Regular MBA and Executive MBA

An MBA can offer many advantages, including an increase in salary, improvement of skills, opportunities for networking and potential for professional advancement. The promotion to senior management roles, especially in fields such as investment banking, often requires an MBA. However, ambitious students often face obstacles with traditional MBA programs based on the campus. The balance between work and personal life may not match the schedule on campus and the travel time required to attend class in person. In addition, full-time programs on campus usually take two years to complete. If work and other responsibilities prevent you from attending a traditional program on campus, an Executive MBA may be the way to go. Some schools offer accelerated programs and course exemptions to experienced professionals, providing opportunities to complete the degree in just one year. Our ranking of the best online MBA programs can help you explore your options.

What is an Online MBA?

Both, respected and internationally recognized, online MBA programs focus on the development of knowledge and skills necessary for careers in business. MBA students study general thinking, the central aspects of business management and strategic decision making. The basic courses for the MBA include accounting, finance, marketing, administration, economics and commercial law. The specializations include business analysis, international business, entrepreneurship, management information systems and real estate. Students generally acquire two to five years of work experience before entering an MBA program, with graduates commonly working in consulting, operations, marketing and finance

There are several ways to boost the professional career. When it comes to advanced degrees, two great options are an MBA or an Executive MBA. Contrary to popular belief and, despite being out by a single letter, the programs are not the same. Read on to discover the difference between an MBA and an EMBA.

Entry Points

The choice between an MBA and an Executive MBA may depend on your objectives. People with 10 to 15 years of professional experience may find that EMBA programs are more rewarding. This is because the MBA curricula are designed for people with less occupational exposure. An MBA is an excellent way to advance in an industry by taking on new roles and positions.

On the other hand, an EMBA can be used to improve a set of already established business skills. That is why prospective MBA candidates should consider whether it is a better idea to wait a few years, gain experience in the industry first and then choose an EMBA.

Commitment and Student Profiles

An MBA and an EMBA require a firm commitment to complete. However, this does not mean that both programs need a 24/7 learning approach. It is likely that an EMBA candidate has a family and an attractive career that he can not leave behind. To adapt to rigid lifestyles, schools that offer EMBA programs have strategic classes at night or on weekends.

online MBA programs require a more traditional approach to learning. Classes are held mainly on the day and schedules are less flexible. That said, it’s normal for an MBA candidate to temporarily leave their job to continue the program. Due to the cost of the advanced degree, some companies offer to pay the MBA enrollment of an employee with the best performance, with the agreement that he or she will continue working for the company after graduation..

Focus of Study

When it comes to focus and curricula, MBA programs tend to be more focused on specific areas of business such as marketing or finance. The EMBA programs cover business studies from a strategic perspective, covering all aspects of the industry widely. If you want to use your title to obtain C level and director titles, then you will want to obtain an EMBA.

Acceptance Rates and Requirements

From a competitive point of view, it may be more difficult to enter an Executive MBA program due to work experience requirements and limited spaces. It is important to keep in mind that EMBA programs are not as common as MBA programs. Most top-tier universities offer a graduate MBA program. However, if you are in an area where it is difficult to find EMBA programs, that’s fine. Consider getting your EMBA online and study from the comfort of your home.

If you are young and you are looking to advance your career, then it might be worth studying an MBA. If you have an established professional career and are looking for new ways to improve your skill set, an EMBA might be more suitable for your goals.In a recent survey, it was revealed that one-year full-time MBA programs, executive MBA programs and online MBA programs have surpassed the traditional two-year full-time program in terms of application growth in all the world.

A global survey report, published by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) indicates that European programs in general, plus a full-year one-year MBA, an executive MBA and online MBA programs seem to be experiencing further growth in Applications, Two-year, half-time and flexible MBA programs around the world are showing declines this year.

"Business titles continue to be one of the most sought-after educational credentials," said Sangeet Chowfla, president and CEO of GMAC. "With the creation of more personalized business programs, such as the Master in Data Analytics, the demand for admission to the business school is spreading through a growing range of programs. With the changing competitive landscape, applicants have more options to choose from, creating a mixed image for today’s business schools.