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MBA vs. Executive Education: Differences and Similarities

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There are many options for people who want to get an MBA degree. You could choose between a regular MBA program, an Executive MBA (EMBA), or even a part-time degree.

But, what’s the difference between these programs? How do they differ from one another, and which one should you pursue? Which one can be more beneficial to your career and why you should pay extra money for it, if you already have a degree that is relevant to your work?

In this article, we’ll go over the similarities and differences between traditional and executive programs to help you decide which option is right for your goals. Yes, in the end, there is an emotional component to this decision, as there are people, who just want to get their MBA before 30, for example, but we cannot analyze that.

Executive Education vs. MBA: What Is the Difference?

Executive education and MBA degrees are both designed to help you develop skills and knowledge to advance your career, earn more money, be a better professional, be recognized in your business niche, etc. However, each has its own specific set of goals.

A Masters in Business Administration (MBA) degree is typically an intensive full-time program that can be completed in two years or less, depending on the program. It’s designed for those who want to get into advanced leadership roles within business organizations, while setting them up for future entrepreneurial endeavors or higher-level executive positions. It is a good place to start, but it is also true that many MBA programs were devalued with time, so you need to be careful with what you sign for.

Graduate Executive Education (GEE) programs are often shorter than an MBA degree and focus exclusively on developing the skills needed by managers at all levels of their careers—from first jobs out of college through retirement. These are often what you can call ‘high precision programs” focusing on specific problems and skills in executive management, not on the general principles of management per se.

  • How long does it take? MBA is a full-time program and hence it is recommended that you devote all your time to it. Most MBA programs are spread over 2 years, while executive education courses are offered in short duration (usually 4-6 weeks).
  • What do you actually learn? These two courses also differ in their scope of learning as well as content offered for study: MBA focuses on management and leadership skills, whereas executive education courses cover specialized areas like marketing or finance.
  • Who are the faculty members? Faculty members at top business schools have extensive industry experience and industry contacts; this gives them more credibility when they teach students about the real world outside academia than those who have never worked for an organization before, teaching its employees about how to be successful within one!

These are, of course, the most important questions to answer when choosing between various types of education.  However, there are additional questions to consider, for example, what is more preferred in your niche? Are there specific faculty members you are interested in? Where do you have more chances for scholarship? Are there discounts? Would your company consider helping you financially? Think about all the details before choosing between these programs. It is an important commitment that requires investment, so don’t make a rush decision.

MBA vs. Executive Education Similarities

When it comes to MBA vs Executive education, the similarities between both the programs are striking. Both programs are postgraduate programs, and they require a master’s degree in order to enroll in them. These two educational options are research based, so you will be conducting your own projects throughout your coursework. Both MBA and Executive education courses take place as part of a cohort program with other students who have similar goals and ambitions. The courses also provide you with a certificate upon completion of the program, which means that employers will recognize your achievement after graduating from either one of these degrees!

Both MBA vs Executive education share many similarities when compared with each other; however, there are some key differences between them too. No matter which one you choose, you may experience rather serious problems with writing papers and submitting them on time. The expectations are rather high, and you still need to deal with your normal work. Not to lose your spot, and graduate with the needed degree, consider delegating some of your assignments  to WriteMyPaperHub — a reliable writing service with top authors in a business niche who process “write my paper” requests 24/7. Being an executive, or aspiring to become one, you know that delegating the needed things to the needed people may be a very successful move indeed.

Find Out Which One Works Best for Your Goals

If you’re thinking about pursuing an MBA or executive education, first ask yourself: What are my goals? Do I want to work for a large organization, or am I more interested in starting my own business? Would an MBA help me achieve my career aspirations and make the most of my time at school? Or do I have a specific project or problem to solve that can be solved by getting specialized training from industry experts?

Once you know what your objective is—whether it’s to launch a new product line, get promoted within your company, or set up shop as an entrepreneur—you’ll be in a better position to decide which type of program is best for you. If both are valuable (and they are!), then consider doing one now and the other later—or even doing both at once.

So now you know the difference between an MBA and executive education degree. There are many similarities between them, but also some differences. Both programs will give you skills that can help your career—but which one is right for you depends on what you want to get out of your studies? If you’re not sure yet, consider starting with a shorter course so that it’s easier on your wallet (and time).

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About Shane Avron

Shane Avron is a freelance writer, specializing in business, general management, enterprise software, and digital technologies. In addition to Flevy, Shane's articles have appeared in Huffington Post, Forbes Magazine, among other business journals.


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