What is the difference between an EMBA and executive education?
By: Deidre Pannazzo, Edited by: Emma Breitman
Published: April 21, 2025
The difference between an executive master of business administration (EMBA) and executive education program includes the type of credential you earn and the time it takes to complete each program. Explore details regarding both programs to help advance your career as a leader in business.
EMBA and executive education: What's the difference?
One of the main differences between an EMBA and an executive education program is the credential you receive upon completion. Typically, an EMBA program delivers an advanced degree, while an executive education program usually issues a certificate.
An EMBA takes longer to complete and is more expensive than executive education programs. EMBA programs also have more rigorous admissions criteria, such standardized test scores and GPA requirements.
The topics covered by EMBA programs can give you general business management knowledge. Executive education can delve deeper into business subjects and target areas of interest, such as strategy and innovation. Learn more about both programs below.
Understand time commitments
Earning an EMBA requires time and dedication, typically taking around two years of study. You generally balance weekly coursework and group projects around other commitments.
Executive education programs can usually be completed in a few weeks to several months, depending on the requirements. They're geared toward professional leaders and offer flexible scheduling that allows you to finish coursework and earn a certificate in a shorter timeframe than an EMBA.
Review admissions requirements
Admissions into EMBA programs typically require a strong academic and professional background and standardized tests scores such as the GMAT or GRE. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation or essays as part of the process.
The requirements for executive education programs are not as strict as EMBA programs. The main focus for acceptance is usually a relevant professional background and experience, along with your desire to develop specific skills such as leadership and management.
Compare EMBA and executive education costs
Earning an EMBA can cost you tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Tuition is usually significantly less for executive education programs, which is generally around a few thousand dollars per course.
The price of both types of programs can vary based on criteria such as location and institution. There may be extra costs for books, technology, administrative fees, or transportation expenses.
Compare coursework
In an EMBA program, coursework typically provides a broad background in areas such as business management, corporate finance, and marketing to help improve your leadership and decision-making skills.
Executive education programs provide more concentrated training in a shorter time frame. They can cover various business areas and dive into specific topics like artificial intelligence in healthcare or sustainable finance.
EMBA and executive education: Which should you choose?
Earning an EMBA can be a good choice if you're a mid-career professional looking to delve deeper into business management and finance functions to help you prepare for senior leadership roles. Consider the financial investment and completion time, as EMBA programs can be costly and take around two years to complete.
Pursuing executive education can be a good choice if you're a mid-to senior-level professional looking to quickly acquire specific skills. These programs can help you update your knowledge of business trends or enhance your leadership capabilities in your current role. These programs typically last a few months and generally cost less than an EMBA degree program.