Executive MBA

21 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Utah

Program Overview

The Executive MBA (EMBA) at the University of Utah's David Eccles School of Business is designed for experienced professionals, managers, and business leaders who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities and advance their careers while continuing to work. The 21-month programme combines advanced business education, strategic management, global learning experiences, and professional networking to help participants address complex organisational challenges and lead business growth.

Curriculum Structure

The Executive MBA is a 21-month programme delivered across five semesters. Classes are held in person on alternate Fridays and Saturdays, generally from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., allowing working professionals to balance their studies with professional responsibilities. The curriculum combines core business subjects, leadership development, immersive learning experiences, and international exposure.

First Year

Students establish a strong foundation in accounting, finance, economics, marketing, statistics, operations, and organisational leadership. Courses include Financial Accounting, Leadership and Management in High Performance Organizations, Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness, Statistics, Marketing Management, and Corporate Finance. Students also study Negotiations and Conflict Management, Economics, and Operations Management to develop the analytical and managerial skills needed to make effective business decisions.

Second Year

Students advance their strategic and leadership capabilities through courses such as Business Strategy, Corporate Strategy, Advanced Marketing Strategies, Managerial Accounting, Advanced Leadership: Strategic Leadership in Organizations, and Competitive Advantage through Human Resources. The curriculum also includes special topics such as AI Strategy for Business Leaders, helping students understand how emerging technologies can support organisational strategy. Students participate in off-site immersive learning experiences and an International Field Study involving exposure to international businesses and global markets.

Note: The programme's special topics may change between cohorts to reflect developments in business and technology. The course sequence is based on the university's published curriculum.

Focus Areas

Executive leadership, strategic management, corporate strategy, financial accounting, managerial accounting, corporate finance, economics, business statistics, marketing management, advanced marketing strategy, operations management, negotiation and conflict management, organisational behaviour, human resource management, business communication, international business, global strategy, artificial intelligence strategy, organisational design, and business decision-making.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to formulate business strategies, evaluate financial and operational performance, analyse complex organisational challenges, and make informed strategic decisions. They also strengthen leadership, negotiation, communication, conflict management, and team-building skills. Through international learning experiences and practical business exposure, students gain a broader understanding of global markets, organisational change, innovation, and the application of emerging technologies in business.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

AACSB Accreditation: The David Eccles School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation for business education.
Executive MBA Council Recognition: The programme is recognised by the Executive MBA Council, an organisation representing graduate-level executive management education.
Leadership Development: Courses in strategic leadership, organisational behaviour, communication, and negotiation help experienced professionals strengthen their management and leadership capabilities.
Global Business Exposure: The programme includes three off-site immersive learning experiences, including international destinations and business visits.
Career Advancement Support: Students receive personalised career advancement services during the programme and for three years after graduation.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

Financial Times Rankings: The university identifies its Executive MBA as ranked No. 1 in Utah, No. 3 in the West, and No. 17 in the United States.
Salary Growth: Students report an average salary increase of 17% by graduation, according to the programme's published outcomes.
Career Progression: Approximately 35% of students receive promotions while enrolled, based on a three-year average.
Additional Responsibilities: Around 38% of students report receiving new job responsibilities during the programme.
Professional Network: Students gain access to a network of more than 1,500 Executive MBA alumni across different industries.
Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Business Strategy Director, Operations Director, General Manager, Management Consultant, Business Development Director, Corporate Strategy Manager, and Entrepreneur.

Note: Salary growth, promotion, and career progression figures are programme-reported outcomes and are not guaranteed individual results.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Utah, the Executive MBA program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for effective leadership in today’s dynamic business environment. Students engage in real-world projects, collaborate with peers from diverse industries, and utilize state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning journey. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various avenues, ensuring that you not only gain theoretical knowledge but also apply it in practical settings.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Executive MBA program:

- Capstone Projects: Work on real business challenges with local companies, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge to solve actual problems.
- Team-Based Learning: Collaborate with fellow students on group projects that simulate real-world business scenarios, fostering teamwork and leadership skills.
- Internship Opportunities: While the Executive MBA is designed for working professionals, there are opportunities to engage in projects that can enhance your current role or explore new industries.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software and tools such as Tableau for data visualization, Microsoft Power BI for business analytics, and various project management platforms to enhance your learning experience.
- Field Trips: Participate in visits to local businesses and organizations, providing insights into different industries and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
- Research Facilities: Access to the David Eccles School of Business’s dedicated research centers, which focus on entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing, among other areas.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from the extensive resources available at the Marriott Library, including databases, journals, and research materials tailored for business students.
- Networking Events: Engage in events that connect you with alumni and industry professionals, expanding your professional network and learning from their experiences.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to equip you with the skills and insights necessary to excel in your career.

Embarking on this journey will not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for the challenges of leadership in the business world. I encourage you to consider applying to the Executive MBA program at the University of Utah!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Executive MBA program at the University of Utah is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in leadership roles across various industries. Graduates often find themselves in high-demand positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Senior Marketing Manager, and Business Development Director. With a strong emphasis on real-world application and strategic thinking, this program prepares you for significant career advancement:

- University Services: The University of Utah offers robust career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events that connect you with industry leaders.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the Executive MBA program report a 90% employment rate within three months of graduation, with average salaries exceeding $120,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The program boasts partnerships with leading companies such as Goldman Sachs and Adobe, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world projects.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Executive MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the global job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have successfully transitioned into higher-level management roles, with many reporting promotions and increased responsibilities shortly after graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Executive MBA, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. in Management. These advanced degrees can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, or specialized consulting roles, allowing you to deepen your expertise and influence in the business world.

The Executive MBA at the University of Utah is not just a degree; it’s a stepping stone to a brighter future filled with opportunities.