There is a plethora of business schools across the world waiting for you to ask about their programs. Each has their own culture, costs, locations and student schedules. Here are some things to consider when selecting an eMBA program.
1. Cost
There is no doubt about it, an eMBA is an investment. Generally, the funding is up to you. The variance in costs is huge, ranging from $30,000 to $200,000+ so screening out some programs can be done instantly simply due to finances. Today, it is vey rare for an employer to finance a full eMBA. However, with the right business case, some may be open to partial funding.
2. Curriculum
All Executive MBA programs contain similar core subjects, so the differentiator can be the courses offered externally from the core. Some can be electives offering you a choice from a menu of courses and some are limited in their offerings outside the core subjects.
3. Program Schedule
There is a big variance in how business schools schedule their classes. Some are offered bi-weekly on weekends, others are scheduled over four days once a month and many are held onsite for one or two-weeks three to four times throughout the duration of the program which can last from 14 months to two years.
4. Location
An Executive MBA is time consuming so travel time to the business school location is paramount when assessing the programs. The joint programs can be very exhausting based on travel to multiple locations across the world and expensive, as you are required to pay for the travel yourself. You need to consider not only the costs, but time and potential jet lag when traveling long distances. However, extra travel can be worth it for the many cultural and knowledge-based experiences you will encounter.
5. Reputation
eMBA programs are ranked by several organizations. The two main rankings you should review when completing your due diligence are those published annually by QS and the Financial Times (FT). Both are very comprehensive, supported by deep research that will help you uncover the premier eMBA program to best meet your needs.
6. Brand Recognition
We live in an age where branding is important, and many opt for a business school based on the brand instead of reviewing all the other measurables. Not a good idea, unless you have the money.
7. Diversity
Interactions and conversations with your cohort from multiple geographies and ethnicities is a good learning experience too. Mixing with different cultures during study can expose you to new challenging and innovative ideas. During the admissions process, business schools will provide you with insights into their student population gender mix, nationality and professional background.
8. School Culture
Some business schools foster a collaborative environment while others have a more competitive culture across the student population. It is important to understand the school’s culture by speaking with current students and alumni to advance your understanding.
9. Alumni
Most business schools are attached to a larger university with a vast population and a massive pool of alumni that can be tapped into to advance your career. Seeking to build connections from other disciplines and geographies, this may be one of the considerations you need to weigh in your mind.
In my professional opinion as a global expert in managing and advancing the careers of eMBA candidates and alumni, this degree sets you on the path to success and high-flying at the C-suite level if you have the right attitude to combine with your newly acquired leadership and management skills.
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