a quick career advantage.

Comparisons Between The Executive MBA and the Full-Time Program

Unlike full-time programs, executive MBA programs do not typically require internships at the end of the first year, recognizing that the executive already has exceptional experience in the field and an established business network. Executive MBA programs, unlike the full-time counterparts, may not offer specialization courses.

Scholarships, which may be available at full-time programs, are not usually available for executive MBA courses, since the student is employed and may be attending via company funding. However, loans may be available through Graduate Management Admission Council and other granting organizations.

Potential Challenges of EMBA Programs

Executives must be committed to attendance, and their organization needs to support them in this endeavor by allowing the time to travel to class. The combined study hours and existing career responsibilities may increase the burden on executives, their businesses, and their families.