Best Online Executive MBA Programs

While an MBA program serves new and experienced professionals alike, an executive MBA program is primarily designed for mid-career professionals and executives seeking to enhance their skills. Executive MBA programs usually attract current business professionals seeking career advancement. These programs examine key areas of business, such as accounting, organizational behavior, and project management, while preparing students for leadership roles across industries.

Because executive MBA (eMBA) programs meet the educational needs of mid-career professionals and executives, they typically only admit students who are already employed and have significant professional experience. This is because they often skip the introductory material that MBA programs cover since eMBA students have already developed that foundation through their professional experience.

If a traditional MBA better fits your needs, check out the 50 best online MBA programs.

The Best Online Executive MBA Programs

Executive MBA

2023

The Best Schools

Online Executive MBA Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Rankings Methodology

Choosing a Program

When selecting an eMBA program, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure the program aligns with your professional goals ad personal needs:

  • Program Format: Many students in eMBA programs would benefit from flexible programs that offer part-time, online, or hybrid formats that fit the needs of someone who works full-time.
  • Reputation and Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies, such as AACBS or EQUIS, to ensure quality and industry recognition.
  • Networking Opportunities: Strong alumni networks and connections to industry professionals can help career advancement, especially for those who plan to job search following graduation.
  • Support Services: Programs that offer career coaching, mentoring, and post-grad resources add significant value.

Candidates should also consider factors like graduation timelines, delivery format, cost, and admission criteria. For instance, some programs require GRE scores. Applicants without those scores need to take the exam or look at other colleges.

What Can I Expect From an Executive MBA Program?

Courses for executive MBA programs examine general MBA concepts, like organizational behavior, accounting, and business ethics, while heavily emphasizing leadership concepts, such as decision-making, economic analysis, negotiation, and strategic management. Courses vary by program, but the following section outlines some common courses found in eMBA programs.

Executive MBA Curriculum

  • Ethical Leadership: This course covers ethical problem-solving and decision-making in business. Students explore the impact of culture on corporate dynamics and learn how to lead diverse teams. This class may incorporate case studies and examine models and theories of leadership.
  • Strategy Implementation: In this class, students learn how to effectively implement business strategies. Students examine common employee needs during transitions and study methods for effectively communicating upcoming changes to business plans.
  • Corporate Finance: This course covers common corporate finance topics, such as risk management, payout policies, pricing, and net present value. Students may also explore taxation and investment selections and learn how to use financial information for marketing and business planning.

Executive MBA Careers

Executive MBA programs prepare students for executive and administrative positions in fields like healthcare, education, government, and finance. The degree can also lead to careers in finance and human resource management. The following list outlines several common careers for eMBA graduates.

Top Executives

$105,350 4%

Top executives lead companies and organizations, making decisions about organizational policies, goals, and processes. Sometimes called C-level executives, they may also make hiring decisions for managerial positions, review financial reports, and determine ways to increase revenue or company performance.

These positions often require an advanced degree and significant relevant experience. Top executives also need strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Source: BLS

Administrative Services Managers

$108,390 4%

Administrative Services Managers oversee staff and make decisions about company goals and safety. They may also manage employee records and ensure company procedures adhere to health and environmental standards. These careers exist across industries like healthcare, education, finance, and government.

Administrative services managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree and relevant professional experience. They also need strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Source: BLS

Postsecondary Education Administrators

$103,960 2%

Postsecondary education administrators usually work in student affairs, admissions, or the registrar’s office in higher education institutions. Admissions administrators make decisions about enrollment, reach out to potential applicants, and help students with applications. Administrators in a school’s registrar’s office manage courses and registration, while student affairs administrators plan and organize student activities.

All of these professionals typically need an advanced degree and relevant experience. They also need strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Source: BLS

Executive MBA Professional Organizations

Executive MBA students and graduates should take advantage of professional organizations. Professional organizations offer benefits like networking, professional development, and continuing education opportunities. They may also connect members with job opportunities.

American Management Association

Members of AMA have access to certificate programs in areas like artificial intelligence, leadership, and project management. The group also provides seminars and webinars on topics such as industry software, business writing, and networking.

National Black MBA Association

This specialty group promotes the welfare of Black business professionals. It offers membership benefits, including access to a career center, and delivers programs like the Scale-Up Pitch Challenge and case competitions to foster professional development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Executive MBA Program?

MBA programs often take 2-3 years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated timelines.

What Can I Do With an Executive MBA?

An executive MBA prepares graduates for leadership positions, such like C-level executive or administrator. These roles are found across industries, including healthcare, finance, and education.

Is an Executive MBA Full Time?

Generally, students pursue an executive MBA part time and continue working while earning the degree.

Is an eMBA Better Than a MBA?

Executive MBA programs focus heavily on preparing current professionals for leadership roles in business, while MBA programs attract new and experienced professionals alike, covering more foundational business administration topics. Which is the best degree depends on a student’s goals, experience, and interests.

Is an Executive MBA Worth It?

Executive MBA programs can lead to top-level roles with strong salary potential in a variety of industries, making these programs worth the investment for many students.