While regular MBA programs have many standard specializations, you generally cannot specialize an Executive MBA. However, depending on the program and university, an Executive MBA programs will offer unique program content and insight into business areas that will greatly benefit executives. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of graduating from an executive MBA program.

Why Students Enter Executive MBA Programs

Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are designed for high level managers and executives to help them become better, more effective leaders. Executives participate in Executive MBA programs for different reasons. For example, they want to improve their company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Others might be expanding abroad and need international management training. Still, some executives simply want to increase their understanding of the best strategies and techniques for operations, administration, entrepreneurship and information management. While executive MBA programs follow a standard format, students may specialize their executive MBA based on their school of choice. That is, a liberal arts college will offer a different approach and perspective than an international college and Ivy League university.

What are the Differences Between an MBA and Executive MBA?

A traditional MBA program offers both standard courses and allows the student to specialize in a specific business area. These MBAs can be completed directly after graduation from an undergraduate degree program. Acceptance into a traditional MBA program is based on standard criteria, such as GPA and degree concentrations. On the other hand, executive MBAs are designed specifically for business professionals who need to expand their managerial and executive leadership skills. An Executive MBA can skip the testing requirements if they have at least six years of recent business experience. In addition to this, an Executive MBA does not have specific specializations because it only concentrates on executives. Executive MBA programs are overseen through the Executive MBA Council.

Who is the Executive MBA Council?

The Executive MBA Council is the central educational organization that advocates for worldwide executive education. They offer executive courses, such as their unique Marketing and Admissions Program. They also host their annual international Executive MBA Council Conference. Additionally, they support research projects that are designed to help educational organizations understand and benchmark their program effectiveness.

What are Recommended Executive MBA Program Guidelines?

According to the Executive MBA Council, an Executive MBA participant should have at least 13 years of experience in their industry. They recommend that programs are flexible so that the students can continue working full-time. Diversity is promoted because cross-learning and creative problem solving is better with students from different types and sizes of industries. Class discussions should be based on experience and current industry issues. Team projects are recommended to encourage cross-cultural and cross-industry competency and communication. Programs for international executives should offer global traveling or internship opportunities. Teachers of Executive MBA programs should be senior faculty with solid business experience in different fields.

What are Courses are in Executive MBA Programs?

Executive MBA programs will typically offer courses about economics, managerial accounting and operations analysis. Students will learn about global leadership styles and proven leadership patterns. Modern social, political and legal issues will be explored within the framework of the economy and the business world. Strategic market management will empower executives to make better marketing decisions. Global creativity will build on the concepts of diversity and inclusion in order to teach executives how to foster a creative and productive workforce. Sustainability will teach business leaders how to protect the environment while maintaining efficiency and quality. Finally, computer and information system will enable executives to understand IT programs and infrastructures.

Related Resource: Professional MBA Jobs

In short, Executive MBA programs are designed for working managers and executives who wish to refine their business acumen and understanding. Students can specialize an Executive MBA degree through carefully selecting a program and university that meets their specific needs.