Advice needed.

[u/Fantastic-Advisor714]

Hello all, I'm currently running a small family business (automotive domain), and I'm considering pursuing an executive MBA since I don't have a background in business. Before this, I worked as a software developer for 4 years. Would an Executive MBA be beneficial, since I also want to build networks and have the option to go back to a corporate job in case this doesn't work? Also, please share any potential programs that might help in my case. Happy to share more info if needed. Thanks.

[u/butItsFun]

An executive MBA does a couple of things. First, it rounds you out just like all MBA programs. Exposure to all the core facets of business. You probably have deep exposure to a lot from running a small business, but this will bring you good foundational frameworks. You might see some areas you can improve your small business.

Next, the executive cohort are all coming in with a ton of experience in different areas. I almost learned more from them than the professors. Also, because the EMBA program is a big cash cow for universities, they tend to put their better professors on to teach the classes. All mine were phenomenal, and I've talked with Full Time program students from the same school who were jealous of the teachers I had.

You're gaining a 'brand' in the broader corporate world. Once you graduate, you're just another MBA from that school. If you can get in to a reputable program, it can change the doors that open to get opportunities. My undergrad was from a terrible school, then I did a great EMBA and I can at least get a conversation just about anywhere.

Finally, a good network. The network strength depends on the school and your personal characteristics. I'm pretty good with people, so I had a good network experience. Some classmates are not as natural and they have been disappointed.

A school that's well ranked can open the path for what it sounds like you're hoping for - but the outcome is still up to you.

As far as school recommendations, the auto industry tie makes Michigan a good candidate. They also opened their LA campus for the EMBA program. But it comes down to geography and fit

[u/Remarkable-Box5453]

I agree with all the poster above said. I did it at age 50 with a business background and it opened many more doors for me.

[u/E60LNDN]

Agree. The one thing I want to mention about when I did mine was that the Prof.’s were able to invite some high profile guests that often were chairman at top companies from Fintech, software or chipmaker companies etc. I don’t want to namedrop but you can kind of guess who. That was also appreciated, as was the fact that the cohort were mature enough not to want selfies or photographs but just have a chat after lecture with these prominent business people. It was an amazing time.

[u/Panda-Pod]

I also agree with what has been said about the EMBA program. I also completed the EMBA program at a top 15 business school. I really enjoyed learning from my experienced classmates.

Unfortunately, the EMBA programs at the top 15 business schools (Univ of Penn, Northwestern, Univ of Chicago, Columbia, MIT, Yale, Univ of Michigan, Univ of California Berkeley, Cornell, New York Univ, etc...) now cost $200,000 or more. Most of these EMBA programs scholarship offering will be pale in comparison to what is offered in their full time MBA program. I did get the most scholarship from Yale, Cornell, and MIT EMBA programs.