Connecticut, with its proximity to major financial centers like New York and Boston, offers a variety of Executive MBA (EMBA) programs tailored to working professionals looking to advance their careers without putting their jobs on hold. These programs, often designed for mid- to senior-level managers, aim to provide students with the skills necessary to lead organizations through today’s complex business environments.
1. Yale School of Management
Yale School of Management (SOM) is one of the most prestigious business schools globally, and its EMBA program is no exception. Yale SOM’s EMBA focuses on developing leaders with a strong understanding of the broader social, political, and economic contexts of business.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 22 months
- Format: In-person classes on alternate weekends (Friday and Saturday)
- Class Size: Small, cohort-based structure
- Tuition: Approximately $205,500 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Integrated Core Curriculum: Yale SOM’s curriculum integrates business disciplines such as finance, operations, marketing, and strategy, providing a comprehensive understanding of modern business management.
- Areas of Focus:
- Asset Management
- Healthcare
- Sustainability
- Global Network: Access to the Yale Global Network for Advanced Management, which connects students with more than 30 top business schools globally.
- Leadership Development: Leadership skill-building is embedded throughout the program, with a focus on ethical decision-making and global leadership.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 8 years, with 5 years of managerial experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Not required but considered if submitted.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions, typically between November and June.
2. University of Connecticut School of Business
The University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Business offers a highly regarded EMBA program designed to empower professionals to ascend to executive roles. The program focuses on delivering advanced business knowledge, leadership skills, and an expansive business network.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 20 months
- Format: Weekend classes (every other Saturday) in downtown Hartford
- Class Size: Cohort-based
- Tuition: Approximately $95,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Applied Learning: The program is structured to allow students to immediately apply what they learn to their current positions, enhancing both their work performance and academic experience.
- Global Business Focus: UConn’s EMBA offers a global perspective with international study opportunities and exposure to global business challenges.
- Executive Coaching: Students receive personalized executive coaching throughout the program, helping them enhance their leadership abilities and career trajectory.
- Networking Opportunities: The program fosters a strong alumni network and offers multiple opportunities to connect with Connecticut’s business leaders.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years of professional experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Optional, though candidates may submit test scores to strengthen their applications.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions, typically with deadlines in January, April, and June.
3. Quinnipiac University School of Business
Quinnipiac University’s EMBA program is aimed at experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers while continuing to work. The program is structured to enhance leadership and decision-making skills through a multidisciplinary approach to management.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 22 months
- Format: Hybrid (a combination of on-campus and online coursework)
- Class Size: Small cohorts to ensure personalized attention
- Tuition: Approximately $85,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Leadership Focus: Quinnipiac’s EMBA emphasizes leadership development, encouraging students to explore their leadership potential through experiential learning and reflective exercises.
- Cross-Functional Approach: The curriculum emphasizes how various functions within a business (e.g., finance, marketing, HR) interrelate, preparing students to manage cross-functional teams effectively.
- Capstone Project: Students complete a strategic management capstone project that requires them to develop and present a comprehensive business strategy.
- Flexibility for Working Professionals: The hybrid format ensures that students can balance work commitments while pursuing their degree.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: 5+ years of professional work experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Not required.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions, typically three intakes per year.
4. Sacred Heart University – Jack Welch College of Business & Technology
Sacred Heart University’s Executive MBA program, offered through the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, is designed to transform experienced professionals into impactful leaders by providing them with critical business insights and advanced management tools.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 18 months
- Format: On-campus, with classes held on Saturdays
- Class Size: Small, personalized learning environment
- Tuition: Approximately $75,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Focus on Innovation and Leadership: The program includes courses in leadership, strategic management, and innovation, all aimed at fostering a creative approach to solving complex business challenges.
- Business Strategy: The EMBA focuses heavily on strategic decision-making, providing students with the skills necessary to lead in a dynamic business environment.
- Global Perspective: Students have the opportunity to engage in global immersion experiences, including international business trips designed to expose them to global markets and practices.
- Jack Welch Leadership Center: Students have access to this center, which provides mentorship and professional development resources.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 8 years of professional experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Not required.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions with several deadlines throughout the year.
5. Fairfield University Dolan School of Business
Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business offers a unique, cohort-based EMBA program that prepares business leaders to excel in an ever-changing global economy. The program is tailored to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex challenges in business.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 20 months
- Format: Hybrid (combining online and in-person classes)
- Class Size: Small, with an emphasis on peer collaboration
- Tuition: Approximately $85,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Integrated Curriculum: The Dolan School of Business offers an integrated curriculum that weaves together leadership, innovation, sustainability, and business ethics.
- Experiential Learning: The program uses real-world business cases and hands-on projects to reinforce classroom learning.
- Executive Mentorship: Students are paired with executive mentors who guide them throughout the program, offering advice and insight into navigating the complexities of leadership.
- International Immersion: The program includes an international immersion experience where students can apply what they’ve learned in a global business context.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Waived for qualified applicants.
- Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with several intake periods.
6. University of Hartford – Barney School of Business
The University of Hartford’s Barney School of Business offers an Executive MBA program designed to develop leadership skills and strategic thinking. The program is intended for professionals looking to advance their careers while continuing to work full-time.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 24 months
- Format: Hybrid, with classes held on alternating weekends
- Class Size: Small cohorts to facilitate personalized interaction
- Tuition: Approximately $80,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Focus on Leadership and Strategy: The program emphasizes leadership development, ethical decision-making, and strategic management.
- Customizable Curriculum: Students can customize their coursework to fit their career goals by choosing electives that align with their professional interests.
- International Experience: The program includes an international business experience that allows students to explore business operations in different cultural and economic environments.
- Career Coaching: Students have access to professional career coaches who help them navigate career transitions and leadership development.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: A minimum of 7 years of professional experience, with significant managerial responsibility.
- GMAT/GRE: Waived for applicants with substantial work experience.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions with deadlines throughout the year.
7. Central Connecticut State University
Central Connecticut State University offers an affordable, part-time EMBA program that provides practical business education tailored to mid-career professionals. The program emphasizes applied learning and leadership development.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 24 months
- Format: Hybrid, with classes on weekends and online
- Class Size: Small, cohort-based model
- Tuition: Approximately $40,000 (2023-2024 academic year)
Key Features
- Affordability: One of the most affordable EMBA programs in Connecticut, offering a cost-effective way for professionals to advance their careers.
- Applied Learning: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with students working on real business projects that can be applied to their current roles.
- Leadership Development: The curriculum includes a strong focus on leadership and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to take on senior management roles.
- Flexible Schedule: The hybrid format makes it easier for working professionals to balance their education with their job responsibilities.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience.
- GMAT/GRE: Waived for applicants with significant work experience.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions with deadlines typically in the fall and spring semesters.