In this article, we profile the top 29 affordable online executive MBA degree programs with specializations.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook reports a favorable job outlook for top executives. These executives work in nearly every industry, from banking institutions to health care organizations. According to BLS, the overall employment for top-level execs is projected to grow eight percent over the next eight years. These jobs face extremely fierce competition. To set yourself above competition, you might consider an online executive MBA program.
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Top 30 Affordable Online Executive MBA With Specializations Methodology
We looked at over 200 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one online executive MBA with a specialization option. In cases where an executive MBA was not offered, we considered schools with online MBA programs that were well-suited for business professionals and students with three years or more experience in business, leadership, or management. We narrowed our selection of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation from a national or regional governing body, graduate tuition/fees less than $17,000 per year, and program or school rankings from a major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We listed the top 30 schools according to raw affordability.
Below is our list of the top 29 affordable online executive MBA with specialization degree programs for 2019.
#29 – Creighton University
Online Executive MBA in Healthcare Management
Omaha, Nebraska

Ranked and accredited – Creighton's online executive MBA.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,964
Creighton University offers an online executive MBA with a flexible specialization in healthcare management. A total of 45 credit hours and four, four-day on campus residencies are required. The program moves at a rigorous pace and is designed to complete in just 18 months. Online classes are taught by Creighton's esteemed faculty. These classes include executive leadership and organizational behavior, finance for healthcare managers, healthcare marketing, legal and ethical considerations in healthcare management, and strategy for healthcare organizations. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in a related field with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. Applicants must also have at least five years of management experience or clinical practice in a healthcare organization. U.S. News and World Report ranks Creighton #1 in best regional universities in the Midwest. Also, the online MBA programs rank #54 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#28 – University of Hawaii
Online Executive MBA in Health Care Management
Honolulu, Hawaii

The online executive MBA at University of Hawaii offers a health care management specialization.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,190
One of the top executive MBA online degree programs on our list to offer a specialization is from University of Hawaii. This online EMBA offers a specialty track in health care management and is ideally structured for working professionals. The health care management track offers courses in health care financial management, health policy and the legal environment, human resources leadership in health care organizations, management of health information technology and population health, and patient centered communication management in health care organizations. The program is rigorous and provides doctor of nursing practice (DNP) pathways. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Hawaii #157 in best national universities and #80 in top public schools.
#27 – Regent University
Online MBA
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Regent University's online MBA offers specializations in accounting, finance, and healthcare management, to name a few.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,326
For individuals interested in earning an online EMBA, Regent University's School of Business and Leadership offers an online MBA with several specialization options. While not an EMBA program, the MBA does appeal to working professionals. Specializations include accounting, finance and investing, healthcare management, innovation management, marketing, small business technology management, and social entrepreneurship. Classes are delivered online and include data analysis for decision making, innovation and technological success, and managerial economics. Prerequisites for admission include a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited program, transcripts and a professional resume. U.S. News and World Report ranks Regent #201 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #122 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#26 – Central Michigan University
Online MBA
Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Central Michigan University's online executive MBA is AACSB-accredited.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,870
Central Michigan University offers an online MBA that appeals to those interested in an online executive MBA. The program is AACSB International accredited and offers one specialization in enterprise systems management. Courses are delivered online and include data analysis for managers, global economic environment, managing and leading individuals and groups in organizations, and marketing-based management. While the program is fully online, students must complete a two-week face-to-face boot camp as a culminating experience. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school and undergraduate GPA of 2.7 or better. GMAT scores no more than five years old are also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Central Michigan #205 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #54 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#25 – Florida State University
Online MBA in Real Estate
Tallahassee, Florida

FSU offers an executive MBA in real estate.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,553
While the program is not considered to be an executive MBA online degree, but an online MBA, specialization options in a wide array of interests are offered. Admitted students may customize their degree by enrolling on a part-time or full-time basis. One specialization option includes real estate. This option offers a rigorous series of courses on real estate finance and analysis. The part-time program consists of 39 credits and includes classes in business conditions analysis, financial reporting and managerial control, problems in financial management, professional development, and strategy and business policy. The GMAT is required for admission. U.S. News and World Report ranks FSU #70 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#24 – James Madison University
Online Executive Leadership MBA
Harrisonburg, Virginia

James Madison University's online executive MBA requires GMAT scores and a strong undergraduate GPA.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,352
The executive MBA degree online at James Madison University is designed for working professionals who want to hold top executive and leadership positions. Admission is awarded based on the evaluation of GMAT scores, overall undergraduate GPA, cited work experience, and a minimum of five years full-time work experience. Courses are delivered online to accommodate working students. These courses include business law, corporate financial decision making, financial statement analysis, leadership through big data analysis, managing risks in global environments, and strategic organizational leadership. U.S. News and World Report ranks James Madison #6 in best regional universities in the South.
#23 – Auburn University
Online Physicians Executive MBA
Auburn, Alabama

Auburn University's online EMBA is designed for physicians.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,974
Auburn University offers an online EMBA designed for physicians who want to assume leadership roles in their practice or a healthcare position. Online lectures, five short on-campus residencies, and two travel study experiences make up the AACSB-accredited program. Courses include cost analysis and systems, financial analysis, information systems for competitive advantage, organizational leadership and ethics, quantitative decision making, and strategic analysis and competitive environment. Applicants to the PEMBA program must have a medical degree from an accredited university or medical college and have completed residency training. GRE or GMAT entrance exams are not required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Auburn #115 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#22 – Kansas State University
Online Professional MBA
Manhattan, Kansas

Kansas State University's online professional MBA requires strong GMAT scores.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,822
Kansas State University's executive MBA online degree program offers working professionals the flexibility to complete an EMBA at their own pace. Depending on the individual's previous undergraduate experience, either 36 credits or 30 credits may be required to satisfy degree requirements. Classes are delivered online and include business strategy, economic analysis for business, foundations of accounting, information technology strategy and application, and managing organizational behavior. Admission requires GMAT scores no more than five years old with a minimum score of 550 and three letters of recommendation. U.S. News and World Report ranks KSU #147 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs, including the professional MBA, rank #36 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#21 – Faulkner University
Online Executive MBA
Montgomery, Alabama

Faulkner University's online executive MBA is for working professionals with bachelor's degrees.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,750
Faulkner University's online executive MBA is open to working professionals with an earned bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university. The undergraduate degree must be in business administration or a closely related discipline with an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or better. GMAT scores no more than two years old are also required. Program courses are delivered online and include international management perspectives, legal environment of business, managerial economics, managerial finance, management information systems, and strategic management. A total of 30 credits and a comprehensive exam during the third semester are required to fulfill the degree stipulations. U.S. News and World Report ranks Faulkner #107-#141 in best regional universities in the South.
#20 – University of Kansas
Online MBA in Finance
Lawrence, Kansas

University of Kansas offers an online MBA with finance specialization.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,704
The University of Kansas offers online executive MBA programs with specializations in finance, management and leadership, and marketing. While not an EMBA, the online MBA is designed for professionals who seek executive or top leadership positions. To complete the online MBA requires 10 core business courses and focus area classes. Some of the required courses for the finance focus include advanced topics in finance, corporate finance, financial institutions and markets, and investments. Admission requires applicants hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and provide letters of recommendation. Other admission requirements should be researched on the program website. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Kansas #129 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #61 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#19 – Friends University
Online Professional MBA
Wichita, Kansas

The online executive MBA at Friends University offers several concentration options.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,637
Friends University offers online executive MBA programs, including the online professional MBA. No matter where you live, the online professional MBA delivers convenient classes for busy professionals seeking an advanced business degree. Concentration options are also available in areas like accounting, cyber security, finance, human resources, or supply chain management. Admission requires an earned bachelor's degree and a work history in a leadership role in business. Friends University is an accredited Christian university that has received rankings from major publications such as U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks Friends #124 in best regional universities in the Midwest. Also, the online MBA programs rank #205-#267 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#18 – University of Missouri
Online Executive MBA
Columbia, Missouri

University of Missouri's online executive MBA allows students to customize their degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,828
University of Missouri's executive MBA degree online is a 48-credit hour program that blends online classes with minimal campus visits. Students may choose to customize their degree by taking electives that suit career goals or interests. Most classes are delivered online and are taught by University of Missouri's experienced team of business faculty. Courses include business analytics, finance and economics, leadership development, marketing, organizational behavior, and strategy and innovation. Admission requires at least five years of professional experience, demonstrated leadership experience, an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution, and current full-time employment. GMAT and GRE scores are not required. U.S. News and World report rank University of Missouri #129 in best national universities.
#17 – Ohio University
Online MBA in Executive Management
Athens, Ohio

Ohio University's online EMBA programs include an online MBA with executive management concentration.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,715
Ohio University lands a spot on our list of online EMBA or closely related programs due to the number of specializations offered and the low cost of tuition. The online MBA program offers eight specialization options, including executive management. The program and EM specialization appeal to those who are interested in seeking professional management positions. Courses are delivered online and include ethics in the global environment, leadership and change management, and prescription analytics. Admission requires a regionally accredited bachelor's degree, two to five years professional experience, undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, and three letters of recommendation. No GMAT is required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Ohio University #171 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #89 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#16 – Bethel University
Online MBA
Saint Paul, Minnesota

18-24 months! Bethel University's online MBA.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,630
Bethel University offers an online MBA ideal for those seeking an executive MBA online degree. The program may be completed either as a fully online degree or partially online. Courses run six weeks in length, and most students complete the degree in 18-24 months on average. A dual-degree option is also available as an MBA and M.A. in strategic leadership. For the standard MBA, courses include business strategy, data analysis and decision making, global finance, leadership theory and personal agency, leading change in a changing world, and organizational diagnostics and health. Concentration options include finance, global management, healthcare administration, management, and strategy and execution. U.S. News and World Report ranks Bethel #17 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #22 in best value schools.
#15 – Louisiana Tech University
Online Professional MBA
Ruston, Louisiana

Louisiana Tech University offers an online professional MBA that is ranked and accredited.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,603
One of the most affordable online executive MBA programs on our list is from Louisiana Tech University. The professional online MBA is open to business professionals with experience as leaders in their field. The program offers online courses taught by Tier 1 research institution faculty. Some of the required courses include accounting analysis for decision making, financial management, global perspectives in management, information resource management, managerial economics, marketing management, and strategic management. The program is AACSB-accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks Louisiana Tech #230-#300 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #131 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#14 – Ball State University
Online MBA
Muncie, Indiana

Ball State University offers an online MBA with several concentrations.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,216
The online MBA at Ball State University may appeal to those seeking executive MBA degree online programs that offer flexible courses and an accelerated pace. The online MBA at Ball State also offers several concentrations that allow students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest. These concentrations include entrepreneurship, finance, health economics and policy, logistics and supply chain management, and sales management. Foundation courses, no matter which chosen specialty, include accounting and decision making, economic analysis for managers, entrepreneurial leadership, information systems, managerial finance, and statistics and quantitative methods. Ball State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 171st best national university and 91st top public school. Also, the online MBA programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#13 – University of Wisconsin
Online MBA
Whitewater, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin's online executive MBA program is highly affordable.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,927
For individuals considering an online executive MBA, University of Wisconsin offers a flexible online MBA designed to fit the schedules of busy professionals. While enrolled in the online MBA program, students have the option of pursuing their own interests by selecting an emphasis. These emphases include finance, information technology management, international business, management, marketing, and supply chain and operations management. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same business faculty who instruct on campus. Core courses include accounting foundations, economic foundations, financial management, and operations management. Admission requires an earned bachelor's from an accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks UW #65 in best regional universities in the Midwest. Also, the online MBA programs rank #28 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#12 – University of Central Florida
Online Executive Master of Health Administration
Orlando, Florida

University of Central Florida's online executive master of health administration is for working business professionals.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,875
Individuals looking for an executive MBA online degree with a health administration concentration may be interested in the online executive MHA at University of Central Florida. The EMHA program is open to individuals with a minimum of three years of relevant health care management experience. While not an MBA, the degree does emphasize a wide number of business-related topics through their online classes. The program is 100% online, geared for working professionals, and does not require any on-campus attendance. The school is also ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Central Florida #165 in best national universities.
#11 – Southeastern Louisiana University
Online Executive MBA
Hammond, Louisiana

Southeastern Louisiana University's online executive MBA is a hybrid program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,772
Southeastern Louisiana University's executive MBA online program is a hybrid degree that requires 60% face-to-face and 40% online commitment. The program also offers concentration options in accounting and finance, general business, or health care management. Classes are small in size to encourage teamwork and meaningful participation among all students. Some of the required courses include accounting for business decisions, business policy and strategy, financial policies, managerial economics, organizational theory and behavior, and statistics methods in business and economics. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southeastern Louisiana #107-#141 in best regional universities in the South. The program is one of the most affordable on our list.
#10 – Boise State University
Online MBA
Boise, Idaho

Boise State University's online EMBA program is fully online.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,754
One of the top online MBA programs on our list is from Boise State University. While not an online EMBA, the program is fully online and appeals to professionals looking for a flexible degree that can help leverage their career. With fully online courses that run eight weeks in length, the program is ideal for working students. Also, several electives allow students to tailor their degree toward interests or to meet career goals. Some of the courses offered include business plan development, design thinking and strategic management, global economics – policy and trade, managerial accounting, managerial communication, and operations and supply chain management. U.S. News and World Report ranks BSU among the top 300 best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #51 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#9 – University of Arkansas
Online Healthcare Executive MBA
Fayetteville, Arkansas

University of Arkansas offers an online executive MBA in healthcare.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,571
University of Arkansas offers an executive MBA online program with an emphasis in healthcare administration. This 44-credit hour program is designed to complete in 24 months. Applicants with at least five full years of quality work experience and a strong undergraduate academic record may be eligible for a GMAT or GRE waiver. Courses are delivered entirely online and taught by university professors. These courses include corporate financial management, economics of management and strategy, financial statement analysis for executives, health law, leadership and managing behavior in organizations, and US healthcare system. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Arkansas #152 among top national universities and #78 among top public schools.
#8 – University of Colorado
Online Executive MBA in Health Administration
Denver, Colorado

The online executive MBA at University of Colorado offers a health administration specialization.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,839
University of Colorado offers an executive MBA degree online that is designed for working professionals. The program consists of online courses and intensive on-campus sessions held for one week in July and January. Some of the required courses include ethics and health law, healthcare corporate finance, healthcare leadership, healthcare strategic management, health sector supply chain management, and management accounting in healthcare organizations. Admission requires official transcripts, letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant's professional leadership, and a self-evaluation essay. GRE or GMAT scores are not usually required. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #205 in best national universities and #112 in top public schools.
#7 – Sam Houston State University
Online Executive MBA
Huntsville, Texas

Sam Houston State University's online executive MBA consists of 36 credits.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,575
One of the top online executive MBA programs on our list is found at Sam Houston State University. This online EMBA offers a specialization in banking and financial institutions. The EMBA is well suited for qualified students from any academic discipline who have extensive experience in the financial institutions or banking field. The program consists of 36 credits with courses taught online. Courses include accounting in management, financial statement analysis, marketing management, problems in administrative finance, services management and marketing, and techniques of statistical analysis. Applicants with a bachelor's degree in business must have at least three years of work experience in a banking position. U.S. News and World Report ranks Sam Houston among the top 300 best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #100 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#6 – Texas Southern University
Online Executive MBA
Houston, Texas

Texas Southern University offers an executive online MBA designed for working professionals.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,569
The online EMBA program at Texas Southern University is offered through the Jesse H. Jones School of Business and is designed for working professionals. Students have the option of earning an executive MBA in general business or specializing their EMBA for the field of energy finance. The program consists of 12 classes for a total of 36 credits. Classes are taken online and taught by Texas Southern faculty. Courses include financial and economic analysis, information technology, managerial communication, strategic marketing management, and supply chain management. Admission to the EMBA program requires evidence of an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts, and at least five years of progressive management experience. U.S. News and World Report ranks Texas Southern #230-#301 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #179 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#5 – University of North Alabama
Online MBA
Florence, Alabama

Executive specialization option – University of North Alabama's online executive MBA.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,352
One of the most affordable programs for those interested in an executive MBA online is the MBA at University of North Alabama. This fully online degree program is designed for working professionals who seek career advancement and management jobs in a variety of organizations. The reputable program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools for Business (AACSB). This accrediting agency places their stamp of approval on less than 5 percent of programs. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who instruct on campus. Also, several concentrations are also offered, including the executive option. This specialization is for career professionals with six to eight years of business experience. U.S. News and World Report ranks UNA #78 in best regional universities in the South. Also, the online MBA programs rank #116 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#4 – University of North Carolina
Online Executive MBA
Wilmington, North Carolina

UNC Wilmington offers an online executive MBA ideal for those interested in becoming top level execs.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,183
One of the top online executive MBA programs on our list is offered by University of North Carolina at Wilmington. This executive MBA program offers online classes and requires attendance to dynamic residencies on campus. The program offers a specialization in healthcare management and consists of 42 credit hours. Depending on transfer credits, it is possible to complete the degree in as few as 12 months. Admission prefers five years of professional work experience, though two years are required. Also, two letters of recommendation, satisfactory GMAT scores above 500 or equivalent GRE, and an undergraduate GPA of 3.00 are expected. U.S. News and World Report ranks UNC-Wilmington #15 in best regional universities in the South.
#3 – University of the Cumberlands
Online Executive MBA
Williamsburg, Kentucky

University of the Cumberlands has an online executive MBA with an on-campus residency requirement.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,970
The online executive MBA program at University of the Cumberlands is offered through the Hutton School of Business. Classes are offered online but require an on-campus residency component. The program is accredited and designed for working professionals. In fact, the application asks for a completed resume, official transcripts, and an earned undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Some of the core classes you will find in the program include legal, ethical, and social environment; managerial accounting; managerial finance; organizational behavior; and strategic decision-making. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of the Cumberlands #230-#301 in best national universities. Also, the online MBA programs rank #146 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#2 – University of Wyoming
Online MBA
Laramie, Wyoming

University of Wyoming's online EMBA requires GMAT scores better than 550.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,865
For individuals interested in an online EMBA, University of Wyoming offers an online MBA for working students and professionals. The program is fully online and offers classes taught by university professors. These classes include business research methods, financial management, marketing analysis, organizational behavior and human resources management, strategic management in dynamic environments, and the global business environment. Admission requirements include an accredited bachelor's degree, five or more years of progressive, full-time professional work experience, and strong GMAT scores of 550 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #183 in best national universities and #99 in top public schools.
#1 – University of Nevada
Online Executive MBA
Reno, Nevada

University of Nevada's online executive MBA consists of 12 courses.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,467
University of Nevada's online EMBA program offers twelve courses that can be completed entirely online. The program requires enrolled students earn their EMBA within two years. Courses are taught by the same university faculty who instruct on campus, and electives can be tailored to the student's career goals. Some of the required courses include economics of the firm, financial management, financial reporting and analysis, managing organizations in a global economy, production and operations management, and strategic management for executives. Admissions requires applicants have five or more years of professional work experience beyond undergraduate studies. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Nevada #201 in best national universities and #109 in top public schools. Also, the online MBA programs rank #33 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for individuals with an online executive MBA degree?
The United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the overall employment of top executives is projected to grow by eight percent over the next eight years. This rate of growth is about as fast as the seven percent average for all other occupations. BLS states the growth will vary among occupations and industries, and will be largely dependent on industry growth rate.
BLS also reports that employment growth will also be driven by the perpetual improvement of office technology and changes in organizational structures as companies are bought out by or merged with other companies. The rate of new organization and business creation is slowing, however, and it is projected that the hiring of top executives could slow. With economic downturns, chief executive positions could be impacted. This is something to keep in mind as you prepare for an advanced degree.
Also, with an expected marginal growth rate comes competition for top level executive jobs. Top execs, no matter the industry, will face very strong competition for job openings. Pay and prestige often draw individuals to top level executive positions, but candidates must be qualified. Those with an advanced degree, such as an online executive MBA and extensive managerial and leadership experience will have the best job prospects.
How much do top executives with an online executive MBA degree earn?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook reports the median annual wage for chief executives was $183,270 in May 2017. The lowest ten percent earned less than $68,110 while the highest ten percent earned over $208,000.
PayScale, a global earnings organization that tracks wages and compensation for various job titles, reports the average salary for a chief executive officer (CEO) is $161,051. Top level executives receive compensation or annual salary, along with bonuses, profit sharing, and commission, so the salary range may vary.
Factors like job experience, education, industry, and location also directly impact a top executive's compensation package. For instance, pay by experience level has a positive trend. This means that the more experience an executive has, the higher the average compensation.
PayScale reports the following information: Entry-level CEOs with less than five years of experience can expect to earn a total compensation of $120,000. Mid-career CEOs with five to ten years of experience can expect to earn $154,000 on average. Experienced CEOs with ten to twenty years of experience can expect to earn an average compensation of $193,000. Late-career CEOs with experience of more than twenty years can expect to earn an average total compensation of $229,000.
What are the admission requirements for online executive MBA programs?
Admission requirements for online executive MBA programs vary among programs, but are overall quite similar. Online applications, extensive professional experience, and an undergraduate business degree are typically required. Whether or not test scores are required for admission to an online EMBA varies with programs and schools. Some programs require GMAT or GRE scores, while others recommend them. In some cases, programs do not require graduate exams but stipulate job experience.
Some of the top-ranked business programs, however, do require GMAT or GRE scores. The official score varies. Elite institutions may require a high GMAT or GRE score, while others will accept scores lower than 550. It is always important to research the program before applying to ensure your test scores fit the requirements.
For most EMBA programs on our list, a bachelor's in business from a regionally accredited college or university and substantial work experience in a related field are required for admission. Programs in several top-ranked schools do not require test scores but do want eight to ten years of experience in a management or supervisory role.
Other admission requirements may include letters of recommendation from employers or undergraduate instructors. Most schools require two or three recommendations on average. In rare cases, interviews for online EMBA programs may also be required.
What specializations are available in online executive MBA programs?
Specializations are often offered as part of any online executive MBA program. A diverse range of specializations allows graduate students opportunities to select a discipline, in addition to their business degree, that complements their career aspirations or personal interests. Top EMBA programs allow students to take a series of classes in a specific niche.
Specializations vary among programs. The most popular EMBA specializations include: corporate finance, entrepreneurship and innovation, finance, financial instruments and markets, global business, international business, leadership, management, marketing, quantitative finance, real estate management, strategy or strategic management, supply chain management or logistics, and technology and operations.
In some cases, programs allow students to enroll in more than one specialization. Additional credits will be expected, but students are able to open doors to a variety of interests. In most cases, specializations require the completion of at least nine credits of relevant courses defined by the program and faculty. This means that with two specializations, a total of 18 credits would be required in addition to the established EMBA credits.
With programs that do not offer specializations, elective courses may be chosen to complement an area of interest. Taking three electives in a particular discipline would provide the same level of study it takes to complete a specialization.
What kinds of jobs may I qualify for with an online executive MBA?
Top level executives carry out a variety of duties depending on industry and organizational goals. Overall, executives design strategies and policies to ensure a company or organization meets its goals. Planning, directing teams of employees, and coordinating operational activities are among the most common duties carried out by executives.
With an online executive MBA, you may qualify for a number of jobs, but top-level executive jobs generally require an advanced business degree along with experience.
General and operations managers are types of top executives responsible for overseeing operations of an organization or company. Responsibilities of general managers (GMs) may include the management of daily operations, formulating policy, and carrying out the tasks of the CEO, if there is one. This type of executive usually has less experience than a chief executive.
Chief executive officers, also known as presidents or executive directors, are responsible for providing the overall direction for companies, sizable businesses, or organizations. Most CEOs work in the private sector.
Public sector executive jobs or executive roles in education may vary. City managers, county administrators, governors, and mayors are all responsible for overseeing budgets, directing programs, and allocating resources. These executive-level positions may be appointed, such as mayors and governors who must be elected for the position.
BMD Staff
November 2018