[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If a traditional MBA better fits your needs, check out the [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]50 best online MBA programs[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Executive MBA Programs[/hen-ui-heading]
#1 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • Location-markerWest Lafayette, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,208
  • Out-of-state$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,992
  • Out-of-state$28,794
  • Retention Rate92%
  • Acceptance Rate50%
  • Students Enrolled52,211
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • Location-markerWilmington, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,443
  • Out-of-state$20,111
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,979
  • Out-of-state$20,155
  • Retention Rate85%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled17,987
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment67%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

University of North Alabama

  • Location-markerFlorence, AL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,200
  • Out-of-state$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,910
  • Out-of-state$17,820
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate73%
  • Students Enrolled10,531
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

California State University, San Bernardino

  • Location-markerSan Bernardino, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled18,510
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment74%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

University of Nevada-Reno

  • Location-markerReno, NV
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,875
  • Out-of-state$24,831
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$5,792
  • Out-of-state$22,748
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled21,791
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment31%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

Washington State University

  • Location-markerPullman, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,976
  • Out-of-state$27,052
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$12,675
  • Out-of-state$27,842
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled19,417
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

The University of Texas at Tyler

  • Location-markerTyler, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,394
  • Out-of-state$22,649
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,534
  • Out-of-state$15,498
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance Rate92%
  • Students Enrolled9,678
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment72%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

University of Hawaii at Manoa

  • Location-markerHonolulu, HI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,304
  • Out-of-state$33,336
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$15,600
  • Out-of-state$33,648
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate70%
  • Students Enrolled19,256
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Online Executive MBA Programs

Texas Southern University

  • Location-markerHouston, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,941
  • Out-of-state$18,701
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,858
  • Out-of-state$14,258
  • Retention Rate57%
  • Acceptance Rate93%
  • Students Enrolled8,469
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
[hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]
[hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Best Online Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ class=”not-prose”]Executive MBA[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]2023[/hen-ui-text]
The Best Schools [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Online Executive MBA Programs Ranking Guidelines[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”] Rankings Methodology[/hen-ui-link]
[/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing a Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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:[/hen-ui-text]
  • 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.
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-else”]What Can I Expect From an Executive MBA Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Executive MBA Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading]
  • 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.
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”careers”]Executive MBA Careers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Top Executives”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] $100,0903% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These positions often require an advanced degree and significant relevant experience. Top executives also need strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Source: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/OOH/management/top-executives.htm/”]BLS[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Administrative Services Managers”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] $101,8705% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Source: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/administrative-services-managers.htm/”]BLS[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Postsecondary Education Administrators”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] $99,9404% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]All of these professionals typically need an advanced degree and relevant experience. They also need strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Source: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm/”]BLS[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”Organizations”]Executive MBA Professional Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.amanet.org/” target=”_blank”]American Management Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] Members of AMA have access to certificate programs in areas like sales management, leadership, and emotional intelligence. The group also provides seminars and webinars on topics such as industry software, business writing, and networking.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nbmbaa.org/” target=”_blank”]National Black MBA Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] This specialty group promotes the welfare of Black business professionals. It offers membership discounts on industry training and certification opportunities and delivers the Webinar Academy, which hones professional skills in time management, negotiation, and project management.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.mbacsea.org/” target=”_blank”]MBA Career Services & Employer Alliance[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] This organization offers a yearly conference, webinars, and professional development opportunities. Its members also have access to a document library, an online community, and an exclusive job board.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”faq”]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How Long Does It Take to Complete an Executive MBA Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MBA programs often take 2-3 years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated timelines.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Can I Do With an Executive MBA?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an Executive MBA Full Time?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Generally, students pursue an executive MBA part time and continue working while earning the degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an eMBA Better Than a MBA?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an Executive MBA Worth It?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]