Executive MBA A-Z

Once you have made the decision to take further study, the options available to you can be overwhelming. The benefits of a full-time MBA vs EMBA, financing of your course, the admissions process and getting accepted to your chosen program are just some of the issues you will be facing.

Here are some of the essentials of the Executive MBA to help you decide the best match for you and succeed in your career aspirations.

A... is for Application

An Executive MBA takes dedication, commitment and an application that will stand out from the crowd. Admissions directors are looking for candidates with a desire to succeed and the experience that shows you’re right for the program. QS Top Executive gets advice from the experts on putting together a winning EMBA application.

B… is for business degree

One of the many unique facets of an Executive MBA is its focus on equipping students with a holistic view of management practices. Yet many potential candidates may also consider a specialized masters degree.

C… is for Career

Personal achievement, financial gain – whatever your reason for pursuing an Executive MBA, one thing is certain, your career will benefit. EMBA alum speak of promotion, career progression, business opportunities and entrepreneurial initiatives as just some of the rewards they’ve received from time spent in the business school classroom.

D… is for Deadlines

To do an Executive MBA you need to get into business school so be sure to know when application deadlines are – each school is different so go directly to the websites and find out. To get started, check out the school profiles in the latest edition of the QS TopExecutive Guide.

E… is for Executive

Business schools look for EMBA participants with a high-level of managerial or supervisory experience - on average, seven to ten years. This allows you to bring extensive industry knowledge into the classroom and, as a result, reap the rewards of your EMBA. Find out which schools could be an option for you.

F... is for finance

Securing financial support is an integral part of your Executive MBA. The program requires a significant monetary investment, but a return on that investment can be guaranteed. From loans to personal finance, employer sponsorship to remortgaging the house, get advice on your options in the finance section.

G… is for global

Gaining a global perspective within the workplace is becoming increasingly important and is something business schools have recognized as an integral part of their EMBA programs. Whether it’s discussing international issues, attending modules around the globe, or learning in a diverse classroom, find out how you can incorporate the global element into your EMBA.

H… is for hard work (and heaps of fun)

Studying for an Executive MBA is hard work. Assignments, group projects, lectures, homework– your learning abilities will be put to the test. As one EMBA alum admitted: “I think I underestimated the size of the challenge: pursuing the EMBA, having a full-time job and creating time for the family is no mean task!” So be prepared!

I… is for interviews

The business school admissions interview is perhaps the most important part of your Executive MBA application. It’s when admissions directors can get a greater understanding of who you are as an individual, both personally and professionally, and how you could contribute to their EMBA program. So, how can you ace the EMBA admissions interview?

J… is for jobs

The Executive MBA allows you to keep your job while studying. But if you’re pursuing an EMBA to embark on a career change, you’ll need to enter the job market upon graduation. That brings with it extra challenges, particularly in an overcrowded job market. So what can you do to stand out from the crowd?

K… is for knowledge

Finance, HR, management, marketing, communication, strategy… the list goes on. And it’s all knowledge you’ll acquire in the business school classroom. The Executive MBA equips participants with an overall view of the corporate environment, while the structure of EMBA programs mean you can implement your newfound knowledge immediately.

L…is for learn from the best

To be the best, you want to learn from the best, and the best can be found in the Executive MBA classroom. Gain a unique insight into the latest business practices from faculty and leading industry experts. Find out what else the professionals can teach you in the EMBA classroom.

M… is for MBAs

As an Executive MBA candidate, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing an MBA degree. From global programs to online courses, distance learning to modular based, MBAs are delivered in a range of different formats to suit you. Read one EMBA alum’s experience of choosing the right program.

N…is for network

Ask an EMBA alum what the best part of their program was and most will say the contacts they made. That’s because the business school network stays with them for life, long after their time in the EMBA classroom, bringing the potential for partnerships, discussion, advice, mentorship and friendship. Find out how to make the most of your EMBA network.

O… is for opportunities

An Executive MBA sets you up to make the most of opportunities that, pre-EMBA, you didn’t even know existed. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and ability to see, and act upon, these opportunities and turn them into valuable professional and personal accomplishments. Get advice on how to prepare for opportunities before they arise.

P… is for passing the EMBA test

If you’re thinking of pursuing an Executive MBA, you need to determine whether an EMBA is for you. This degree will give you an insight into multiple facets required to make you a better manager, leader, employee or entrepreneur. Find out if you’re EMBA material by taking our QS TopExecutive quiz.

Q…is for QS World Executive MBA Tour

The Spring 2012 QS World Executive MBA Tour is underway offering EMBA candidates a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with admissions directors from some of the world’s top business schools. But how can you make the most of these fairs? Just follow our EMBA Bootcamp: Golden rules and fair etiquette.

R... is for Return on Investment

Studying for an Executive MBA requires a lot of investment – investment of time and money. Fortunately, you can be sure of getting a return on that investment. From career opportunities to increased salary, job offers to business ventures, find out what returns on your investment you can expect from an EMBA.

S… is for support

For a truly successful and enjoyable EMBA experience you need support from all those around you. That includes family, friends, work colleagues and your manager! QS TopExecutive has some top tips to ensure you get the support you need from those at work and at home as you pursue your Executive MBA.

T… is for teamwork

A major part of your Executive MBA will be spent working with your classmates on group projects. It’s not only a chance for you to display your strengths in a team environment, but to learn from others who you will have the opportunity of working closely with. Learn what to expect from group work.