Executive MBA Programs

Executive MBA programs are tailored specifically for company executives.

An executive program typically spans two years with classes meeting on weekends.

Many programs do not offer specializations, but rather offer courses focused on general management skills and strategies.

Often, companies will pay for or "sponsor" an executive student. Completion of an MBA degree can help the executive climb the corporate ladder.

Executive MBA (EMBA) students typically hold senior management positions and therefore have a hectic work schedule.

Therefore, balance of family and work duties is essential for executive MBAs.

An executive program is a distinct type of program compared to the other program types...

• Many executive students are sponsored by their company, so the program tends to be more expensive than its part-time MBA counterpart. If sponsorship is not in play, loans can be used for financial support.
• The professional experience of each student contributes greatly to an executive program. There is usually a high level of experience as measured in wisdom and number of years.
• The curriculum is well constructed and specifically focused on what executives need. General management skills and a broad base in major business disciplines is what is taught. Although the program is usually two years long, it does not always include specializations.
• Executive students are fully employed so the career resources tend to be limited. In fact, in the case of an employer sponsoring an executive, it would be a conflict of interest for the student to pursue alternative career services.

An executive MBA program is best if you are in upper management and are looking for development within your existing career or company. The downsides of this type of program include the extra time and responsibility added to an executive's already hectic schedule. You will need to see if you can handle that kind of schedule.