What is an Executive MBA?

what-is-an-executive-mbaAn Executive MBA, or EMBA, is a business degree at the graduate level. This type of program is much like a traditional MBA (Master of Business Administration) program except that the EMBA is geared toward accommodating the lifestyles of more seasoned business professionals who have been working in the field for some time, usually at least five years. Current managers, executives and entrepreneurs are all great candidates for this type of program.

More About an EMBA

Of course, programs will vary from school to school, but many of the components will be similar. As mentioned earlier, this degree is primarily meant for working professionals who are already in the field of business. For this reason, Executive MBA programs are very flexible. Classes may be offered during the evening or on weekends in order to accommodate the lives of busy professionals. Some programs may also be taken online. In addition, they are usually structured so that students can graduate in two years or fewer.

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The Average Student

Most EMBA students are mid-career professionals. They have a good deal of experience in their field or current position and have usually advanced somewhat in rank. They are often looking to further their career and move into positions of more responsibility, either with their current company or elsewhere. They may even have aspirations of starting their own business. Other students may simply wish to hone their skills or learn new ones for personal fulfillment or to open future doors. It’s rare to find a student who does not possess relevant, in-depth work experience in an EMBA program. Traditional MBA programs are far better suited to those without practical, on-the-job experience.

Choosing the Right Program for You

A lot goes into choosing a graduate school. First, you should decide whether you would like to take classes in-person or online. It may not matter to you, but you should know that online coursework requires students to be very self-directed and possess excellent reading comprehension skills. Much of the work in an online class is done on your own through textbook reading or videos, and receiving instructor or classmate feedback can be challenging, as everyone is busy and online at different times. You’ll need to find a college near you if you decide to study in a traditional campus setting and wish to continue working either part-time or full-time. In addition, it’s important to ask program representatives about accreditation. An accredited program ensures the likelihood that you will be receiving a quality education that is looked highly upon by potential employers.

Future Career Opportunities

You may have a certain career aspiration in mind at your current company that requires additional credentials. If not, there are some positions for which an EMBA will prepare you. Executive-level positions may open up to you when you hold a business degree at the Master’s level. You can also look to consulting position in which you advise others in business matters. Many EMBA graduates decide to put their education to work while building their own business. This is a versatile degree that offers a number of options.

An EMBA is a flexible way for current working professionals to expand their knowledge in the field of business or advance in their careers through academic study while still maintaining their jobs. An Executive MBA may be just the right fit for you if you’ve been thinking of pursuing further education.