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What to Expect When You Earn Your Executive MBA Online

December 11, 2024

Increased computing power and bandwidth capacities sparked the rise of content-rich online learning in the early 2000s; online education has been growing ever since, permeating formal education and professional training. Students love it for many reasons, not least because it vastly broadens their options; they no longer have to live near a great university to complete academic work there.

The online format has become especially popular with MBA students, whose busy professional and personal lives leave little time for on-campus study. Remote learning eliminates the need to commute to and from campus; flexible asynchronous content accessible 24/7 enables students to study at their convenience. 

Online learning also allows students worldwide to attend an MBA program at renowned institutions like Howard University. Howard offers several online MBA options, including an Online Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) for experienced professionals looking to advance into senior leadership positions. This article explores the design, curriculum, and faculty of Howard’s EMBA program for students interested in an online learning environment.

The Howard University Executive MBA Online Design

Howard’s 100 percent online EMBA combines asynchronous coursework with live synchronous classes to provide a flexible and accessible learning environment. This format enables students to manage their studies around work commitments while benefiting from direct contact with faculty and peers. Small class sizes foster strong connections through interactive lectures, breakout rooms, and class discussions. The diverse student body also enriches the learning experience, promoting meaningful discussions and enhancing cultural competence. 

A Curriculum Built for Business Leaders

The 42-credit Howard EMBA program enhances the skills of experienced leaders with substantial management experience, empowering them to make informed business decisions and lead high-performing teams. The inclusive EMBA curriculum comprises 14 courses that cover essential business disciplines. 

The first two terms build on leaders’ existing knowledge and experience, with coursework covering organizational behavior, marketing strategy, financial and managerial accounting, economics, entrepreneurship, and information systems and technologies. The remaining courses explore strategic communication, data analysis, supply chain management, legal and ethical issues, and the global business environment. In a capstone course, students apply their knowledge to create plans that solve complex business challenges.

Upon program completion, students should possess the knowledge and skills to analyze the global business environment, use data analysis to inform decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and develop effective business plans. 

Connect with Howard University’s Expert Business Faculty

Howard EMBA faculty members interact with students during synchronous courses and offer additional support through Zoom office hours. The faculty includes diverse leaders with decades of experience across various disciplines, including international business, information systems, and finance. These experts actively engage in their fields and earn recognition for their industry contributions. Notable faculty members and their achievements include: 

  • Rajni Goel, associate dean of academic affairs and a former Fulbright-Nehru Scholar in India, directs Howard’s Cybersecurity Education and Research Center. She served as Cybersecurity Speaker in Malaysia for the U.S. Department of State’s International Information Programs. 
  • Subodh Kulkarni, department chair management/professor, has presented his research internationally in publications like Organization Studies and the Journal of International Management. He has participated in several grants awarded by organizations, including the National Science Foundation and the Young African Leaders Initiative. 
  • Raymond Smith has received national awards for his research, including the John Jack Best Paper Award. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles on strategic management, minority entrepreneurship, and business ethics.

A Social Learning Environment 

Howard’s online EMBA provides hands-on learning experiences that allow you to build your network and make lifelong connections to support your future career. The program uses various tools to ensure a high-quality learning experience across both synchronous and asynchronous components. Canvas manages course materials and communication, Zoom supports face-to-face learning and collaboration, Yellowdig enhances social learning and engagement, and Qualtrics collects feedback for continuous improvement.

Howard’s Career Center provides career and professional development services to help students launch careers or transition to new roles. Resources include partnerships with leading corporations, virtual activities, lecture series, and networking opportunities with alumni, faculty, and business professionals.

Start an Executive MBA Online and On Your Schedule 

Howard University’s flexible online EMBA program equips busy professionals with the skills and cultural competence for effective leadership in a global marketplace. Students benefit from a robust learning experience that provides comprehensive career support and fosters lifelong connections, contributing to ongoing career growth.

Connect with an enrollment advisor to learn more about the online learning experience or receive personalized application guidance. If you’re ready to begin your journey, review the admission requirements and start your application.

Download a brochure and learn more about Howard University School of Business online Master's programs.