MBA courses : Executive MBAs

Executive MBAs

An executive MBA is designed to help those who have already climbed the career ladder break through to the next level...

How does an executive MBA differ to a general MBA?

An executive MBA (EMBA) programme is the qualification of choice for experienced business professionals who are looking to further their knowledge and professional qualifications.

Although similar in content to a general MBA, with modules covering accounting, marketing and operations management, an EMBA takes a more practical approach to study. This is important for many students who need to fit in their studies around work commitments and already have a deep understanding of business.

As such, competition for places on EMBA programmes is fierce and entry requirements are strict. Look for EMBAs with modules covering social and corporate responsibility and entrepreneurship, as these are topical interests in the business world.

How will taking an executive MBA benefit me and my employer?

An EMBA can bring immediate benefits to your employers and yourself, as you build a network of contacts and support through your studies. More importantly, the practical projects you work on will allow you to test out new theories and ideas to see if they could improve your working environment.

This hands-on approach means many students go on to be entrepreneurial leaders.

The benefits to your salary from taking an EMBA are also clear. The Financial Times released a survey of 4,600 EMBA graduates from across the globe in 2010, and found that students could expect a median salary increase of 55% within three years of graduating.

Choosing the right course

Deciding which EMBA programme to take is hard and there is no formula that can be applied to all individuals. Ask yourself:

• Do you want to develop your abilities to operate internationally?
• What mode of study best suits your life?
• What are the entry requirements for the course you are interested in taking?
• How much does your chosen course cost and how will you fund it?
• Does the staff’s expertise match your interests? 

Some courses only accept applicants who have corporate sponsorship. Others will require you to take more than 12 weeks' leave from your job. Add in the task of juggling the programme with your personal and work life, and it’s obvious that you must have clear motivation for taking an EMBA.

Do any MBA programmes offer discounts?

If you work for a large company, your human resources department may already have a link with a particular institution or course. It's a good idea to look into these programmes first as you (and your employer) may receive a discount on tuition fees.

It's also worth applying to several business schools in order to compare your options. 

Five reasons to choose an EMBA

• Career progression
  A professional qualification is an excellent way to prove you are serious about improving yourself, as well as raising your salary
• Networking
  As a business professional, you will know it's as much about who you know as what you know. An EMBA puts you in contact with future collaborators and rivals
• New skills
  If you're running out of ideas or simply stagnating, an EMBA could revitalise your management skills
• Global exposure
  If working globally is high on your agenda, seek out an EMBA course with links abroad
• Personal challenge
  An EMBA is a tough undertaking, especially if you continue working while studying. Are you up for the challenge?