What Is an Executive MBA?

An executive MBA, or EMBA as it’s sometimes called, was created expressly for learners with extensive business experience. The University of Chicago Booth School of Business created the first programme of its kind in 1943 [1]. The move was part of a strategy to strengthen American businesses after World War II and educate business school students with management-level work experience.

The approximately two-year degree programme is a popular and convenient option for those with several years of business and leadership experience. Much of the coursework mirrors a traditional MBA programme, but a significant distinction separates an executive MBA from an MBA. Classroom discussions in an EMBA programme tend to be more advanced, as learners in these programmes generally have more real-world business experience. According to a recent survey from the Executive MBA Council (EMBAC), the average age of someone entering an EMBA programme is 39 [2]. 

Find out more about this degree option, including what it takes to apply for an EMBA and the time commitment typically required to earn your degree. You can also explore the standard courses you will likely take, the salary outlook for EMBA holders, and the reasons you might pursue this degree option.

EMBA application requirements 

Since the structure of the EMBA focuses on those with existing business experience, the criteria for admission tend to be slightly different than those for traditional MBA programmes. Whilst admission policies vary from programme to programme, a few typical requirements include:

1. Executive Assessment (or another entrance exam)

Schools offering the EMBA may accept the Executive Assessment in place of the GMAT or GRE. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Executive Assessment is a shorter standardised test designed to assess the knowledge that experienced professionals have accumulated during their careers. It takes 90 minutes to complete, compared to the three hours for the GMAT.

2. Work experience

Executive MBA applicants typically need significant business experience, including a few years at the management level. The exact numbers vary from school to school, with some graduate-level business schools requiring a minimum of five years. According to EMBAC, executive MBA applicants have an average of 15.1 years of professional work experience, including an average of 9.2 years of experience at the management level [2].

3. Other application materials

You’ll also need to provide your transcripts and, depending on the programme, at least one professional reference. Admissions may ask you to write an essay explaining why you want to attend an EMBA programme and how it will benefit you professionally. You may also need to submit verification that you are currently employed because some programs expect you to continue working during the course. Continued employment allows you to discuss daily experiences with your classmates.

Is an executive MBA more prestigious than an MBA?

No, an executive MBA isn’t more prestigious than an MBA. Employers see both degrees as comparable. An executive MBA simply targets a different audience—individuals with significant work experience—when compared to traditional MBA programs.

Duration and programme scheduling

EMBA programmes were created for busy working professionals and typically last around two years. They usually cover coursework similar to traditional MBA programmes but in a more condensed format and with hours that allow you to work around your career. 

An executive MBA usually takes two years to complete, including summers. Depending on the program, you might have classes on Fridays, Saturdays, and weekends. Universities tend to design the schedule for working professionals, meaning you’ll be simultaneously working and immersed in intensive study. 

Common course curriculum

Your core courses will likely focus on accounting principles, leadership, analytics, and business. Still, you will also have a choice of electives to help you customise your degree experience to fit your career goals.

Whilst your curriculum will depend on the programme you choose, examples of some content from core and elective courses you may take include:

• Foundations of teamwork and leadership

• Microeconomics

• Corporate finance

• Marketing strategy

• Strategy and organisation for the information age

• International business

• Mergers and acquisitions

• Corporate valuation

• Private equity

EMBA tuition costs

The cost of an EMBA depends on the university where you choose to study. For example, Cambridge’s 2025 Executive MBA Programme costs £93,345, and the London Business School’s programme beginning September 2025 costs £129,950 [3, 4]. Some EMBA programmes offer a “bundle” within that cost. This can include an array of learning materials, such as books, and the possibility of international travel coverage. When enrolling in an EMBA programme, your employer may pitch in for a portion of the tuition cost. 

Is an Executive MBA worth it? 

By earning an EMBA, you can hone the business and management skills you already have. This credential could set you up for increased salary and advancement opportunities in your field. In many cases, you can continue working as you pursue your degree.

EMBA salary

Data from EMBAC's 2024 Student Exit Survey suggests that EMBA graduates may enjoy an increased earning potential. The survey's respondents saw an average combined increase in salary and bonuses of 19.9 per cent [2]. Additionally, businesses promoted 36 per cent of the students surveyed whilst enrolled in the EMBA programme [2]. 

The survey also showed that when students started the EMBA programme, they earned an average bonus and salary package of  203,248 USD [2].  Upon completion, that average bonus and salary package rose to an average of 243,770 USD [2]. 

Prepare for an executive MBA programme and build your skill set on Coursera

An Executive MBA is a great opportunity to further develop your skills and increase your earning potential. Experience for yourself what it’s like to earn a business degree online by taking an open degree course, such as:

• Strategic Leadership and Management Specialisation from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Storytelling and influencing: Communicate with impact from Macquarie University

• Business Sustainability in the Circular Economy from the University of London