Arizona is home to several highly respected Executive MBA (EMBA) programs that cater to professionals looking to advance their leadership skills and strategic business knowledge without pausing their careers. The EMBA programs in Arizona are designed with flexibility in mind, offering a blend of in-person, online, and hybrid learning formats. With a focus on leadership, innovation, and global business strategy, these programs prepare executives for top-level management positions in various industries.
Arizona State University (ASU) – W. P. Carey School of Business
Overview
The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University offers one of the most recognized and innovative Executive MBA programs in Arizona. Known for its rigorous curriculum and flexibility, ASU’s EMBA program is designed for senior professionals and executives seeking to hone their leadership skills and deepen their understanding of global business strategies.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 21 months
- Delivery Format: In-person (with some online components)
- Class Frequency: Classes held every other Friday and Saturday
- Global Immersion: A global business trip is part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in international business
- Focus Areas:
- Leadership and organizational behavior
- Financial and strategic decision-making
- Global markets and emerging economies
Curriculum
The ASU EMBA curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, emphasizing leadership development and global business strategy. Key components include:
- Strategic Leadership: Courses designed to enhance decision-making skills, leadership capabilities, and the ability to lead in complex, rapidly changing environments.
- Finance and Economics: In-depth study of financial management, global economics, and corporate strategy, giving students the tools to make informed decisions at the executive level.
- Global Business: The program includes a global immersion trip where students engage with international companies and gain insights into global market trends.
Admission Requirements
- Experience: Minimum of 10 years of work experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Test Requirements: GMAT/GRE typically waived for experienced professionals
- Interview: Required as part of the admission process
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $100,000 for the full program
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, loans, and employer sponsorships available
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options offered to accommodate working professionals
Career Outcomes
Graduates of ASU’s EMBA program have gone on to executive roles in various industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Many report significant salary increases and career advancement opportunities after completing the program.
University of Arizona – Eller College of Management
Overview
The Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona offers a top-ranked Executive MBA program that is designed for experienced professionals looking to take their careers to the next level. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Eller’s EMBA program prepares executives to drive organizational change and business growth.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 18 months
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (in-person and online)
- Class Frequency: In-person classes every other weekend in Phoenix
- International Residency: Includes an optional international trip focused on global business challenges and opportunities
- Focus Areas:
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Leadership and organizational development
- Strategic management and decision-making
Curriculum
Eller’s EMBA curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of core business concepts while emphasizing innovation and leadership. Students will explore:
- Entrepreneurial Leadership: Courses that focus on entrepreneurial thinking, innovation management, and leading change within organizations.
- Strategic Management: A focus on developing strategic business plans and executing decisions that impact organizational success.
- Financial Acumen: Courses in corporate finance, managerial accounting, and risk management to enhance executive decision-making.
Admission Requirements
- Experience: Minimum of 7 years of professional work experience, with a preference for leadership roles
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Test Requirements: GMAT/GRE waivers available based on professional experience
- Interview: Mandatory for all applicants
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $89,000 for the full program
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, loans, and company sponsorships available
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options are provided
Career Outcomes
Eller EMBA graduates are equipped to take on leadership roles in a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance. The program’s focus on entrepreneurship and innovation has also led many graduates to start their own successful ventures.
Grand Canyon University – Colangelo College of Business
Overview
Grand Canyon University’s Colangelo College of Business offers a flexible and affordable Executive MBA program that is designed for busy professionals looking to advance their careers. The program is built around leadership, strategic management, and ethical decision-making, providing executives with the tools they need to lead successful organizations.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 16 months
- Delivery Format: Fully online
- Focus Areas:
- Strategic leadership and organizational behavior
- Financial management and decision-making
- Ethical leadership and corporate governance
Curriculum
The online Executive MBA program at Grand Canyon University is designed to provide a broad understanding of business management while focusing on leadership and ethical decision-making. The core curriculum includes:
- Strategic Leadership: Courses focused on leadership theories and practices, preparing students to lead teams and organizations effectively.
- Financial Decision Making: Comprehensive courses in financial analysis, budgeting, and corporate finance to improve executive decision-making.
- Ethical Leadership: A strong emphasis on ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility, ensuring that graduates lead with integrity.
Admission Requirements
- Experience: At least 5 years of work experience, with leadership responsibilities preferred
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Test Requirements: No GMAT/GRE required for admission
- Interview: Not required, but recommended
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $30,000 for the full program
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and student loans available
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options to meet the needs of working professionals
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s EMBA program often move into leadership roles within their current organizations or pursue new opportunities in various industries, including healthcare, government, and corporate management. The program’s focus on ethical leadership also makes it particularly valuable for executives working in socially responsible organizations.
Thunderbird School of Global Management
Overview
The Thunderbird School of Global Management, part of Arizona State University, is renowned for its focus on global leadership and international business. Thunderbird’s Executive MBA program is tailored for experienced professionals who aspire to lead in today’s complex global economy. The program provides a strong emphasis on cross-cultural leadership, international strategy, and global market trends.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 18 months
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (combination of in-person residencies and online learning)
- Class Frequency: In-person classes held once per month
- Global Immersion: Includes two international study trips focused on global business and leadership
- Focus Areas:
- Global leadership and cross-cultural communication
- International business strategy
- Innovation in emerging markets
Curriculum
The Thunderbird EMBA curriculum is designed to prepare executives for leadership roles in global organizations. Core areas of study include:
- Global Strategy: Courses that focus on strategic management in international markets, global business practices, and the challenges of leading in diverse environments.
- Cross-Cultural Leadership: A deep dive into leadership practices across different cultures and the importance of communication in international business.
- Emerging Markets: A focus on innovation and entrepreneurship in rapidly growing global markets, providing students with insights into global economic trends.
Admission Requirements
- Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of work experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership position
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Test Requirements: GMAT/GRE not required for most experienced professionals
- Interview: Required as part of the application process
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $120,000 for the full program
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, loans, and employer sponsorships available
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options available to accommodate professional schedules
Career Outcomes
Thunderbird’s EMBA program equips graduates with the skills to lead multinational corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Alumni often move into roles such as Chief Executive Officers, Chief Financial Officers, and Global Operations Managers. Many Thunderbird graduates also pursue entrepreneurial ventures with an international focus.
Northern Arizona University – The W. A. Franke College of Business
Overview
Northern Arizona University offers a flexible and affordable Executive MBA program through its W. A. Franke College of Business. The program is designed for working professionals seeking to develop leadership skills and strategic business knowledge. With a focus on regional business issues and leadership in small to medium-sized enterprises, this program is well-suited for professionals working in Arizona and the surrounding states.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 18-24 months
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (in-person and online)
- Class Frequency: In-person classes held once per month in Flagstaff
- Focus Areas:
- Leadership in small and medium-sized enterprises
- Strategic management and operational efficiency
- Financial management and business analytics
Curriculum
NAU’s EMBA program is designed to meet the needs of professionals in a range of industries, with a particular focus on leadership in small to medium-sized enterprises. Key curriculum components include:
- Strategic Management: Courses that focus on the development of strategic business plans, leadership in dynamic environments, and the challenges of managing small to mid-sized organizations.
- Financial Acumen: Comprehensive study of financial management, including capital budgeting, risk management, and financial decision-making.
- Business Analytics: Emphasizes the use of data analytics for strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.
Admission Requirements
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience, with leadership responsibilities preferred
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Test Requirements: GMAT/GRE not required for most candidates
- Interview: May be required for some applicants
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $50,000 for the full program
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, loans, and employer sponsorships available
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options to suit working professionals
Career Outcomes
Graduates of NAU’s EMBA program often advance to leadership roles in small and medium-sized businesses, government, and non-profit organizations. The program’s focus on regional business issues and leadership development makes it an excellent choice for executives looking to make an impact in Arizona and the southwestern United States.