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How To Choose The Right Executive MBA Program In India

Find out all about the best Executive MBA programs in India and how you can choose which is best for you

Thu May 25 2023

BusinessBecause
An Executive MBA (EMBA) is a graduate-level business program designed for experienced professionals who wish to continue working while pursuing their studies. The EMBA typically requires several years of work experience as a prerequisite for admission.

EMBA programs provide an extensive range of specializations for students to choose from, including Finance, International Business, Sales and Marketing, Business Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Operations Management. 

The program's coursework is typically rigorous and emphasizes practical applications, focusing on the development of leadership and management skills for executives. By pursuing a full-time Executive MBA, professionals can gain a deep understanding of the latest business theories and practices, as well as practical insights into how to handle emerging business issues.

EMBA programs are often delivered in a part-time format, allowing students to continue working while they study. Classes are typically held on weekends or in the evenings, with occasional on-campus residencies. The program duration is typically one year.


How is EMBA different from PGPM?

The Postgraduate Program in Management (PGPM) is similar to the regular MBA in terms of curriculum and admission criteria, but it is usually a one-year, full-time program. The EMBA, on the other hand, is a part-time program, designed for working professionals.

So, while there may be some overlap in the course content, the EMBA and PGPM are not exactly the same. The EMBA is tailored for experienced executives and is often more flexible to accommodate their busy schedules, while the PGPM is geared towards recent graduates or those with limited work experience.


Is it worth the investment and how to choose the right college? 

For many professionals, an EMBA can be a worthwhile investment as it can lead to significant career advancement opportunities, higher salaries, and enhanced leadership and management skills. 

The program can also provide students with an opportunity to expand their professional network, develop a global perspective, and gain access to the latest business practices and technologies.

Choosing the right college for an EMBA program is crucial for professionals who are seeking career growth and advancement. The reputation of the college plays a critical role in shaping the future prospects of the students. 


How can an EMBA can boost your career?

An EMBA can provide several benefits that can significantly elevate career prospects.

"ISB’s Postgraduate Programme in Management for Working Professionals (PGPpro) helped me upskill and apply the learnings in my work.” Akshey Walia, ISB PGPpro Class of 2020 who is working as a Senior Product Manager in Glance (InMobi) says. “The program not only cemented my learnings and showcased immediate impact to my employers, but also fast-tracked my career trajectory and helped me pivot easily into product management, which is a highly sought-after career choice for professionals in the technology space.”

"While choosing the right MBA course for myself, I felt trapped by many private players' fancy ads. Soon I realized that they were charging hefty fees as compared to the results they were delivering because their curriculum was not industry-friendly,” says Tulsi Singh, COO of Shalex Meditech who completed her EMBA from IIFT in 2019. 

“I chose an EMBA from a government institute because they are affordable and the courses are designed as per the industry requirements, which increases the chances of growth. The Executive MBA helped me grow from product manager to Chief Operating Officer of a Medical Device Company."


Top EMBAs in the world according to Financial Times EMBA Ranking 2022



Top Executive MBA Programs In India


ISB Executive MBA

Indian School Business holds the 44th position in Financial Times EMBA Ranking 2022. The PGPpro is a blended Executive MBA program tailored to meet the needs of working professionals. This program is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to become global leaders.

The program is led by world-class faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Through a blend of theoretical and practical learning, participants will develop profound strategic and leadership insights that will enable them to tackle complex business challenges.

Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline.

Work experience: Over five years of full-time work experience.

Duration: 18 Months

Fees: INR 35,90,680 ($43,930)


IIM Bangalore Executive MBA

IIM Bangalore comes 86th in the Financial Times’ EMBA Ranking 2022. The Executive Postgraduate Program in Management (EPGP), is an intensive one-year full-time residential program for experienced professionals. 

Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline.  A valid GMAT or CAT score.

Duration: One year.

Work Experience: five to 12 years of full-time work experience in a wide range of industries.

Fees: INR 23,00,000 ($28,138).


IIM Ahmedabad Executive MBA

IIM Ahmedabad’s Postgraduate Program in Management for Executives (PGPX) is designed for executives who want to advance their careers, assume high-level responsibilities, and prepare for the changing global economy. 

The program looks to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and the mindset required to succeed as business leaders in today's competitive environment. Students are challenged to think creatively, develop innovative solutions, and make strategic decisions that drive organizational success.

Education: A bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline.  A valid GMAT/GRE score.

Work Experience: Minimum four years of full-time work experience.

Duration: One year.

Fees: INR 31,50,000 ($38,535).


IIM Calcutta Executive MBA

IIM Calcutta's MBA for Executives Program is a one-year, full-time residential program for executives with more than five years of professional experience. 

IIM Calcutta is the first management institute in the country to be triple crowned–accredited by three major accreditation bodies, AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.

Education: A bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline. A valid GMAT score.

Duration: One year.

Work Experience: More than five years of full-time work experience.

Fees: INR 31,00,000 ($37,916)