Executive MBA: A Stepping Stone for Working Professionals
Have you ever thought about boosting your career while still working full-time? Yes, while the options were limited till a few years back there are updates in 2024 that you should know about. There are Executive MBA programs for working professionals designed especially for professionals with a good chunk of work experience, an Executive MBA helps you climb up the career ladder without hitting pause on your job. In India professionals can either choose the one year MBA programs like the IIM Executive MBA or the programs for working professionals as discussed below:
What is an Executive MBA?
An Executive MBA is not your regular MBA. These are MBA programs for professionals who have prior work experience and now want to see themselves in higher managerial or leadership roles. In India alone there are atleast 20 programs that offer the Executive MBA for working professionals in 2024.
The deadlines for 20 leading Executive MBA programs for working professionals are:
IIM Ahmedabad Online MBA - 10 May 2024
IIM Bangalore PGPEM - 25 January 2025
SDA Bocconi Asia Center IEMB: 31 July 2024, 31 August, 30 September
ISB PGPpro - 18 August 2024
ISB PGPMAX - 1 September 2024
IIM Kozhikode EPGP (Kochi Campus & Blended Learning) - 30 June 2024 (online), Kochi Campus - 23 August 2024, 25 October 2024
IIM Vishakhapatnam EMBA - 27 March 2024
IIM Sambhalpur EMBA ( Blended Format) - April 2024
IIT Bombay WashU EMBA - November 2024
IIM Shillong WE - 3 December 2023, 12 April 2024
IIM Jammu EMBA - 31 March 2024
IIM Ranchi EMBA
GreatLakes PGXPM
XIMB EMBA
IIM Kashipur EMBA - 9 February 2024
FMS Weekend MBA
IIM Nagpur EMBA - August to October
SPJIMR PGPGM - 10 February 2024
IIM Indore PGPMX - October
IIMA Senior Management Programme - 31 January 2024
IIM Calcutta Senior Management Programme - 28 January 2024
IIM Udaipur EMBA - January 09, 2024, February 29, 2024, April 12, 2024
Executive MBA – what makes it different from the traditional MBA? Who should look at pursuing an Executive MBA?
An Executive MBA program is targeted for working professionals and business owners who want to significantly broaden their growth prospects. Some benefits of an Executive MBA program include:
Career progression without opting for a career break for education
Networking opportunities with C-suite executives and influential people from diverse industries
Developing cross-functional skills required for powerful leadership.
Learning with a senior cohort with an average of 15 years of experience
If you are looking to climb the ladder in your current organization and industry or considering international experience or seeking new jobs in top executive roles, you can consider pursuing an Executive MBA.
Here's a detailed comparison table of ISB PGPpro, and IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Feature | ISB PGPpro | IIM Bangalore PGPEM |
Duration | 18 months | 2 years |
Format | Alternate weekends (Sat-Sun), online and classroom sessions | Classes on Friday afternoons and Saturdays |
Location | Delhi (NCR), Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai | Bangalore |
International Immersion | Included, typically in a global business hub | Student exchange programs |
Degree | Certificate | MBA Degree |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree, 5+ years work experience | Graduate with 4+ years work experience, CAT/GMAT/GRE/IIMB test score |
Application Process | Online application, non-refundable fee, interviews, possible test | Online application, IIMB test, interviews in Bengaluru |
Core Areas | Business Mathematics, Accounting, Marketing, Operations, Economics, Finance | Foundational and advanced management subjects |
Learning Method | Blends online and classroom sessions, preparatory modules, case studies, simulations, industry speakers | Face-to-face sessions, experiential learning, flexibility to take a break in the second year |
Fees | INR 31,96,000 + 18% GST | Approx. INR 20,11,000 |
Financial Support | Scholarships based on financial need and merit, education loans. | Scholarships available for deserving candidates. |
Career Impact | Designed for career progression to elite executive roles | Prepares mid-to-senior level professionals for leadership roles |
Alumni Network | 15,000+ members including CXOs and founders | Strong network through IIM Bangalore’s extensive alumni community |
Read more about ISB PGPpro vs IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA
Why Go for an Executive MBA?
Career Growth: If you're eyeing that senior management position or want to add some extra zeros to your salary, an Executive MBA may be the answer. According to FT EMBA Ranking 2023, the IIM Bangalore Executive MBA for working professionals, the PGPEM ranks 41 in terms of career progress rank world wide. The IIMA PGPX on the other hand is a full time MBA offered by IIM Ahmedabad which also offers great results in terms of career growth.
Building Connections: Imagine learning and sharing a classroom with people who are managers, entrepreneurs, or leaders themselves. The networking you do here is just unmatched.
Skill Upgradation: From learning the latest in digital marketing to mastering the art of negotiation, an EMBA polishes the skills you need to lead.
Balance is Key: Most EMBAs are weekend or evening classes. So, you can work and study without tipping the work-life balance. Read about pursuing an Executive MBA in Mumbai.
Can I do an Executive MBA while working?
Absolutely, yes. Typically, an EMBA might take you around 18 to 24 months to complete. Classes could be online, offline, or a mix of both, keeping in mind the busy schedules of working folks. The curriculum covers everything from finance, marketing, to strategy, with a chance to dive deeper into areas that interest you or are booming in the business world. It's not just about lectures. Group projects, case studies, and sometimes even getting a taste of international business cultures are all part of the experience.
The main benefits of pursuing an EMBA are:
Flexible Scheduling: EMBA classes are typically scheduled on weekends or evenings, ensuring that you can attend sessions without conflicting with your work commitments.
Blended Learning Formats: Many EMBA programs incorporate online learning elements, offering a mix of in-person and virtual sessions.
Modular Approach: Certain EMBA programs are structured in a modular format, where you focus on one subject or module at a time, making it easier to manage alongside work responsibilities.
Supportive Environment: EMBA cohorts are composed of like-minded professionals who are also balancing work and study.
Application of Learning: The ability to immediately apply what you learn in your EMBA program to your current job is a significant advantage.
Career Growth without Interruption: Pursuing an EMBA allows you to grow academically and professionally without taking a career break. On the other hand you do have to take a break to pursue a 1 year MBA in India.
The main Executive MBA programs for professionals are:
IIM Ahmedabad Online MBA - 2 years, Blended MBA ( 5 on campus modules, 1 week each)
IIM Bangalore PGPEM - 2 years, Weekend MBA
SDA Bocconi Asia Center IEMB - 15 months, one week online, one week class room per month
ISB PGPpro - 18 months, Alternate weekend Classes
ISB PGPMAX - 15 months, Modular in person
IIM Kozhikode EPGP - Online
IIM Vishakhapatnam EMBA - 2 years, weekend sessions
IIM Sambhalpur EMBA ( Blended Format) - 2 Year, Mostly online
IIT Bombay WashU EMBA - Modular
IIM Shillong WE - 2 years, Live classes
IIM Jammu EMBA - 2 years, Blended mode
IIM Ranchi EMBA - 2 years, Blended mode
GreatLakes PGPM - 1 year, Full time
XIMB - 1 year full time MBA
IIM Kashipur EMBA - 2 years, Blended Mode
FMS Weekend MBA - 2 years, Evening & Weekend MBA
IIM Nagpur EMBA - 2 years, Evening & Weekend MBA at Nagpur & Pune
SPJIMR PGPGM - Both at Mumbai & Delhi - 2 years, Classes alternate weekend
IIM Indore PGPMX - Mumbai campus, 2 years Weekend classes
IIMA Senior Management Programme - 12 months, online
IIM Calcutta Senior Management Programme - 1 year online
IIM Udaipur EMBA - 2 years Online
Apart from these programs there is an option of pursuing one year MBA in India which are full time programs for professionals with prior work experience.
Who is eligible for EMBA?
Application Process for Executive MBA Programs:
What You Need: A solid professional track record, a decent academic background, and the drive to lead are what you typically need to get into an EMBA program.
Tests or No Tests: While some programs might ask for GMAT scores, some have their own test (like IIMB PGPEM, SDA Bocconi), many weigh your professional achievements and leadership potential more.
Making Your Case: Your application, your story, and recommendations from your workplace play a crucial role in your admission.
What is the minimum work experience for Executive MBA?
The minimum work experience required for an Executive MBA (EMBA) program typically varies by institution, but most programs generally require a substantial amount of professional experience due to the senior managerial focus of the curriculum. Some institutions might have lower minimum requirements (around 3-5 years in exceptional cases) or might consider the quality of experience—such as leadership roles, significant project management, or entrepreneurial ventures—over the quantity of years.
Following are the minimum work experience requirements for Executive MBA programs:
IIM Ahmedabad Online MBA - CAT/ GMAT/ GRE/ IAT Test, Min 3 years work experience.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM - GMAT/ CAT/ GRE/ IIMB Test, Min 4 years work experience
SDA Bocconi Asia Center IEMB
ISB PGPpro - No tests, Minimum 8 years work experience, ISB Essays, PI
ISB PGPMAX - No tests, Minimum 15 years work experience, ISB Essays, PI
IIM Kozhikode EPGP - EMAT test, Minimum 3 years work experience
IIM Vishakhapatnam EMBA - EMAT/ CAT/ GMAT/ GRE Test, Minimum 3 years work experience
IIM Sambhalpur EMBA ( Blended Format) - No Test score, SOP, Minimum 3 years Work experience, PI.
IIT Bombay WashU EMBA - No test, Essays, Recommendation letter, PI
IIM Shillong WE - WE-MAT test, CAT or GMAT, Minimum 3 years Work experience
IIM Jammu EMBA - CAT/GMAT/GRE score or IIM Jammu Admission Test, Minimum 3 years work experience, SOP, PI.
IIM Ranchi EMBA - No Test score, Minimum 3 years work experience, SOP, PI.
GreatLakes PGXPM - SOP, Minimum 8 years work experience, PI.
XIMB - XAT, CAT, GMAT, X-GMT, Minimum 3 years managerial work experience.
IIM Kashipur EMBA - CAT, GMAT, EMAT, Minimum 3 years work experience
FMS Weekend MBA Executive & MBA Executive Health Care Administration - SOP, Extempore, Minimum 5 years experience, SOP, PI.
IIM Nagpur EMBA - IIMNAT test score, Minimum 3 years of work experience
SPJIMR PGPGM - CAT/MAT /GMAT / ATMA/CMAT/XAT, Minimum 4 years of work experience, SOP, PI.
IIM Indore PGPMX - IIM Indore Aptitude Test, Minimum 5 years of work experience, SOP, PI.
IIMA Senior Management Programme - Minimum 10 years of work experience
IIM Calcutta Senior Management Programme - Minimum 10 years of work experience.
IIM Udaipur EMBA - GMAT/ GRE/ CAT/ IIMU Test, Minimum 3 years work experience, SOP, PI.
Contact GOALisB for assistance on the SOP writing and personal interview preparation with ISB and IIM alumni to apply to an Executive MBA for working professionals in 2024.
Let's Talk Money: Costs of Executive MBA for working professionals:
Costs Involved: EMBAs can be an investment. Tuition fees vary, but then there are books, travel, and sometimes even accommodation to think about.
Paying for It: There are options like company sponsorship, education loans, or scholarships that can make this financial journey smoother.
IIM Ahmedabad Online MBA - ~ INR 20,00,000
IIM Bangalore PGPEM fees - INR 20,11,000
ISB PGPpro fees - INR 31,51,000
SDA Bocconi - INR 21,00,000
ISB PGPMAX fees - INR 41,78,000
IIM Kozhikode EPGP fees - INR 14,70,000
IIM Vishakhapatnam EMBA fees - INR 10,80,000
IIM Sambhalpur EMBA fees - INR 12,00,000
IIT Bombay WashU EMBA fees - INR 42,00,000
IIM Shillong WE fees - INR 12,00,000
IIM Jammu EMBA fees - INR 9,92,250
IIM Ranchi EMBA fees - INR 12,50,000
GreatLakes EMBA fees - INR 11,50,000
XIMB EMBA
IIM Kashipur EMBA fees - INR 12,00,000
FMS Weekend MBA fees - INR 2,00,000
IIM Nagpur EMBA fees ( Pune & Nagpur Campuses) - INR 9,50,000
SPJIMR PGPGM - INR 9,50,000
IIM Indore PGPMX - INR 17,60,000
IIMA Senior Management Programme - INR 8,15,000
IIM Calcutta Senior Management Programme - INR 8,20,000
IIM Udaipur EMBA - INR 14,20,800
Is it worth doing an MBA for Working Professionals?
Yes, it is worth doing an MBA for working professionals due to the career boost it provides.
Switching Lanes: Looking to change your industry or role? An EMBA can be a catalyst for that change.
The Long Game: The investment in an EMBA often pays off with better positions, higher salaries, and a more fulfilling career path.
An Executive MBA goes beyond just an academic achievement; it signifies a significant moment of growth and advancement in your career and personal life.
Which MBA is best for working professionals?
Choosing the "best" MBA for working professionals depends significantly on individual career goals, industry requirements, learning preferences, and life circumstances. However, for working professionals, programs like the Executive MBA or part-time MBA are often considered ideal due to their flexibility and relevance to those with significant work experience. If you are unsure about what programs suit your needs the best, get in touch with us at GOALisB for a profile evaluation.
What is the difference between an Executive MBA or a regular 2 year MBA?
Executive MBA programs are designed for professionals with substantial managerial experience, typically 3 -15 years or more, looking to step into leadership roles without interrupting their careers.
Key Features of an Executive MBA:
Weekend or evening classes to accommodate full-time work schedules.
Peer learning from a cohort of experienced professionals.
Focus on leadership, strategy, and high-level management skills.
Opportunities for immediate application of learned concepts at work.
Networking with senior professionals and leaders.
Flexible class schedules, often in the evenings or on weekends.
Curriculum similar to full-time MBA programs, covering a broad range of business disciplines.
Longer duration than full-time MBA programs, typically taking 3-4 years to complete.
Less emphasis on the cohort experience compared to EMBAs.
Mid-career professionals who want a comprehensive MBA education with the flexibility to balance work and study.
Read further about MBA vs EMBA in more detail.
Choosing the Best Program
Assess Your Career Goals: Consider where you want to be in the next 5-10 years and which program aligns best with these aspirations.
Consider Program Flexibility: Ensure the program format suits your work schedule and personal commitments.
Evaluate the Curriculum: Look for programs that offer the skills and knowledge you need to advance in your career.
Research Networking Opportunities: Networking is a crucial component of any MBA program. Consider the quality of alumni networks and the professional backgrounds of your potential peers.
Financial Investment: Consider the cost of the program and your budget, including potential financial support from employers or scholarships.
Ultimately, the best MBA for working professionals is one that aligns with your career trajectory, fits your life commitments, and offers the learning experience and networking opportunities that will best support your professional growth.
About the Author:
Shruti P is a distinguished MBA admissions consultant with a proven track record of guiding aspiring MBA candidates through the complex admissions landscape. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of the application process and a keen eye for what top business schools seek, Shruti has successfully counseled a diverse array of students, helping them secure placements in prestigious MBA programs.