When it comes to acquiring a managerial skill, an MBA comes as the best course to pursue. It develops business management skills with specialisation in various fields like finance, accounts, marketing, IT, media, HR, etc.
However, when you research the MBA programme, you might come across two different MBA programmes- Professional MBA and MBA executive terms. And you get confused about the difference between them.
In this article, we have covered 'what the differences between MBA and an Executive MBA' are for you.
MBA and Executive MBA
MBA is a regular, full-time programme offered by colleges and universities, usually for those students who pursue their degree just after their undergraduate or 1-2 years after it. At the same time, an executive MBA or EMBA is an online MBA programme offered by distance or open education institutions for working professionals or part-time students without any age limit.
On the one hand, it holds the same value. On the other hand, it shares some differences. Such differences are listed below:
#1. Structure and Format
MBA is a Full-time, immersive program typically lasting two years. The famous universities that offer regular MBA programmes are IIM Ahmedabad, IIT Delhi, IIM Calcutta, IIM Delhi, IIM Bangalore, ISB Hyderabad etc.
EMBA is a part-time, blended program designed for working professionals, often with weekend or evening classes. The top distance MBA colleges are Amity Online University, Dr DY Patil University, IGNOU, London Met University, etc.
#2. Admission Requirements
Regular MBA programmes require an undergraduate degree, and students must crack CAT or MAT. They must score high to get into the best MBA college.
Meanwhile, EMBA students require significant work experience and crack the specific entrance exam of a particular university. For example, IGNOU requires students to take their own entrance exam to gain admission.
#3. Curriculum and Focus
Traditional MBA covers a broad-based curriculum dealing with various business disciplines, including finances, accounting, human resource management, etc.
EMBA is specially tailored for experienced professionals, emphasising strategic leadership and real-world applications.
#4. Career Goals
The career goals of pursuing an MBA also vary. A regular MBA is often sought for career change, advancement to managerial roles, or entrepreneurship.
Whereas doing EMBA, is primarily aimed at enhancing leadership skills, expanding professional networks, and consolidating career positions.
#5. Course Fee
The course fees of EMBA and MBA also hold a big difference. The EMBA is more in budget. EMBA from the best online MBA college ranges from RS.5,000 to RS.32,000/-.
The regular MBA fee from top universities and colleges is between RS 20,000 and 40 Lakh in India.
Which is Better Executive MBA or MBA
Now that you know the difference between EMBA and MBA, you should decide which MBA is right for you. Here are some critical steps to select your MBA program.
#1. Set Your Goal
The first thing you need to know before pursuing an MBA is what your goal of doing it is. Distance MBA is the best option if you have work experience and want to enrol in an MBA program for your career growth.
#2. Decide Your Budget
What is your budget for MBA course expenses? It also states which MBA you should pursue. Generally, regular MBA courses include high tuition fees and other charges. To pursue an MBA from a top college like IIM, you must have a solid financial background or support of any scholarship or student loan.
#3. Know Your Situation
If you're already in a job and can't leave your appointment for your higher studies, the executive or part-time MBA can do the same work for you. However, if you're a recent graduate who can crack the top-notch MBA entrance exam and regular MBA in your budget, you can choose a traditional MBA.
The regular and executive MBAs both are equally valued. The difference lies only in its study method. However, people often need clarification on whether executive MBAs have the same value as regular MBAs.
Does an executive MBA have the same value as a regular MBA?
The simple answer to this question is yes; professional and online MBAs have the same value. Both look the same on resumes and matter equally to companies, universities, and organisations.
The difference between them is that EMBA students take online classes on Zoom, google meat, or LMS software. MBA candidates take their courses in the classroom. The EMBA students network and meet with fewer people. Professional MBA students can befriend several students, seniors, and juniors.
Another difference that impacts EMBA and MBA students is that EMBA students need a high level of motivation to continue their studies. MBA students don't need extra effort to continue their studies.
Many students with distance learning leave the course in between because of a lack of interest, time, information, and guidance. However, the problem can be resolved with help from an online learning support centre. The online learning support centre helps you get proper information, expert guidance, motivation and time management tips and tricks.
The Bottom Line
MBA is one of the widely popular courses, high in demand, which opens doors to various career paths. After pursuing an MBA, you become a business manager, finance manager, marketing manager, business analytics, and more.
You can pursue a professional or executive MBA to boost your career. According to your need, you can pursue an MBA by understanding the difference between an EMBA and an MBA and knowing it's worth it.
If you're looking for an Online MBA course, DY Patil, IGNOU, London Met University, and
Amity Online University are some of the top universities you can select for
your distance learning. Pursuing an MBA from these colleges is worth your time
and career.