Is an Executive MBA more valued, less valued, or treated at par with a conventional MBA?

Question

I'm pursuing a one year Executive MBA designed for executives and working professionals, from a specialized B-school. I would like to know how this stands against a conventional two year university MBA; specifically with regard to employment prospects. Thanks.

Answer 1

Most EMBA programs are not really designed for those who are not already employed (the assumption is that the employer paid for the EMBA and expects the student to continue employment with them), so generally efforts to help with employment changes for EMBA programs are minimal. Quality programs also will not admit you unless you already have considerable experience - that is supposed to be what distinguishes the EMBA from the regular MBA program - so placement becomes much more specific to the individual's background and cannot be served by bringing a bank of recruiters to campus. In other words, while employers may respect the EMBA equally to the regular MBA (and most do), placement usually plays less of a role for EMBA graduates than it does for MBA graduates, although most schools will allow the MBAs access to any placement resources they may have available for the regular MBAs, should they need them.

Answer 2

If you're already established in your field and the program is truly specialized enough that it carries weight in your industry, I don't think it'll hurt you. But it's probably going to be more useful as a confirmation of your credentials or the last push you need for a promotion where you are than as a stepping stone to whole new opportunities. For that, a conventional MBA remains the better option.