An executive MBA program is a specialized program that is designed just for professionals in upper-level positions who have time-consuming schedules. While there are managers and other upper-level professionals enrolled in the traditional MBA program, the executive program has become a popular choice for prospective students who want to be able to balance their careers, their family life and their studies. If you are contemplating getting an MBA so that you can attain skills you will need in the real business world, learning about what differentiates an executive program from a traditional program is imperative. Read on, and find out the key differences before you start the application process.
The Difference Between the Job Status of an Executive and Traditional MBA
Master of Business Administration students come from all walks of life and work in virtually every industry. This is what makes an MBA such a popular degree for professionals in the business world to pursue. While diversity is just part of the student body when you are attending a business school, there are traditional programs and there are non-traditional programs where people are more similar than you might think.
What differentiates traditional and executive programs is primarily job status. MBAs who are earning a general degree from a traditional school will need an undergraduate degree and a specific number of years experience in a business field, but they can still be in an entry or mid-level occupation. Executive MBA programs, which may be abbreviated EMBAs, have a higher job status. They are full-time professionals and, many times, full-time parents. The fact that they have worked their way up the corporate ladder and become leaders within a company shows that they are ready for EMBA study. Typically, you will need at least 5 to 7 years of experience at a management level before you will be eligible for admission to and EMBA program.
How is the Structure of an EMBA Unique?
You might be wondering why you would need to take an EMBA program instead of a traditional one. After all, many people work full time and attend graduate school. While it is possible to manage both, it is much more convenient for you to enter into a program with a structure that is modular and flexible. You will attend school either at night or on rotating weekends. In addition to lectures and coursework, you will be assigned projects that must be completed before you graduate.
The rotating structure is what helps you stay focused and committed without giving up your lifestyle. Data collected in the Global Management Education Graduate Survey actually show that this convenient schedule is beneficial. According to the statistics, graduation rates for EMBAs is higher than the rates for any other type of MBA student. This is why you should seriously consider the specialized structure, if you are eligible.
There is a long list of EMBA programs that are accredited. Accreditation is key when you want to attend a business school that will prepare you for the real world. Research schools with traditional and online programs, before you start the application process. When making the time and financial commitment to earn your executive MBA, it is important that you find the program that will best fit with your work and family life.
