top of page

Best Executive MBA Programs in the world

HOME  //  EXECUTIVE MBA

Executive MBA Programs - Advancing Your Career While Working Full-Time

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern business, where competition is fierce, and innovation is paramount, continuous learning has become necessary for professionals aiming to climb the ladder of success. This need for knowledge acquisition and skill enhancement has increased the popularity of Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) programs. The EMBA courses are mostly designed keeping the busy schedule of the candidates in mind. EMBA is especially for those who want to pursue further academics without hampering their current jobs or working schedule. 

​

The following article will discuss every bit of EMBA, its benefits, the top 10 MBA colleges you can consider, and everything. We will also mention the alumni's success and how EMBA structured their visions. 

 

What is an Executive MBA (EMBA)?

 

An Executive MBA program represents a significant departure from the traditional MBA structure. Designed specifically for professionals who have already accumulated substantial work experience, the EMBA allows participants to pursue an advanced degree while concurrently managing their existing professional commitments.

 

Target Audience and Admission Criteria: The participants of EMBA programs are typically seasoned corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and senior managers looking to augment their skill sets and gain a strategic edge in their careers. The selection process for EMBA programs is rigorous, considering the applicant's professional accomplishments, leadership potential, and educational background.

 

Program Duration: EMBA programs are often different from each other in terms of duration, These EMBA programs are thoughtfully crafted to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Some programs have a duration of 9 months, some 15 months, some 18 months some 21 months and few 2 years, these programs enable participants to blend their academic pursuits with their ongoing work responsibilities seamlessly.

​

Read about the FT Ranking 2023 EMBA programs  .

 

Top MBA Institutes in the World Offering Executive MBA Programs:

​

  1.) Wharton EMBA

​

An Executive MBA program, often referred to as an EMBA program, is tailored for individuals who have progressed significantly in their careers and desire to maintain their full-time employment while pursuing their education. The schedules of these programs differ but generally encompass part-time arrangements, such as weekend classes. For instance, at Wharton, EMBA participants earn an identical MBA degree as those enrolled in full-time MBA courses.

​

Application Deadline for Wharton Executive MBA:

                       

Round 1: Oct 11, 2023                     

Round 2: Jan 17, 2024

 

Class profile for Wharton Executive MBA:

​

Class Size - 278

Average Age - 37 yrs

Countries Represented - 41

Women - 34%

​

 2.) Kellogg-HKUST EMBA​

​

The Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA initiative represents a distinctive collaboration between Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. This esteemed program unites experienced senior executives from various corners of the globe, fostering a fresh mindset and a readiness to tackle exceptional hurdles. By imparting essential skills, the program empowers participants to craft strategic business judgments, effecting profound changes in their work domains and personal spheres.

 

Application Deadline for Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA 2023:

​

Round 1: 31 July 2023,

Round 2: September 30 2023

​

Countries Represented - 17

Average Age - 43 yrs

Average Work Ex 18 years

Ranked 1st 11 times by the Financial Times

​

 3.) HEC Paris

​

This program stands out for its international focus and emphasis on leadership in a global context. The participants challenge their business ideas every day and develop leadership skills. This EMBA program helps candidates learn adaptability skills for this ever-changing economic environment. 

​

Application Deadline for HEC Paris Executive MBA:

Round 1: September 4 2023

Round 2: October 2023 

Round 3: 6 November 2023

Round 4: 3 December 2023,

Round 5: 7 January 2024

Round 6: 4 February 2024

Round 7: 3 March 2024

​

HEC Paris Executive MBA Class Profile:

​

Countries Represented 50

Women - 30% 

Average Age - 40 yrs

Average Work Ex 15 years

​

 4. ESCP Business School - EMBA

​

With a global outlook, this program equips professionals with a blend of management and international business expertise. The part-time course ranked 5th overall according to the Financial Times 2022. The students can choose from over 50 electives and 6 international college campuses. 

​

Class Size - 110

Average Age - 38 yrs

Countries Represented - 35

Average Professional Experience - 13 years

​

Check The Executive MBA programs in Asia .

​

 5. MIT: Sloan Executive MBA

​

Known for innovation, research, and entrepreneurship, this program empowers participants to drive change in their industries. This rigorous 20-months long program can be chosen by the mid-career executives. The MIT Executive MBA course offers applied learning projects and advanced management practices.

​

Application Deadlines for MIT Sloan Executive MBA:

​

Round I: January 12, 2024

Round II: February 9, 2024

Round III: March 9, 2024

Round IV: April 6, 2024

Final Deadline: May 4, 2024 

​

Class Profile for MIT Sloan Executive MBA

​

Average Age - 41 yrs

International Origin - 53%

Women - 33%

Average Professional Experience - 17 years

 

 6. University of Chicago: Booth Executive MBA

​

The program emphasizes analytical thinking and leadership development, empowering professionals to tackle complex business challenges. This is the first business school in the United States that have campuses in three other continents. The program duration is 22 months. Out of these 22 months, the candidates get to spend 5 weeks with the global cohort.

​

Class Profile of the Chicago Booth Executive MBA:

​

Total number of students - 200

Students with advanced degrees - 99

Nationalities represented - 47

Average age - 37

Average years of work experience - 13

Gender - 75% male, 25% female

Average GMAT score - 704

​

Read about comparison of Executive MBA programs .

​

7. IESE Business School Executive MBA

​

IESE Executive MBA program rooted in leadership development, strategic vision, and a global perspective, preparing professionals for senior management roles. There is an international immersion of 2 weeks. The program is conducted over 4 locations

Barcelona, Madrid, Munich & Sap Paulo.

​

Deadlines for September 2023 Intake are over. New deadlines for 2024 Intake will be announced soon. The Barcelona application due in October and Munich and Sao Paulo due in December

​

Average Age - 33 yrs

Countries Represented - 20

Women - 30%

Average Professional Experience - 10 years

​

8. UCLA: Anderson/National University of Singapore Executive MBA

​

Provides a unique dual-campus experience that combines Western and Asian business insights.

​

Application Deadline - December 1, 2023 (Application fee waived)

FINAL ROUND Application Deadline - February 28, 2024 

​

​

9. IE Business School - Global EMBA

​

With a diverse and dynamic learning environment, this program hones leadership skills and exposes participants to a global network.

​

Class Profile of the IE Global Executive MBA Program:

​

Average Age - 36 yrs

Countries Represented - 30+

Average Professional Experience - 12

Duration - 16 or 20 months

Location - Online or Madrid

Fee - Euro 80,000

​

​

10. Yale School of Management Executive MBA:

​

The Yale SOM EMBA program integrates rigorous management education focusing on social responsibility and sustainability.

​

Application Deadlines for the Yale SOM Executive MBA 2024 intake:

​

Round I October 31, 2023

Round II January 29, 2024

Round III March 20, 2024

​

Class Profile for the Yale SOM Executive MBA:

​

Duration - 22 months

Average Age - 36 yrs

Women - 44%

Average Professional Experience - 14 years

​

Further comparison of EMBA programs in Asia

​

11. University of Oxford: Saïd EMBA

​

The Oxford Executive MBA is a transformative program that encourages participants to delve into intricate business challenges. It offers insights into innovation, responsible leadership, and change management to revolutionize one's own business approach. Backed by the University of Oxford's renowned academic eminence, the program prioritizes hands-on learning and effective problem-solving for executives. The experience involves becoming part of a dynamic international business school network, allowing for learning from seasoned peers, faculty, and alumni spanning various industries and global viewpoints

​

Class size - 65

Duration -  22 months and 24 months

Intakes  - 2 September (24 months) and January(22 months)

Average age - 40

Women on the program - 35%

Nationalities represented - 32

Employment sectors - 28

Fee - £106,540

​

​

12. London Business School Executive MBA

​

The Executive MBA (EMBA) offered by London Business School (LBS) is a powerful program designed to help individuals unlock their leadership potential. This comprehensive and transformative program is focused on enhancing business knowledge, leadership abilities, and networks to fast-track career growth. The EMBA is available in both London and Dubai, providing flexibility to align with individual preferences.

The EMBA empowers participants to pursue a leadership and general management trajectory, expedite career advancement, or transition from technical expertise to broader leadership roles. By enrolling in this world-renowned program, individuals can leverage it as a catalyst for progressing to higher-ranking positions, exploring new professional domains or locations, and even launching their own entrepreneurial ventures.

​

Duration - 20 months

Fees - London: £119,900 Dubai: US$ 143,955*

Executive MBA Programs in India - Full time programs

​

The full time one year IIM Executive MBA programs in India are:

​

  1. Executive MBA from IIM Ahmedabad

  2. Executive MBA from IIM Bangalore

  3. Executive MBA from IIM Calcutta

  4. Executive MBA from IIM Kozhikode

  5. Executive MBA from IIM Indore

  6. Executive MBA from IIM Lucknow

  7. Executive MBA from IIM Udaipur

​

Read about how to get into IIM Executive MBA .

Executive MBA in India without GMAT

Executive MBA Programs in India Without GMAT

​

  • ISB PGPpro - Weekend Executive MBA program offered by the Indian School of Business for professionals with 5 years or more of work experience. The application process does not require a GMAT or a GRE score.

  • ISB PGPMAX - Senior management Executive MBA program offered by the Indian School of Business for professionals with 10 years plus work experience. The application process does not require a GMAT or a GRE score.

  • IIM Ahmedabad Senior Management Program - One year hybrid format program, last to apply August 31st, 2023, program fees - INR 8,15,000 + GST.

  • IIM Bangalore PGPEM - Weekend MBA program offered by IIM Bangalore for professionals with a minimum of four years of work experience. Applications are accepted to the program from July 10, 2023, to January 25, 2024. The acceptable test scores are GMAT, GRE, CAT or the IIMB test.

  • IIM Calcutta Senior Management Program - One year hybrid format program offered by IIM Calcutta, the last date of application is 29th December, 2023. The fees for the program is Rs. 8,20,000.

  • IIM Lucknow Senior Management Program

  • UCLA PGPpro

  • SDA Bocconi IEMB

  • IIM Indore PGPMX

  • IIM Kozhikode EPGP 

  • HBS - SELPI

  • INSEAD ILPSE

  • IIT BOMBAY-WASHU EXECUTIVE MBA

  • Wharton CTO

  • UCLA AMP

  • ​

    In a world where innovation and adaptability are paramount and the demands of career and education often compete for attention, the Executive MBA programs stand as a beacon of opportunity. These programs empower professionals with advanced knowledge and the capacity to lead, inspire, and revolutionize their industries. As you contemplate your career trajectory, consider the transformative impact of an Executive MBA. This instrument can propel you to new heights while ensuring you remain steadfast in the dynamic realm of business.

    Anchor 1

    Benefits of an Executive MBA:

     

    Balancing Act: The primary allure of EMBA programs lies in their flexibility. Participants have the unique opportunity to continue their full-time jobs while concurrently pursuing a rigorous academic curriculum. This equilibrium between work and study is especially attractive for those who wish to enhance their skills without disrupting their professional momentum.

    ​

    Real-World Application: One of the distinguishing features of EMBA programs is their emphasis on immediate application. The insights gained from classroom discussions and case studies can be directly applied to the real-world challenges professionals encounter in their workplaces. This dynamic interaction between theory and practice creates a symbiotic relationship that enriches academic and professional spheres.

     

    Success Stories of EMBA Graduates:

     

    Climbing the Ladder: The journeys of EMBA graduates are a testament to the transformative potential of these programs. Many participants have risen to leadership positions within their organizations and have played pivotal roles in driving growth and innovation.

     

    Practical Wisdom: EMBA graduates often speak of how the practical knowledge gained during the program has equipped them with the tools to navigate complex business landscapes. This enhanced decision-making ability and strategic thinking have profoundly impacted their careers.

    ​

    Is an Executive MBA Right for You?:

    ​

    Self-Assessment Guide: Deciding whether an EMBA is right for you involves considering factors such as your work experience level, capacity to manage a dual commitment, and aspirations for career advancement. ISB Executive MBA is an important avenue for aspirants in India.

    ​

    Selecting the Perfect Fit: Researching various EMBA programs is essential to find the one that aligns with your professional goals. Evaluate the program structure, curriculum, faculty expertise, networking opportunities, and global exposure.

    ​

    Why an Executive MBA is Important for your career?

    ​

    An Executive MBA program is not merely an educational endeavor – it's a strategic investment in your career. By immersing themselves in an EMBA journey, professionals gain a multifaceted advantage that serves as a catalyst for substantial career growth. Beyond theoretical learning, these programs emphasize acquiring practical, industry-relevant skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace. The curriculum is carefully designed to align with the demands of modern businesses, equipping participants with leadership acumen, strategic thinking, and an enhanced ability to navigate complexities. 

    ​

    How to Choose the Right Executive MBA Program? 

     

    Selecting the right EMBA program can significantly impact the outcomes of your educational journey and subsequent career trajectory. As a working professional, your decision should be guided by program reputation, curriculum flexibility, and networking opportunities. Reputable EMBA programs are often affiliated with top-tier institutions that boast a legacy of academic excellence. The flexibility of the curriculum enables you to seamlessly integrate studies into your work routine, ensuring minimal disruption to your professional commitments. Furthermore, robust networking opportunities through class interactions, alumni networks, and industry collaborations can widen your horizons and introduce you to a world of new possibilities.  Read about the ISB PGPpro review .

    FAQs

    ​

    Is an EMBA better than MBA?

    ​

    They are more or less the same degree. Executive MBA is particularly designed for working professionals who want to continue academics beside their jobs. Even if some schools differentiate between an MBA and an EMBA, the top universities do not do that. 

     

    What is an EMBA Programme?

    ​

    An Executive MBA program represents a significant departure from the traditional MBA structure. Designed specifically for professionals who have already accumulated substantial work experience, the EMBA allows participants to pursue an advanced degree while concurrently managing their existing professional commitments.

    ​

    What is the salary after Executive MBA?

     

    The Glassdoor report says the salary package for an EMBA ranges from Rs 10,00,000 to Rs 30,00,000 annually. 

    ​

    Can Executive MBA increase salary?

    ​

    Since EMBA focuses on professional development, candidates can have a salary hike after pursuing an EMBA. 

     

    Is EMBA after MBA worth it?

     

    EMBA programs focus on leadership skills and professional development, which makes students more suitable for senior-level designations. Pursuing an EMBA after an MBA may increase employment opportunities like promotions, salary hikes, and so on. 

    ​

    What is the eligibility for Executive MBA?

     

    The candidates must secure at least 50% marks at the 10th and 12th examinations. They also must have a graduation degree in engineering, BBA, BSC, or B.Com with 50% marks and a minimum of 2 years of work experience. 

     

    Can i get a job after Executive MBA?

     

    After completing the EMBA course, you will get a job through placements of your institute. There are chances of getting opportunities in the top companies in the corporate sector.

     

    What comes after Executive MBA?

    ​

    After pursuing an Executive MBA, you can choose your designation as a brand manager, business development manager, and management consultant. 

    bottom of page