Top Ten Things you Should Know About the Executive MBA

What should you know about the Executive MBA, the most prestigious degree available in business schools today? QS TopExecutive takes a look at what every candidate needs to know about the EMBA.

1. The flexibility

It’s one of the most flexible qualifications out there for middle managers. Offered in a range of styles from block courses to weekend modules, although an EMBA requires a significant investment of your time, it can be worked in and around your existing professional and personal commitments.

2. It gives you soft skills

Employers want to see their staff exhibit soft skills, such as better communication, leadership, common sense and teamwork. While an EMBA gives candidates theoretical and practical business skills, it’s also true that it allows you to hone and develop those all important soft skills.

3. Return on investment, guaranteed

An EMBA requires an element of financial risk. Many candidates take out loans or dip into their savings to fund their studies. The good news is, you could reap a return on your investment in the same amount of time as it took to graduate.

4. You will be challenged

As you’re preparing for your EMBA, many alum will tell you it’s one of the most challenging things you’ll ever do in your professional life – and they’re not joking. However, once you’ve met the challenge of an Executive MBA, you’ll be able to tackle anything.

5. It’s not a specialist degree

The real value of an Executive MBA is the helicopter view of business it equips you with. You will be able to gain specialist knowledge in topics of your choice through the various modules but the essence of the EMBA is the bigger picture.

6. It’s a privilege

If you have been accepted onto one of the world’s top EMBAs, treat it as the privilege it is. The admissions process is a rigorous one and each admissions committee is looking for the best candidates for their program. Show them they’ve made the right choice.

7. Doors will open

Pursuing an Executive MBA will likely be the result of careful consideration but planning ahead for the opportunities that will likely arise post-EMBA may not be so easy. Fortunately, your newly acquired business acumen will put you in good stead to make the most of these.

8.  It’s for life

The value of your Executive MBA doesn’t just end with graduation celebrations. The network of like-minded peers you’ll become a part of and which you will be able to discuss business, strategy and opportunities with, will last a lifetime, as will the friendships formed in the classroom.

9. You will learn from your peers

It won’t just be the expert faculty teaching you in the classroom, you will learn just as much from those studying alongside you. Your fellow EMBA candidates will bring different experiences, views and approaches to business adding value to your Executive MBA degree.

10. It’s worth it!

Yes, an EMBA will require significant financial investment, and it will mean time away from family and friends, but upon completion of this prestigious business school degree you’ll feel an incredible sense of achievement and the knowledge that the short-term sacrifices have all been worth it.