According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of conferred master’s degrees increased by 19% in the 2010-2020 academic years. Business degrees were the most prominent subject in this period.
So, what makes business degrees so popular? MBA and executive MBA (EMBA) programs focus on skills required by leading executives. Students engage with coursework in finance, accounting, marketing, and communications. They may choose from several specializations, focusing their curricula on specific fields or roles.
This extensive knowledge can result in higher pay — Payscale data from July 2023 indicates an average base salary for professionals with MBA degrees of $96,000.
EMBAs apply to ambitious mid-career executives and managers. What started at the University of Chicago in 1943 paved the way for a new approach for business executives. The Executive MBA Council (EMBAC) reports the average EMBA student in 2022 was 39 and possessed an average of over nine years of managerial experience. Graduates also received an average 17.7% increase in pay.
Compare executive MBAs vs. MBAs to find out which program is right for you. This guide explores information on both degrees, including coursework, costs, and typical enrollees.
Curriculum of MBA and EMBA Programs
Executive MBA programs tailor their schedules and courses for working professionals in managerial roles. EMBAs offer greater flexibility and allow students to continue working while taking weekend classes. MBAs target younger professionals who may not have managerial experience.
Both full-time MBA and EMBA programs require about two years to complete. However, many EMBAs are delivered through part-time enrollment, extending this timeline. Some schools offer the same curriculum for both programs. MBA programs may require students to select a concentration, while EMBA students often customize their courses based on their professional goals.
Though coursework varies among institutions, the following list covers typical classes in MBA and EMBA programs.
The ROI of an MBA vs. EMBA
When comparing executive MBAs vs. MBAs, many candidates wonder if both programs offer worthwhile ventures. The following section explores how these degrees can deliver a return on your investment.
MBAs and EMBAs, however, are about more than the cost of tuition and the salary increase. These programs also offer skills that can set you up for long-term success and establish networking connections that can last for life. Ultimately, the value of these degrees depends on your personal and professional goals.
