Is It Really Worth Studying for an Executive MBA?

If you are looking to uplevel your professional skills and career path, you may be considering enrolling in an Executive Master in Business Administration (EMBA) program. An EMBA program is typically a two-year program geared toward professionals who have at least five years of work experience in a managerial role and are looking to uplevel their career within their current field. The average annual tuition for an EMBA program is about $75,000.

An Executive MBA gives you a competitive advantage in most fields, particularly in marketing, finance, and technology. According to Forbes, these fields in an EMBA can most likely set you up for a promotion. Having an EMBA on your resume can also help you stand out in the job market, though it is not a guarantee that you will secure certain jobs. Most EMBA students also report a salary increase after earning an Executive MBA, which is the desired return on investment for the majority of MBA students. As with typical MBA programs, Executive MBA programs provide ample networking opportunities and are ideal for professionals leaning toward entrepreneurship. 

Our Executive MBA program here at Crummer gives experienced leaders the opportunity to earn their EMBA in 20 months, with in-person classes only one weekend per month. Our curriculum focuses on global business and leadership and offers two-week-long global immersion experiences to provide a clarified understanding of global markets. 

Does an EMBA sound like your next step? Then let’s discuss the benefits of having one, the difference between an Executive MBA and an MBA, how to apply for an executive MBA program, and the careers that MBAs are essential for.

What Is an Executive MBA (EMBA)?

Executive Master of Business Administration programs are more streamlined than traditional MBA programs. EMBA programs are designed for busy professionals who can work full-time while completing an EMBA degree by offering a faster-paced course load as well as night and weekend class options. Executive MBA students tend to be higher-level professionals who seek to enhance their leadership skills so they can advance within their current career field. 

Executive MBA programs usually have more stringent entry requirements than a traditional MBA degree. EMBA programs typically do not need GMAT scores, but they do require you to have more years of work experience as well as management experience, among other factors.

At Crummer, we require that you hold a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of seven years of executive-level work experience, and we consider your educational and professional background. We also require your official transcripts, statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, and updated resume. We do not require an application fee!

Crummer’s Executive MBA vs. MBA – What’s the Difference?

So, what is the major difference between an EMBA and a traditional MBA program? The main factors that set Executive MBA programs apart are the graduate school immersion and curated EMBA classes that cater to people with more work experience. 

Traditional MBA students are more immersed in campus life and have a full-time course load that makes it difficult to maintain full-time work, whereas EMBA candidates typically work full-time and go to classes on nights and weekends. EMBA students usually obtain their graduate degree within two years, and traditional MBA programs take two to four years to complete. EMBA grads also typically complete the program with the same group of people they started with, since these programs are on a fast track. There are EMBA programs that allow you to elect from certain concentrations as well. 

Take a look at the table below to compare the differences between Crummer’s MBA program and EMBA program.

What Should I Look for in an Executive MBA Program?

Despite all the intricacies of each EMBA program, it ultimately comes down to what you are searching for in a program and what trajectory you want your career path to take. So, what exactly should you be looking for? Consider these factors when finding the EMBA program that is right for you:

• • Program format: Are the classes nights and weekends, or a specific rotating schedule? How long will the program last, and does it require you to take additional electives? Are you able to handle working full-time and going to business school?

• Admission requirements: As we have previously discussed, most EMBA programs accept candidates with at least five years of managerial experience, though many have additional years of experience in their careers. Consider how your educational and professional performance will be examined in the admissions process.

• Program reputation: Of course, you want to attend one of the best Executive MBA programs you can find. Make a list of your top EMBA programs, and learn more about the curriculum, professors, experience, and benefits of the program as well as the highlights of the school. If possible, ask EMBA grads about their experience and what they would recommend. 

• Cost: Look at tuition and fees so that you know exactly what to expect. Also, see if financial aid is available should you need it. Your employer may give you sponsorship or reimbursement for completing your EMBA, though this may be contingent on signing a contract with them. Ask and consider all costs before choosing your program. 

• Career growth: You’re considering an EMBA because you have career goals. Whether that’s moving into a higher-level position or becoming an entrepreneur, you’ll want a course load and student experience that will propel you to where you want to be. Compare programs and courses to ensure you will get the knowledge and experience you need to sharpen your leadership skills and take that next step up.

On-campus Executive MBA or Online Executive MBA?

Now for one of the biggest considerations in your EMBA decision: online or in-person? Again, the answer to this question depends on your specific lifestyle and schedule, and if you are looking for a full-time MBA program or a part-time MBA program. If you need more flexibility in when you attend class and complete B-school tasks, an online program would better fit your needs. If you prefer a more immersive experience, an on-campus program is the right pick for you. 

Online EMBA programs provide you with more flexibility in your schedule and a better work-life balance by eliminating commutes and fixed course schedules. This is ideal for caretakers, parents, or busy high-level working professionals with full-time jobs. Not only are online programs time-flexible, but they are also location-flexible. Virtual learning provides you with the opportunity to attend an EMBA program anywhere in the world and network with professionals across the globe. Online EMBA programs are typically more affordable than on-campus programs as well.

On-campus Executive MBA programs provide you with the opportunity for face-to-face interaction with your cohort and professors. However, they are more of a time commitment considering your commute. In full immersion, you form connections more organically and have the opportunity to open up class discussions. Meeting in-person is more engaging and interactive, so this is a better option if you are a hands-on or visual learner. Attending on-campus classes may also help you manage your coursework better by designating time to attend classes and work on projects. These are often an option for full-time or part-time programs.

Ultimately, choosing an online EMBA or on-campus program is determined by your individual needs and career goals. At Crummer, we provide both in-person and online courses, so there is no doubt that you will find the program that is right for you. Compare our programs to find which program fits your needs. 

Crummer’s Executive MBA Applications and Admissions

Crummer Graduate School of Business is a great place to start your Execute MBA path to the career you desire. We require EMBA candidates to possess a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum of seven years of executive-level work experience. We also holistically consider the nature of your work experience and past educational performance. Our Executive MBA students have less on-campus demand than our full-time MBA students do, as you will only attend on-campus classes one weekend per month throughout the 20-month duration.

You will want to apply as early as possible so as not to miss any deadlines. You may even receive a monetary incentive when you apply early! Our first round of EMBA applications is typically in December of the previous year compared to the fall you are planning to start the program. Check out our website for specific dates. 

To apply to Crummer’s EMBA program, simply create an account and get started! For your application, you will need the following:

• An updated resume
• Letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose
• Official transcripts

We do not require you to provide GMAT scores for the Executive MBA program, and there is no application fee! Apply now to take the first step in your career advancement.

Executive MBA Careers

If you spend nearly two years obtaining your Master of Business degree, chances are that you are looking to advance to a higher position with a higher salary. For the Executive MBA route, that typically means staying within your field and moving up to the next leadership role, or even landing a C-suite spot.

An executive MBA gives you a competitive edge in nearly every concentration, particularly in finance, marketing, and technology. An EMBA in these fields can help you land titles such as:

• Chief financial officer
• Business analyst
• Senior project manager
• Business development manager
• Vice president of operations

You guessed it — with more responsibility comes more money. Reports show that EMBA students’ salaries increased by more than 14% upon completion of their degree and see an average salary of more than $193,000 that continues to rise within three years of graduating. Talk about a return on your investment!

It’s not all about the money, however. Executive MBA grads take sharpened skills to the next step in their career, which only makes them more successful in the long run. The Executive MBA curriculum is designed to build upon your leadership skills, strategic thinking, decision-making skills, and personal development. Overall, the skills you learn and the network you create within your EMBA program give you the confidence to step into your new role and set you up to achieve your career goals.

Is an Executive MBA Worth It?

So… is it really worth studying for an Executive MBA? It takes a lot of time, money, and effort to complete an EMBA program. However, the specialized curriculum and fast-paced schedule allow you to maintain more of a work-life balance while attending the program. If you opt for an online program, you will likely have even more flexibility to tailor the program to your lifestyle demands.

By the end, you have earned a highly valuable degree in less time than a traditional MBA program and have sharpened the skills that will make you an incredible asset to your next role or in starting your own business. You will be earning a higher salary and have greater responsibility in your role that requires you to exercise your freshly sharpened skills. For the rest of your career, you will be available to the network and relationships you built within the program.

Does an MBA program sound like the next step in getting you to where you want to be in your career path? Crummer allows you to choose between five unique and accredited MBA programs. With full-time and part-time options as well as online and in-person classes, there is an MBA program that will fit your needs and accelerate your career. The investment for our most popular MBA program starts at $93,000.

If you are ready to begin your Executive MBA journey with Crummer, then get started to level up your career!