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Return On Investment: Executive MBA Salaries Are On The Rise

EMBA graduates continue to see strong increases in their salaries, according to a new Executive MBA Council report

Tue Nov 7 2017

BusinessBecause
Salaries for Executive MBA (EMBA) are on the up—that's according to a new report by the Executive MBA Council (EMBAC).

Results of EMBAC's Student Exit Survey 2017 showed that graduates of EMBA programs received on average a 14.2% increase in compensation—the combined total of salary and bonuses—in the years following their degree; highlighting a strong return on investment (ROI).

A steady, continued rise in previous years highlights the benefits of an EMBA—it comes in addition to a 41% and 52% rise in the number of graduates gaining promotion or receiving new responsibilities in their job, respectively, during the program.

For executive director of EMBAC, Michael Desiderio, the figures go hand-in-hand with the rapidly changing business environment. 

"With new technologies coupled with an ever-expanding global focus and evolving business landscape, companies and employees are looking for ways to expand their abilities and stay ahead of the curve,” he said.

“When you combine the new skills taught to EMBA graduates, with the idea of prospective salary increases and promotions, both students and companies are seeing values in these programs to actively seek to adapt and lead in their respective industries.”

Embarking on the EMBA journey equips graduates with a variety of leadership development tools, greater strategic vision, and skills that can be instantly transferred into the workplace.

Even so, obstacles can often stand in the way of executives who wish to study an EMBA—more often than not they are mid-career professionals with family and job commitments leaning heavily on the time constraints extra study requires.

So, the salary return post-graduation is vital when it comes to choosing where to study.

The average salary increase of 75% after graduating from Cass Business School’s EMBA program makes London an attractive proposition for executive education.

ESCP Europe’s EMBA—ranked among the top 10 programs globally in 2017 by the Financial Times—also offers a lucrative average salary increase of 62%.

Students can also enroll on the school’s itinerant study track—rotating between five of the six ESCP campuses including Beirut, London, Berlin, Paris, or Turin—which gives them a grounding in current, global business trends.

But leading the way in terms of salary uplift is China.

Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s EMBA tops the Financial Times' EMBA rankings in terms of salary increase, offering an increase of 107% in the years following graduation, followed by the University of Hong Kong with 104%. Warwick Business School is the UK’s sole representative in the top five, offering an increase of 92%.

China is also at the forefront in terms of annual salary three years after graduation. Graduates of the combined EMBA between Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Kellogg School of Business have an annual salary of nearly $480,000 three years after their EMBA.

China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) is also in the top five, with its graduates sitting on a healthy $330,000 a year three years after graduating—they are followed by alumni of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA, a three-way degree split between NYU Stern Business School, London School of Economics, and HEC Paris

Student Reviews

Bayes Business School

Student

Verified

31/10/2023

On Campus

Best Journalism school in Europe

When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home. The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe! The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro. The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd. Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer! City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.

Lydia

Verified

23/02/2023

On Campus

Learning environment

The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.

Nathaniel

Verified

24/01/2023

On Campus

Classes

I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London

Muhammad

Verified

24/01/2023

On Campus

Classes

The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.

Dorah

Verified

23/01/2023

On Campus

professors

The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather

Nora

Verified

17/12/2022

On Campus

The best university I’ve been to

The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.

Antonia

Verified

21/11/2022

On Campus

Bayes Business School

As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.

Muhammad

Verified

15/11/2022

On Campus

Economics and Politics

Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.

Navya

Verified

11/11/2022

On Campus

Clinical biology

I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society

Chen

Verified

5/10/2024

Blended

Unlocking My Potential at City University London

My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.

Elora

Verified

28/08/2024

On Campus

Rather interesting

The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.

Barbara

Verified

28/08/2024

On Campus

Urban campus life

At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities

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