Louisiana, with its growing economy and bustling industries such as energy, healthcare, and tourism, offers fertile ground for professionals seeking to advance their careers through Executive MBA (EMBA) programs. Designed for mid-career to senior-level professionals, EMBA programs in Louisiana provide the leadership, strategic, and management skills necessary to thrive in competitive industries.
Top Executive MBA Programs in Louisiana
1. Tulane University – A.B. Freeman School of Business
Overview
Tulane University’s A.B. Freeman School of Business offers one of the most prestigious Executive MBA programs in Louisiana. The program is tailored for experienced professionals who want to enhance their leadership and business acumen without pausing their careers. Tulane’s EMBA is recognized for its rigorous academic standards, leadership focus, and global perspective.
Program Structure
- Duration: 17 months
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Modality: Hybrid (in-person and online components)
- Class Schedule: Bi-weekly weekend classes (Friday and Saturday)
Key Features
- Leadership Development: A core focus on leadership and strategic decision-making equips professionals with the tools needed for executive roles.
- Global Perspective: An international trip is included as part of the curriculum, allowing students to experience global markets and strategies.
- Team-Based Learning: Tulane’s program emphasizes collaborative projects and group work to simulate real-world business challenges.
- Executive Coaching: Students receive personalized coaching to further refine their leadership style and career strategy.
Admission Requirements
- Minimum of 7-10 years of professional work experience, preferably in leadership roles
- GMAT/GRE not typically required
- Application materials include essays, resume, letters of recommendation, and an interview
Benefits
- Prestigious business school with a global reputation
- Personalized executive coaching and leadership development
- International immersion experience
- Flexible schedule tailored to working professionals
2. Louisiana State University (LSU) – E. J. Ourso College of Business
Overview
The LSU Executive MBA program, offered through the E. J. Ourso College of Business, is designed for professionals looking to deepen their knowledge of business fundamentals and sharpen their leadership skills. LSU’s EMBA emphasizes practical learning, leadership development, and networking opportunities.
Program Structure
- Duration: 20 months
- Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Modality: Hybrid (combination of in-person residencies and online learning)
- Class Schedule: Bi-weekly weekend classes (Saturday)
Key Features
- Hybrid Format: The program combines in-person sessions with online learning for flexibility.
- Capstone Project: The capstone project enables students to apply their learning to real-world business problems, often directly related to their current jobs or industries.
- Leadership and Strategy Focus: Courses emphasize strategic management, financial acumen, and leadership in dynamic environments.
- Global Immersion: The program includes an international business trip, exposing students to different markets and global business strategies.
Admission Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years of professional work experience, with leadership responsibilities preferred
- GMAT/GRE may be waived depending on experience
- Application materials include essays, resume, references, and an interview
Benefits
- Access to LSU’s extensive alumni network and business connections
- Flexible hybrid format, allowing students to balance work and education
- Leadership-focused curriculum with practical applications
- Global exposure through an international immersion experience
3. University of Louisiana at Lafayette – B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration
Overview
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Executive MBA program is designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership and management skills. The program’s focus is on practical applications, leadership development, and business strategies, making it ideal for those looking to advance in their careers without stepping away from their current roles.
Program Structure
- Duration: 16 months
- Location: Lafayette, Louisiana
- Modality: In-person
- Class Schedule: Every other weekend (Saturday and Sunday)
Key Features
- Accelerated Format: The 16-month structure allows students to complete their degree more quickly than traditional EMBA programs.
- Leadership Focus: The curriculum focuses on leadership skills and strategic thinking, with courses designed to address the challenges of managing organizations in today’s complex environments.
- Capstone Project: The program culminates in a capstone project where students apply what they’ve learned to solve real business problems.
- Small Class Sizes: Small cohorts foster close relationships between students and faculty, providing personalized attention and enhanced networking opportunities.
Admission Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years of professional experience, preferably in managerial or leadership roles
- GMAT is not required for most applicants
- Application materials include essays, resume, and letters of recommendation
Benefits
- Accelerated program allows for quick degree completion
- Focus on leadership and practical business skills
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction and networking
- Convenient weekend schedule for working professionals
4. Southern University and A&M College – College of Business
Overview
Southern University’s Executive MBA program is designed to help professionals in mid-to-senior management roles develop the skills needed to excel in leadership positions. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of core business functions while focusing on leadership and organizational strategy.
Program Structure
- Duration: 18 months
- Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Modality: Hybrid (combination of in-person and online learning)
- Class Schedule: Classes meet on weekends, with online modules in between
Key Features
- Hybrid Learning: The program offers flexibility through its combination of weekend in-person classes and online learning modules.
- Leadership Development: Courses focus on leadership, ethical decision-making, and organizational management, preparing students for executive roles.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to address contemporary business issues, such as globalization, digital transformation, and innovation.
- Capstone Project: Students complete a capstone project that allows them to apply their learning to a real-world business scenario.
Admission Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years of professional experience, preferably with leadership responsibilities
- GMAT may be required, though waivers are available for highly experienced candidates
- Application materials include resume, essays, and letters of recommendation
Benefits
- Flexible hybrid learning format suitable for working professionals
- Focus on leadership and ethical decision-making
- Opportunity to apply learning to real-world challenges through the capstone project
- Strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion in leadership
5. Southeastern Louisiana University – College of Business
Overview
Southeastern Louisiana University offers an Executive MBA program designed to meet the needs of professionals looking to advance their careers while maintaining their work-life balance. The program is focused on leadership, innovation, and practical business applications, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
Program Structure
- Duration: 18 months
- Location: Hammond, Louisiana
- Modality: Hybrid (combination of online and in-person learning)
- Class Schedule: Classes meet on alternating weekends (Friday and Saturday)
Key Features
- Leadership and Innovation: The program emphasizes leadership and innovation, preparing students to manage and lead in dynamic environments.
- Flexible Format: The hybrid format allows professionals to continue working while earning their degree.
- Practical Applications: The curriculum focuses on practical applications of business concepts, with real-world case studies and projects integrated into the coursework.
- Global Exposure: Students have the opportunity to participate in an international immersion trip, providing exposure to global business practices.
Admission Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years of professional experience, preferably with leadership responsibilities
- GMAT may be required for some applicants, though waivers are available
- Application materials include essays, resume, and letters of recommendation
Benefits
- Flexible schedule tailored to working professionals
- Strong focus on leadership and innovation
- Global business exposure through international immersion
- Practical, hands-on learning through case studies and projects