EMBA Program Features
Weatherhead is different from most other business schools and we are passionate about our innovative approach to learning. Our EMBA curriculum and format integrate the fundamentals of business with ideas and practices that transform individuals, organizations, and society. Highlights include:
- Five integrated semesters focusing on critical aspects of organizational life Semesters address the language of business, stakeholder management, global business, processes and systems, and execution. During the global business semester, for example, executives tackle modules on topics such as culture, the economics of global business, and strategic perspectives on globalization.
- Learning is flexible
Modules are taught in a form that makes the most sense for the learning we wish to engender. Sessions focused on skill building will be taught in shorter chunks while modules requiring extensive discussion and exploration will use a longer format (six hours to two days). Distance components enable our participants to focus more or less on particular areas; for example, accountants can move quickly through the accounting modules while others can use the tools for extra assistance on new material. - Companies benefit because school and work projects mesh
The program requires two company-specific projects designed to deliver a rapid return on an organization’s educational investment. These projects are not bound by any curriculum or discipline; they focus on whatever is important to the student and his or her sponsor. The first is conducted by the individual student and the second in conjunction with classmates who act as peer mentors and consultants.
Residency Periods
Residency periods are four-day sessions of sustained interaction and instruction. They are held at the start of each semester throughout the program. Fall residencies are held off-campus.
The objectives of the residency periods are to:
- Build and sustain a high-caliber learning community where the experience of all participants is available as a resource
- "Jump start" learning for the semester through concentrated study
- Develop behavioral management skills in leadership, teamwork, creative problem-solving, peer review, and conflict management
Monthly Class Sessions
Classes are held on one contiguous Friday and Saturday each month in the George S. Dively Building. The typical daily schedule is from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a one-hour lunch break and two hours of dedicated study group time each class day.
Teaching Style
Professors engage participants in case analysis, problem set discussions, experiential exercises, simulations, lectures, one-on-one discussions, and distance learning exercises. These methods are tailored to the subject matter and the needs of the class.
Study Groups
The Executive MBA learning process centers on study groups of six to eight participants who meet throughout the entire program. These study groups are self-selected and provide the means for sharing of interdisciplinary and cross-organizational perspectives. Since the study groups work together throughout the program, camaraderie and an esprit de corps develop which further enhance participants’ individual efforts. Study group members also provide a support system to help balance the demands of work, home, and academic life.
International Study Tour
The entire class participates in a 10-day study tour outside the United States during the University’s spring break period in March of the second year. Participants visit one or two regions or economic centers to explore and contrast the cultural, historical, political, and economic issues involved in building new business opportunities. Emphasis is placed on how history shaped managerial practices in the region, dialogues with local executives and entrepreneurs, and intensive live case studies. All travel, room, and selected meal costs are included in the program fee.
