True or False: EMBA programs are only for "Executives"

August 29th, 2013
in EMBA Program Information, Helpful Tips and Advice

The answer to this question is FALSE. Although the “E” in EMBA stands for Executive, it does not mean that students are required to hold executive positions within their companies. However, most EMBA programs do require that students have at least 5 years work experience. EMBA students are “successful and looking for an education that will broaden his or her knowledge base in order manage more efficiently.” (Roos, “How Executive MBA Programs Work”)

EMBA programs provide those in middle management positions with the knowledge and leadership abilities needed to advance in their career. According to the 2012-2013 class profile for the University of Alabama EMBA program, 57 percent of students held middle management positions. About 82 percent of UA EMBA alumni received promotions upon completion of the program, and the average salary increase was 23 percent.

EMBA students represent a variety of industries as well. Last year, UA’s EMBA class was made up of students working in defense, technology, government/nonprofit, manufacturing, healthcare, service/retail, financial, telecommunications, and other industries. This diversity allows students to gain a totally different perspective and learn from a broad range of experience levels and backgrounds.

"I learned the most from accounting, as I'd never had accounting classes before. It's helped me look at my small business differently." - Robert Justice, Program Manager at Scientific Research Corporation (Defense and Space Industry) — “I learned the most from accounting, as I’d never had accounting classes before. It’s helped me look at my small business differently.” – Robert Justice, Program Manager at Scientific Research Corporation (Defense and Space Industry)

Faculty, staff, alumni and classmates from diverse business backgrounds and industries also provides an EMBA student with an excellent networking opportunity. Students from different industries can share their knowledge and experiences, and benefit from the knowledge and experiences of others as well.

Any experienced business professional from virtually any industry can benefit from an EMBA degree, even if your title doesn’t include the word “executive.”

Always remember that the best way to determine if a program is right for you is to VISIT! Talk with current students, faculty, staff or alumni, tour the campus and get a feel for what it would be like to be a student. You can also learn a lot about a program and connect with other students via social media.

Connect with the University of Alabama EMBA program on Facebook and LinkedIn.

To learn more about the program and application requirements, visit emba.ua.edu or fill out the form below to request more info, attend an information session or open classroom, or to schedule a personal interview.