Many colleges and universities worldwide offer executive business programs as an alternative to traditional, full-time degree programs. Degree courses such as the Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) allow professionals to attend classes on the weekends while still being able to work during the week. Executive business programs typically last two years or less, and depending on the academic institution, can be completed through classes held on campus or online.

–Executive business programs were developed so that experienced managers and other high-level professionals could further their skills and have more opportunities for advancement in their careers. Since the formation of the Executive MBA Council in 1981, EMBA programs continue to rise in popularity.

–Students who enroll in executive business programs such as the EMBA are usually more experienced in their careers than students who opt for a traditional MBA program. The majority of those who pursue an executive business degree have been working for approximately ten years and have been in management for at least five years. These students are typically aged 30 to 40 at the time of enrollment.

–Many executive business programs require that students meet for on-campus classes on alternating weekends, and some require periodic residencies that last a week in duration. Some programs are offered online, though residential stays on occasion are usually included in this format as well.

–In order to be admitted into an executive business program, applicants often need to take the GMAT and produce letters of recommendation.