The Top 3 Criteria to Look For in EMBA Programs

As the business world changes and expands, becoming a true global stage, the needs and demands of business students change as well.  In recent years there has been a shift in Executive Master of Business Administration programs toward a wider, more global experience, delivering education to students that want and need a greater global perspective as they broaden their business horizons.

While a global education is important, not all programs are created equally, and there are a few key criteria students should look for when applying — especially considering that, according to the Wall Street Journal, “students are increasingly paying their own way and searching for new jobs even while they’re still enrolled.”

Students of EMBA programs need high-powered programs to match their lifestyles.  Almost all EMBA students already hold managerial positions and can’t afford to spend their time at an institution that doesn’t deliver measureable results.

For those executives planning to continue their education in an EMBA program, here is a list of the most critical criteria to look for when applying to schools:

1. Career Coaching:  Though you may already hold a managerial or executive position, it is important that the school you choose has counselors and coaches available to help identify your strengths and weaknesses, strategies to  develop your career, networking opportunities, as well as suggestions about your work style to move you up the ladder in your current (or in any) company.  Not all EMBA programs offer these services, and of those that do, not all are as comprehensive as others.  Be sure to know exactly what your school will be offering in addition to your classroom education.
2. Job Placement: Another service that should be high on your list when searching for schools is job placement.  Though you may have a job when you matriculate, you may have plans to change industries or companies (which is not uncommon among EMBA students) after or during your education.  Choosing a school with a job placement program could be the thing that makes or breaks your employment search after graduating.  EMBA’s are not cheap — they generally run between $60,000 and $150,000 — so make sure you’re getting the most out of whatever program you choose, especially if you are paying out of your own pocket.
3. Specialized Training:  Not all students who enter into EMBA programs want to change careers; some are merely looking for ways to improve their performance in their current role.   Outside the general curriculum, EMBA programs always have  electives to choose from, but some programs are very limited in the range of elective courses they offer.  Some schools, such as UCLA, offer students the opportunity to earn a certificate in a specialization if they complete four or more classes in that area.  Make sure your school offers electives in areas that are relevant to your field.

To give you an idea of some great schools that will meet these criteria:

• University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business
• Washington University Olin School
• Thunderbird School of Global Management
• University of Southern California Marshall School of Business
• Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management

These are just a few of the top schools that offer students services that go beyond education.  Search for one that fits your needs, and don’t be afraid to demand more from your institution.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Lauren Bailey, who regularly writes for accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: blauren99 @gmail.com.