Delaware is a small yet strategically important state in the U.S., with a thriving economy and a business-friendly environment. Its proximity to major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., makes it an ideal location for professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining close connections to key industries. Although Delaware has fewer higher education institutions than larger states, it offers a strong selection of Executive MBA (EMBA) programs that cater to mid- and senior-level professionals.
University of Delaware – Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics Executive MBA
Overview
The University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics offers one of the most highly regarded Executive MBA programs in the state. This program is designed for experienced professionals who seek to enhance their leadership capabilities, expand their business acumen, and connect with a strong network of peers and industry leaders.
Key Features
- Program Length: 16 months
- Delivery Mode: In-person with hybrid components
- Class Schedule: Every other weekend (Friday and Saturday)
- Location: University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
Curriculum
The EMBA program at Lerner College focuses on equipping executives with the tools they need to excel in a global business environment. The core curriculum includes:
- Strategic Leadership and Organizational Behavior
- Financial and Managerial Accounting
- Marketing Strategy
- Business Analytics and Decision-Making
- Global Business Management
The program also includes elective courses that allow participants to customize their learning experience based on their specific career goals. Key electives include topics such as entrepreneurship, healthcare management, and innovation.
Global Immersion Experience
One of the highlights of the Lerner College EMBA is the Global Immersion Experience, which takes students on a week-long international trip to explore global business practices, engage with international executives, and study global markets.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years, with significant management experience
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required from an accredited institution
- GMAT/GRE: Waived for qualified applicants with substantial work experience
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview: Required for shortlisted candidates
Unique Selling Points
- Focus on Global Business: The Global Immersion Experience is a cornerstone of the program, offering students real-world exposure to international business practices.
- Executive Networking: Participants in the program are mid- to senior-level professionals, creating a strong peer network that enhances career advancement opportunities.
- Leadership Development: The program places a strong emphasis on leadership, helping executives refine their leadership style and strategic decision-making abilities.
Goldey-Beacom College – Executive MBA
Overview
Goldey-Beacom College, a private institution in Wilmington, Delaware, offers a flexible Executive MBA program that is tailored to the needs of busy professionals. The program emphasizes practical business knowledge and leadership skills, preparing executives for higher levels of responsibility within their organizations.
Key Features
- Program Length: 18-24 months
- Delivery Mode: Fully online or hybrid (a combination of online and in-person classes)
- Class Schedule: Asynchronous online learning with occasional weekend residencies
- Location: Wilmington, Delaware (for hybrid options)
Curriculum
Goldey-Beacom’s EMBA program provides a comprehensive business education with a focus on leadership and innovation. The core curriculum includes:
- Strategic Management
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Operations Management
- Organizational Leadership
- Global Business Strategy
The program also includes a capstone project that allows students to apply their learning to a real-world business challenge, providing immediate value to their employers.
Global Business Focus
For students interested in expanding their global perspective, the Goldey-Beacom EMBA offers optional international study trips, where participants can explore business practices in different regions and develop a deeper understanding of global markets.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years in a managerial or leadership role
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required
- GMAT/GRE: Waivers available for experienced professionals
- Professional References
- Personal Interview: Required for selected candidates
Unique Selling Points
- Flexible Learning Options: The ability to choose between fully online or hybrid learning formats makes the program ideal for busy executives who need flexibility.
- Global Study Options: The optional international trips offer valuable insights into global markets and help executives broaden their global business knowledge.
- Small Class Sizes: Goldey-Beacom offers a personalized learning environment with small cohorts, allowing for more meaningful interaction with faculty and peers.
Wilmington University – Executive MBA
Overview
Wilmington University offers an Executive MBA program designed for working professionals who want to enhance their leadership skills and advance to senior roles in their organizations. The program is offered in a flexible online format, allowing executives to continue working full-time while pursuing their degree.
Key Features
- Program Length: 12-18 months
- Delivery Mode: 100% online
- Class Schedule: Asynchronous online courses with flexible scheduling
- Location: Online (Wilmington University is based in New Castle, Delaware)
Curriculum
The Wilmington University EMBA program focuses on building leadership capabilities and strategic thinking through a combination of core business courses and leadership development modules. Key areas of study include:
- Strategic Leadership and Decision Making
- Corporate Finance
- Marketing Management
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
The program concludes with a capstone project that challenges students to apply their learning to a real-world business problem, delivering actionable insights and solutions.
Leadership Development
A key emphasis of the Wilmington EMBA is leadership development. The program incorporates executive coaching, leadership assessments, and personal development plans to help students become more effective leaders.
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Minimum of 7 years, with leadership experience
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required
- GMAT/GRE: Not required
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Interview: Recommended for candidates with less traditional backgrounds
Unique Selling Points
- Fully Online Format: The program’s 100% online delivery allows executives to complete the program from anywhere in the world, making it ideal for professionals with demanding schedules.
- Leadership Focus: Wilmington University places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills, providing executive coaching and personalized leadership development plans.
- Accelerated Completion: The program’s flexible pacing allows motivated students to complete their degree in as little as 12 months.
Delaware State University – Executive MBA (Planned)
Overview
Delaware State University (DSU) is a historically Black college and university (HBCU) that has announced plans to launch its own Executive MBA program. While the program is still in development, it is expected to provide a unique blend of leadership development, entrepreneurship, and social impact, reflecting DSU’s commitment to serving diverse and underrepresented communities.
Key Features
- Program Length: Expected to be 18-24 months
- Delivery Mode: Hybrid (in-person and online components)
- Class Schedule: Likely to include evening or weekend sessions to accommodate working professionals
- Location: Dover, Delaware
Curriculum
While the curriculum for the planned DSU EMBA is still under development, it is expected to focus on key business disciplines, including:
- Strategic Management and Leadership
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Financial Management
- Global Business and Economics
- Corporate Social Responsibility
The program is also expected to include a capstone project and potentially an international business component, allowing students to apply their learning in a global context.
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for the DSU EMBA program are yet to be finalized, but they are likely to include:
- Work Experience: At least 5-10 years in a managerial or leadership role
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required
- GMAT/GRE: Likely to be optional or waived for experienced professionals
- Personal Statement
- Professional References
- Interview: Likely to be part of the selection process
Unique Selling Points
- HBCU Experience: As a historically Black university, DSU offers a diverse and inclusive learning environment, particularly for executives who want to lead with a focus on social impact and diversity.
- Entrepreneurship Focus: DSU’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation will be attractive to executives looking to start or grow their own businesses.
- Commitment to Social Responsibility: DSU’s focus on corporate social responsibility will appeal to leaders who want to make a positive impact in their organizations and communities.