Executive MBA

Frequently Asked Questions

EMBA FAQ

1. What is the Executive MBA?
2. How can I learn more before I apply?
3. How much time does the program require?
4. Who teaches in the Executive MBA?
5. Who is eligible for admission?
6. Why is the tuition higher than that for a traditional MBA?
7. Do I receive an Executive MBA or an MBA degree?
8. How do participants pay for the program? Is financial aid available?
9. Is it difficult to return to school after being out of school for so many years?
10. Can I discuss the program with someone before I apply?
11. Should I take the GMAT? What is an acceptable score?
12. Will I be able to concentrate in a specific business area?
13. Do I need to be sponsored by my company?

The Executive MBA curriculum centers around five modules:

• Enterprise Management
• Advanced Functional Core
• Technology Management
• Strategic Leadership
• Global Management

You are encouraged to attend an Open House or participate in one of our online program information sessions to find out more about the program. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact our admissions office prior to starting the application process at 215-895-6804 or at mba@drexel.edu. Our staff members are available to answer questions and discuss the program.

The program completes in 20 months and requires a considerable time commitment. You should expect to spend between 15 and 20 hours on schoolwork outside of class. Time spent outside of class varies depending on the term, class assignments, and background knowledge.

Drexel LeBow faculty teach EMBA students. They are among the most well read and respected business educators internationally, and many are current or former executives or consultants with Fortune 500 companies. They offer a distinctive combination of theoretical knowledge and management practice that translates into day-to-day practicality.

A very diverse group of people earn a Drexel LeBow Executive MBA. Participants have a minimum of seven years of business or professional experience; average years of work experience is 15 years. Program participants represent all types of organizations, from major corporations to small entrepreneurial ventures. Both the private and public sectors are represented, as well as individuals with careers in professions such as medicine, engineering, science, and law.

The Executive MBA is designed for the managerial professional. As such, the University provides a premium level of service in terms of faculty, facilities and support staff. Tuition is all-inclusive and includes registration, books, parking, even your meals while in class.

The international retreat—including travel and lodging—is also included in tuition.

The program is further enhanced with individual executive coaching, leadership workshops and professional and social networking events with other Executive MBA students and alumni.

Learn more about tuition and financing.

You receive an MBA degree. We are proud that the Drexel LeBow MBA is one of the most comprehensive programs in the Philadelphia area. Our curriculum delivers a different experience, is a full 51 credits but is the same MBA degree irrespective of the program you choose.

Approximately 20 percent of participants receive full tuition support from their employers. Twenty-five percent receive partial support from their employers for tuition. The remaining participants pay their own tuition. Traditional graduate financial aid is available to U.S. citizens in the form of loans from the U.S. government or private lenders. In addition, Drexel LeBow offers merit-based, Drexel Alumni and professional scholarships.

The time demands of the program require all participants to make adjustments in their lives. Typically, most Drexel Executive MBA participants have been out of school for 10 to 15 years, which means all members of the class face similar challenges. Student study groups play a critical role of support during the program, and the Executive MBA is designed to allow students to concentrate their time on academic matters while program staff focus on the administrative aspects of the program.

You are encouraged to contact the program director prior to starting the application process. Program staff are available to answer questions and discuss the program. Please contact us at 215-895-0314 or emba@drexel.edu.

It is encouraged. However, applicants may request a GMAT waiver. In granting waivers, the applicant’s work experience and undergraduate background are considered.

The Drexel Executive MBA is a comprehensive MBA program-focused on shaping leaders - that encompasses a vast spectrum of business including finance, accounting, marketing, and technology and business strategy. Because of the cohorted format of the program, there are no concentrations.

You do not need to be financially sponsored by your company in order to enroll in the Executive MBA program. However, you do need your employer's support to take the necessary time off for class attendance. Students in the Executive MBA must be able to attend classes every other Friday, except during the summer.