top of page

How to evaluate an EMBA vs MBA in 2024?

Updated: Oct 30

Deciding to pursue an MBA is a significant step towards career advancement and personal growth. However, choosing between an Executive MBA and a regular MBA program can be a daunting task. It is important to understand the differences between the two programs and how they can impact one's career goals and objectives.


Here are some EMBA rankings to help you evaluate the best EMBA for your career needs according to the location:

Asia/Pacific Top 10 EMBA FT Ranking 2024:


  1. Ceibs (China/Switzerland/Ghana) - rank 1

  2. Washington University: Olin (China/US) - rank 3

  3. Fudan University School of Management (China) - rank 10

  4. Guanghua-Kellogg (China/US) - rank 12

  5. CUHK Business School (Hong Kong) - rank 22

  6. HKU Business School (Hong Kong) - rank 24

  7. National University of Singapore Business School - rank 32

  8. Indian School of Business (India) - rank 40

  9. Yonsei University School of Business (South Korea) - rank 49

  10. Korea University Business School (South Korea) - rank 62


Top 10 EMBA programs in Europe according to FT 2024 EMBA Rankings:


  1. ESCP Business School (France/Germany/UK/Italy/Spain/Poland) - rank 2

  2. IESE Business School (Spain) - rank 4

  3. Trium: HEC Paris/LSE/NYU: Stern (France/US/UK) - rank 5

  4. University of Oxford: Saïd (UK) - rank 11

  5. IMD (Switzerland) - rank 17

  6. HEC Paris (France/Qatar) - rank 18

  7. IE Business School (Spain) - rank 19

  8. Essec Business School/Mannheim (France/Germany/Singapore) - rank 21

  9. SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) - rank 23

  10. University of Cambridge: Judge (UK) - rank 25


Top 10 EMBA programs in North America according to FT 2024 EMBA Rankings:


  1. Washington University: Olin (China/US) - 3

  2. MIT: Sloan (US) - 6

  3. Arizona State University: WP Carey (China/US) - 7

  4. EMBA-Global: Columbia/LBS (US/UK) - rank 7

  5. Yale School of Management (US) - rank 14

  6. University of Pennsylvania: Wharton (US) - rank 14

  7. Northwestern University: Kellogg (US) - rank 20

  8. University of Chicago: Booth (US/UK/Hong Kong) - rank 27

  9. UCLA Anderson School of Management (US) - rank 32

  10. Cornell University: Johnson/Queen's University (US/Canada) - rank 35



Executive MBA vs MBA

EMBA Programs cater to experienced professionals who wish to obtain an MBA degree while maintaining their full-time work schedule. These programs are usually completed within two years or less, and their structure allows students to balance their academic obligations with their work responsibilities. Unlike traditional MBA programs, EMBA students often attend classes once a week or in weeklong blocks, allowing them to remain fully employed while pursuing their degree. Wharton EMBA is one of the most coveted Executive MBA across the world, followed by Kellogg EMBA, HEC EMBA and many others.


The cohort experience is one of the significant advantages of enrolling in an EMBA program. EMBA students commence the program, attend classes, and complete it with the same set of individuals, promoting a sense of camaraderie and offering beneficial networking possibilities. This cohort experience allows students to build lasting relationships with their peers, who are often senior-level professionals in their fields.


EMBA programs offer a plethora of services and resources that are beneficial to the students. EMBA programs are designed to meet the unique needs of busy professionals, offering services such as registration assistance, meal provisions, and book supplies. These services enable students to focus on their studies and achieve their academic goals while maintaining their work and personal commitments.


EMBA programs provide chances for hands-on learning, growth in leadership skills, and the cultivation of a global outlook. These programs are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of experienced professionals, providing them with the tools and resources to succeed in a dynamic and complex business environment. EMBA students learn from seasoned faculty members and experienced practitioners, who bring a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom.


There are quite a few Indian programs which you can check for pursuing an Executive MBA in India.


On the other hand, traditional MBA programs offer a broader range of courses and specializations, catering to students with varying levels of experience and career goals. These programs typically require students to take a break from their careers and commit to a full-time study schedule. While traditional MBA programs offer valuable networking opportunities, they do not provide the same level of cohort experience as EMBA programs.


Whether to pursue an EMBA or a traditional MBA program depends on one's career goals, work commitments, and personal circumstances. If you are an experienced professional looking to advance your career while maintaining your work commitments, an EMBA program may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a broader range of courses and specializations or are open to taking a break from your career, a traditional MBA program may be a better fit. Ultimately, it is important to carefully consider your options and choose a program that aligns with your career aspirations and personal goals.


There are many options of applying to EMBA or equivalent programs without the GMAT.


If the idea of pursuing an Executive MBA (EMBA) has piqued your interest, you might be wondering about its potential advantages. Listed below are the top 10 reasons why pursuing an EMBA is worthwhile:


1. An EMBA program can help boost your confidence by providing you with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to succeed in your career. The program will expose you to new ideas and perspectives, and provide you with the opportunity to apply what you have learned in a real-world setting.


2. EMBA programs often include stimulating projects that allow students to apply what they have learned in a practical way. These projects offer a remarkable opportunity to acquire practical experience and cultivate new skills.


3. EMBA programs can unlock fresh prospects for professional development and personal growth. The program will expose you to new industries, companies, and markets, and provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to take advantage of these opportunities. ISB PGPpro is one such program offered by Indian School of Business at four locations in India.


4. EMBA programs are designed to develop the leadership skills of experienced professionals. The program will help you develop your strategic thinking, communication, and decision-making skills, and provide you with the tools and resources needed to become an effective leader.


5. EMBA programs frequently appeal to a diverse set of professionals from various industries and backgrounds. This diversity can provide you with a unique perspective on business and expose you to new ideas and approaches.


6. EMBA programs frequently draw in a varied group of experts from diverse sectors and backgrounds. This global perspective, coupled with the diverse student body, can be a valuable asset in today's interconnected business environment.


7. Obtaining an EMBA degree can substantially influence your income prospects. As per a survey conducted by the Executive MBA Council, the average salary boost for EMBA alumni was 14.4%.


8. EMBA programs attract high-caliber professionals with significant experience and achievements. This peer group can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and access to a powerful network of contacts. In India the IIM institutions also offer a one year full time MBA for executives.


9. EMBA programs equip students with pragmatic and relevant knowledge that can be instantly utilized in their workplace. This knowledge can aid in making sound decisions, resolving intricate issues, and enhancing business outcomes.


10. An EMBA program is a significant investment, but it can provide a great return on investment. The program will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to advance your career and achieve your personal and professional goals.


Get in touch with our expert MBA admissions consultants at GOALisB for application assistance and profile evaluation.


Join Our Community!

Stay updated with the latest MBA admission trends and tips by following us on social media:



89 views

Recent Posts

See All

How is Life at ISB?

Discover life at ISB, where academic excellence meets vibrant campus culture. Explore diverse events, world-class faculty in 2024.

Is ISB worth the high fees?

Explore the value of the ISB Hyderabad PGP program and the ISB 2025 curriculum changes. Discover how ISB focuses on leadership.

bottom of page