top of page

McCombs Executive MBA

  • Writer: AISHIKI SIKDER
    AISHIKI SIKDER
  • Aug 11
  • 21 min read

The McCombs School of Business Executive MBA (EMBA) program at The University of Texas at Austin stands out as a premier option for seasoned professionals seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities while maintaining their full-time careers. Known for its rigorous academic standards, strategic curriculum, and strong industry connections, the McCombs EMBA blends the prestige of a top-tier business school with the flexibility required by executives.


Table of Contents



McCombs Executive MBA

Introduction to the McCombs Executive MBA Program

In today’s competitive business landscape, an Executive MBA is no longer just a credential—it’s a transformation tool. Whether you're an established leader looking to scale your impact or a rising executive ready to pivot into new opportunities, the McCombs EMBA program provides the strategic insight, executive-level thinking, and peer learning needed to lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.


Why McCombs?

Located in Austin, Texas, a burgeoning tech and business hub, McCombs offers unmatched access to innovative companies, thriving startups, and Fortune 500 headquarters. This setting provides EMBA students with unique opportunities to bridge theory with real-world application and connect with industry leaders through corporate engagements, guest lectures, and case studies rooted in live business scenarios.


In addition, McCombs' reputation for academic excellence is complemented by its strong focus on leadership development and entrepreneurial thinking. The program attracts professionals from diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, finance, energy, and consulting, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and innovation.


Key Highlights of the McCombs EMBA Program

  • Ranked among the top EMBA programs in the United States by U.S. News & World Report and Financial Times

  • Austin-based program that leverages the city’s dynamic business ecosystem

  • Weekend format tailored for working professionals (Friday and Saturday sessions every other week)

  • Global business perspective via immersive learning and potential international exposure

  • Access to the UT Austin alumni network—over 500,000 strong worldwide


Who Should Consider the McCombs EMBA?

The program is ideal for mid-to-senior-level professionals who want to accelerate their leadership trajectory without interrupting their careers. If you have 10–15 years of work experience, a track record of increasing responsibility, and a desire to lead transformative initiatives, the McCombs EMBA can help you sharpen your skills and broaden your strategic vision.


Whether you're aiming to transition into a C-suite role, launch a venture, or expand your impact within your organization, this program offers the intellectual challenge and leadership edge to help you achieve your goals.


McCombs EMBA Program Structure and Duration

The McCombs Executive MBA program is strategically structured to deliver a world-class business education without requiring professionals to pause their careers. Spanning 21 months, the program combines a rigorous academic curriculum with flexible scheduling, immersive learning experiences, and leadership development tailored for working executives. This structure ensures students can apply classroom knowledge directly to their workplace challenges in real time.


Core Program Details

The McCombs EMBA is delivered in a cohort-based format, encouraging peer learning and long-term relationship building. The program begins in August and runs over five semesters, ending in May of the second academic year.

Key features of the structure include:

  • Class Schedule: Classes meet every other weekend (Friday and Saturday) at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center on the UT Austin campus. This format accommodates busy professionals from across Texas and beyond.

  • Residency Weeks: The program starts with an intensive residency week to immerse students into the McCombs community and the foundational principles of leadership and strategic thinking.

  • Global Trip: In the second year, students participate in a global immersion experience, which combines academic rigor with international business exposure in a key global market.

  • Capstone Project: Students conclude the program with a Strategic Capstone, applying the tools and concepts learned throughout the program to solve real-world business challenges.


McCombs EMBA Program Structure: Snapshot

Feature

Details

Program Duration

21 months

Start Date

August

Class Format

Every other weekend (Friday & Saturday)

Location

AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, UT Austin

Residency Weeks

2 (Program Kick-off & Global Immersion)

Capstone Project

Strategic Business Challenge

Credits Required

48 total credits

Class Hours

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM during weekend sessions

Average Weekly Commitment

15–20 hours outside class for reading, projects, and assignments

Flexibility and Cohort Strength

The structured bi-weekly weekend format allows students to:

  • Maintain full-time work responsibilities

  • Immediately implement newly acquired skills in real business scenarios

  • Network and build camaraderie with a diverse, high-performing cohort

This structure also fosters a supportive environment for executives to reflect, collaborate, and grow together. Each cohort becomes a tight-knit learning community, often creating long-lasting professional and personal connections.


Technology and Hybrid Learning Support

While McCombs emphasizes in-person learning to maximize peer interaction and leadership presence, the program is equipped with modern learning tools and virtual access when needed. This ensures continuity and flexibility in case of travel, work emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances.


Curriculum Overview and Specializations at McCombs EMBA

The McCombs Executive MBA curriculum is designed to develop strategic thinkers, ethical leaders, and global professionals. Rooted in both academic theory and real-world business application, the curriculum integrates core business fundamentals with strategic leadership development, quantitative analysis, and global perspectives. It caters specifically to professionals seeking to lead innovation, drive transformation, and navigate complex organizational dynamics.


A Balanced, Cohesive Curriculum

The EMBA curriculum at McCombs spans 48 credit hours across five semesters. The course progression is sequenced intentionally—starting with business foundations and advancing into strategic management, decision-making, and executive leadership.

It includes:

  • Core Courses (e.g., Accounting, Finance, Economics, Marketing, Operations)

  • Advanced Electives and Leadership-Focused Modules

  • Immersion Experiences (domestic and global)

  • Strategic Capstone Project

Each subject area integrates real-world case studies, live consulting projects, and insights from McCombs' world-renowned faculty and industry practitioners.


Curriculum Breakdown: Sample Course Timeline

Semester

Focus Areas

Sample Courses

Fall 1

Business Foundations, Strategic Thinking

Financial Accounting, Microeconomics, Strategic Management

Spring 1

Operational and Market Strategy

Operations Management, Marketing Management, Managerial Accounting

Summer

Corporate Finance, Leadership, Global Preparation

Corporate Finance, Leading People and Organizations, Global Economy

Fall 2

Innovation and Decision-Making

Strategic Innovation, Decision Analysis, Global Immersion Preparation

Spring 2

Capstone, Integration, Global Experience

Strategic Capstone Project, Global Immersion, Advanced Leadership Topics

Special Topics and Electives

Though the EMBA format does not offer extensive elective customization (unlike a full-time MBA), McCombs integrates several elective-like modules and experiential learning courses in:

  • Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation Strategy

  • Change Management and Organizational Behavior

  • Sustainable Business and ESG Strategies

Students also benefit from executive coaching, communications workshops, and access to cross-campus programming in entrepreneurship and innovation through UT Austin’s other departments.


Global Business Experience (GBE)

An important differentiator in the McCombs EMBA curriculum is the Global Business Experience, typically held in the spring semester of the second year. Students travel internationally to engage with global firms, attend executive seminars, and work on live case projects focused on global strategy, cross-cultural leadership, and market entry.

The GBE equips EMBA students with:

  • International exposure to business environments in Asia, Europe, or Latin America

  • Global networking opportunities

  • Firsthand insights into supply chains, global policy, and competitive strategy


Capstone Project

The program culminates in the Strategic Capstone Project, where students work in teams to tackle real business challenges—often from their own organizations or partner companies. This project enables students to integrate learning across disciplines, present to executive boards, and drive measurable impact.


In essence, the McCombs EMBA curriculum is not just about learning—it’s about leading, solving, and transforming. With its balanced focus on theory and application, domestic and global, quantitative and human-centered skills, the program shapes leaders equipped for today’s uncertainty and tomorrow’s opportunity.


Faculty and Teaching Excellence

One of the most defining strengths of the McCombs Executive MBA program is the exceptional quality of its faculty. The program is taught by some of the most renowned scholars, industry leaders, and award-winning educators in the world of business education. These faculty members bring not only deep academic expertise but also significant consulting and real-world business experience—creating an ideal learning environment for executive-level students.


A Faculty Committed to Executive Learning

McCombs EMBA students benefit from a faculty that understands the needs and demands of experienced professionals. These instructors go beyond traditional lecturing to facilitate executive dialogue, case-based learning, simulations, and experiential projects that are immediately applicable to students' current roles.


Many professors at McCombs are internationally recognized researchers, frequently published in journals such as the Harvard Business Review, Journal of Finance, Management Science, and Academy of Management Journal. But what sets them apart is their ability to translate complex ideas into actionable insights that executives can use.


Guest Lectures and Industry Experts

In addition to its full-time faculty, McCombs frequently brings in guest lecturers, industry leaders, and seasoned entrepreneurs to provide real-world context to classroom learning. This fusion of academic excellence and business insight ensures that students gain a 360-degree understanding of today’s dynamic business world.


Some guest speakers include:

  • Fortune 500 executives

  • Startup founders from Austin’s tech scene

  • Venture capitalists and private equity professionals

  • Policy leaders and economic advisors

These sessions not only add value to the learning experience but also open doors for professional networking and mentorship.


Executive Coaching and Leadership Labs

Beyond classroom instruction, McCombs offers personalized executive coaching and leadership labs to sharpen students' soft skills, executive presence, and conflict resolution abilities. Faculty coaches often provide:

  • One-on-one coaching sessions

  • 360-degree feedback assessments

  • Communication and public speaking workshops

  • Negotiation and influence training

This holistic faculty involvement helps EMBA students grow not just as managers but as visionary leaders who can drive organizational change.


Faculty Accessibility and Engagement

Despite their high-profile research and consulting engagements, McCombs faculty maintain a strong commitment to student mentorship and accessibility. Professors are known for being approachable, engaging in post-class discussions, and offering guidance on professional development or entrepreneurial ventures.

Many EMBA students cite faculty relationships as one of the most transformative aspects of the McCombs experience.


Class Profile and Peer Learning

One of the most compelling aspects of the McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) program is its diverse, accomplished, and collaborative cohort. Each class is carefully curated to ensure a dynamic mix of industries, leadership roles, and professional experiences. This intentional diversity transforms every classroom discussion into a rich, peer-driven learning experience where students gain insights far beyond textbooks and lectures.


Snapshot of the McCombs EMBA Class Profile

McCombs prioritizes assembling cohorts that bring broad perspectives and leadership maturity to the program. From senior managers and directors to C-suite executives and military veterans, the McCombs EMBA classroom reflects real-world diversity in career paths and problem-solving approaches.


McCombs EMBA Class Profile: Key Statistics

Category

Data (Approximate)

Average Work Experience

14–17 years

Average Age

38–42 years

Gender Diversity

~30–35% female

Industry Representation

Technology, Healthcare, Finance, Energy, Government, Military

Leadership Roles

Senior Managers, Directors, VPs, Entrepreneurs

Educational Backgrounds

Engineering, Business, Sciences, Humanities, Law

Geographic Representation

Primarily Texas, with students from across the U.S.

International Experience

60%+ with cross-border or global work experience


The Power of Peer Learning

What truly distinguishes the McCombs EMBA is how much students learn from one another. The program encourages collaborative case discussions, team-based projects, and cross-functional exercises that draw upon the varied real-world experiences of the cohort.

Some hallmarks of McCombs’ peer-learning environment include:

  • Cohort-Based Model: Students progress through the program together, building lasting personal and professional connections.

  • Team Assignments: Most coursework includes group projects, simulations, and presentations—emphasizing the power of diverse collaboration.

  • Peer Coaching & Feedback: Students often serve as mentors and coaches to one another, helping sharpen leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

  • Industry Roundtables: Cohort members regularly share industry-specific challenges and solutions, creating a rotating forum for applied learning.


Diversity in Thought and Background

Diversity at McCombs goes beyond race and gender—it encompasses thought leadership, work style, functional expertise, and international perspectives. This mix allows students to see their business challenges through different lenses, whether it’s an engineer's precision, a marketer’s storytelling, or a military leader’s strategic discipline.

Such a learning environment:

  • Sharpens critical thinking through exposure to opposing viewpoints

  • Prepares students for cross-functional and cross-cultural leadership

  • Enhances empathy and emotional intelligence—key to executive success


Lasting Bonds Beyond Graduation

The peer bonds formed in the McCombs EMBA program frequently extend well beyond the classroom. Alumni often cite their cohort as one of the most transformative elements of the program—a trusted network they turn to for advice, opportunities, and friendship years after graduation.

From startup ventures launched with classmates to leadership roles earned through referrals, the McCombs network starts in the classroom and continues for a lifetime.


The class profile and peer learning environment at McCombs are not just a feature—they are a strategic asset. In a world where collaboration, empathy, and cross-functional insight are essential for leadership, the McCombs EMBA provides a training ground where these skills are honed every day.


McCombs EMBA Career Development and Support Services

While many Executive MBA students at McCombs continue to advance within their current organizations, an increasing number use the program as a strategic pivot point—either to accelerate their trajectory, transition industries, or launch entrepreneurial ventures. To support these varied ambitions, the Texas McCombs Career Management team offers a full suite of executive-focused career development resources tailored specifically for experienced professionals.


Executive Career Coaching and Strategy

McCombs’ dedicated Executive Career Coaches provide one-on-one guidance throughout the EMBA journey and beyond. Recognizing the unique needs of mid-to-senior-level professionals, career advisors help EMBA students:

  • Clarify professional goals and leadership vision

  • Develop personal branding and positioning strategies

  • Navigate internal promotions or career transitions

  • Strengthen negotiation tactics and decision-making frameworks

Career coaching is confidential, strategic, and customized, helping each student align their professional identity with their post-EMBA goals.


McCombs EMBA Career Services: Offerings Overview

Career Support Area

Key Services Provided

Executive Coaching

Personalized sessions focused on goal-setting, brand development, and transitions

Workshops & Seminars

Topics include executive resumes, salary negotiation, and leadership presence

Resume & LinkedIn Optimization

Executive-level guidance for crafting impactful digital and offline profiles

Mock Interviews & Assessments

Behavioral and case-style practice tailored to leadership interviews

Access to Job Boards

Curated roles via McCombsConnect and UT Austin career systems

Alumni Career Webinars

Monthly sessions on leadership development, networking, and career pivots

Designed for Executives—Not Entry-Level Job Seekers

Unlike traditional MBA programs that focus heavily on campus recruiting, the McCombs EMBA career support system is designed for self-directed leaders who often find opportunities through networking, internal mobility, or board-level searches. As such, the career support philosophy emphasizes:

  • Strategic Networking over resume drops

  • Career Agility over narrowly defined roles

  • Value Articulation over job applications

EMBA students are coached to lead with impact and influence, not just technical skills.


Entrepreneurial and Intrapreneurial Support

For those pursuing entrepreneurial ventures or innovation within their organizations, McCombs offers access to:

  • Texas Innovation Center

  • Herb Kelleher Center for Entrepreneurship

  • Texas Venture Labs

  • Startup pitch competitions and mentorships with alumni founders

This ecosystem enables EMBA students to explore venture-building pathways, validate business ideas, or integrate startup thinking into legacy enterprises.


Long-Term Career Support for Alumni

One of the most valuable aspects of McCombs’ career development resources is that support doesn’t end at graduation. EMBA alumni continue to receive access to coaching, job boards, workshops, and the global McCombs alumni network.

This lifelong access ensures that no matter how your career evolves, you are never without guidance, connections, and tools to succeed.


Whether you're looking to climb the corporate ladder, pivot to a new industry, or launch your own venture, McCombs' career development services equip EMBA students with the insight, coaching, and executive polish needed to achieve their next big move—on their terms.


Leadership Development and Experiential Learning

The McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) program is deeply committed to cultivating transformational leaders—individuals who can navigate ambiguity, lead change, and drive growth in complex environments. The program blends theory and practice to offer a rigorous leadership development journey rooted in self-awareness, interpersonal effectiveness, strategic thinking, and real-world application.

At McCombs, leadership development is not an isolated module—it is a core philosophy woven throughout the curriculum and co-curricular experiences. From day one, EMBA students are challenged to reflect, evolve, and lead with purpose.


The Four Pillars of Leadership Development at McCombs

  1. Self-Discovery & Personal Growth Students begin with diagnostic tools like 360-degree assessments and leadership style inventories, helping them understand their strengths, blind spots, and values.

  2. Team Effectiveness & Influence Through team-based projects and leadership labs, students learn how to foster trust, manage conflicts, and lead high-performing teams.

  3. Strategic & Systems Thinking Courses such as Strategic Management, Competitive Advantage, and Innovation Execution train students to think holistically about organizations and the broader business landscape.

  4. Ethical & Authentic Leadership The program places emphasis on ethical decision-making, stakeholder accountability, and long-term value creation—not just quarterly gains.


Experiential Learning Components in the EMBA Program

Type of Experience

Description

Leadership Labs

Intensive sessions on communication, conflict resolution, and storytelling

Executive Simulations

Real-time decision-making games on crisis management and strategy

Capstone Strategy Project

A real-world consulting engagement with an organization

Global and Domestic Immersions

Hands-on learning in dynamic business ecosystems

Boardroom Leadership Practice

Scenario-based training to simulate boardroom dialogue and stakeholder management

Peer Coaching & Reflection Journals

Ongoing learning through self-reflection and cross-cohort mentorship


Leadership Labs and Coaching

A highlight of the leadership journey at McCombs is its Leadership Labs, which are action-oriented intensives designed to build executive presence, resilience, and persuasion. These labs cover topics like:

  • Storytelling for Leaders

  • Leading Through Conflict

  • Coaching and Mentoring Teams

  • Navigating Ambiguity and Change

In parallel, EMBA students receive individual leadership coaching, which supports their development goals and ensures progress is tracked throughout the program. Coaches are experienced in executive development and provide confidential, strategic insight tailored to each student's leadership path.


Capstone Project: Strategy in Action

The EMBA Capstone Project is an opportunity for students to apply everything they’ve learned to a real-world business challenge. Students work in teams to consult with a company—often a startup, nonprofit, or mid-sized enterprise—and deliver actionable strategies. This is not a simulation; it’s real leadership in action, with measurable impact and client feedback.


Leading with Purpose

More than anything, McCombs strives to produce leaders who are purpose-driven—individuals who lead with integrity, inclusiveness, and impact. The leadership development experience is designed to:

  • Promote inclusive decision-making

  • Foster emotional intelligence and self-mastery

  • Empower students to lead transformation, not just manage change


McCombs EMBA Global Exposure and Immersion Programs

In an era where leadership transcends borders, the McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) offers students unparalleled global exposure. The program is intentionally designed to prepare executives for the demands of international business leadership, providing immersive, hands-on experiences in major global markets. These global immersions are more than just academic trips—they are strategic learning journeys that blend cultural intelligence, geopolitical insight, and real-world business challenges.

By integrating global immersion modules into its core curriculum, McCombs ensures that EMBA students graduate with a refined understanding of how to operate, innovate, and lead in the interconnected global economy.


Overview of McCombs EMBA Global Exposure

Feature

Details

International Immersion

Week-long study tours to regions like Europe, Asia, or Latin America

Cross-Cultural Leadership Prep

Pre-immersion workshops on regional business norms and political context

Company Visits & Consulting Projects

In-market experiences with local and multinational companies

Global Strategy Courses

Taught by faculty with deep international experience

Alumni and Partner Networking

Events with global alumni and corporate partners

The Global Immersion Trip: A Closer Look

The centerpiece of the global learning experience is the International Immersion Trip, typically held in the second year of the program. This trip combines:

  • Lectures from in-region business experts and policy leaders

  • Visits to corporate headquarters, embassies, and innovation hubs

  • Case studies based on local challenges and emerging markets

  • Team-based strategy presentations to real executives

Past immersions have included destinations such as:

  • Shanghai and Shenzhen, China – Focus on tech innovation and supply chains

  • Berlin and Prague – Emphasis on EU business regulations and post-industrial entrepreneurship

  • São Paulo and Santiago – Insight into Latin American trade and economic volatility

  • Dubai and Abu Dhabi – Exploration of global finance and sustainable urban development


Building Global Business Acumen

What sets the McCombs EMBA global immersion apart is its integration of experiential learning with strategic business education. Students are encouraged to analyze foreign market entry, cultural barriers, and operational risks in real time. This boosts their:

  • Geopolitical awareness

  • Cross-cultural communication skills

  • Global expansion and M&A capabilities

  • International negotiation readiness

Students often collaborate on live consulting projects with partner firms abroad, offering solutions to challenges such as local market entry, product adaptation, or regulatory compliance.


Access to Global Alumni and Network Expansion

The immersion experience also connects students to the international McCombs and UT Austin alumni network, including executives, entrepreneurs, and policymakers working across continents. These connections expand professional opportunities and often lead to:

  • International job offers or assignments

  • Global business partnerships

  • Cross-border funding or mentorship for startups


Preparing Leaders for the Global Stage

In today’s globalized business world, leaders need to see beyond their local context. McCombs ensures that its EMBA graduates leave not just with classroom knowledge, but with the firsthand experience and cultural dexterity required to succeed on the world stage.

This global perspective becomes a distinctive advantage, positioning McCombs EMBA alumni as leaders who can thrive in diverse environments, build global teams, and navigate complex international challenges with confidence.


Alumni Network and Lifelong Connections

The McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) program isn’t just about what you learn during the two years of coursework; it’s also about what you gain from the global McCombs alumni network. One of the most significant benefits of the program is the opportunity to form lifelong connections with a highly accomplished group of peers, professors, and alumni who remain part of your professional ecosystem long after graduation.

As a McCombs EMBA graduate, you’ll be connected to a network of over 100,000 alumni across the world, with members in key industries and leadership roles in nearly every region. This robust network is a tremendous asset for both career development and entrepreneurial ventures, offering unparalleled access to resources, mentorship, and job opportunities.


The McCombs Alumni Network: A Global Community

McCombs alumni are known for their strong sense of community and commitment to helping fellow graduates. The alumni network spans:

  • Over 100,000 alumni worldwide, including leaders in finance, technology, healthcare, energy, and government

  • Regional alumni chapters in cities across the U.S. and abroad, offering opportunities for localized networking and professional development

  • Industry-specific groups that provide connections and knowledge exchange in sectors such as entrepreneurship, consulting, and non-profit leadership

Whether you’re seeking a mentor, exploring new career opportunities, or looking for strategic partners for a new venture, the McCombs alumni network is a vital resource that supports continued professional growth.


Networking and Lifelong Learning Opportunities

The benefits of the McCombs alumni network extend far beyond graduation. The lifetime access to the McCombs community allows graduates to tap into resources for career progression, leadership development, and industry insights. Key elements of the alumni network include:

Alumni Networking Features

Description

Global Alumni Events

Regular events and conferences with industry leaders and key speakers

Industry-specific Networking

Opportunities to connect with alumni in your field or interest area

Reunion Programs

Biennial reunions where alumni reconnect and share professional updates

Mentorship Programs

Alumni offer guidance to current students and fellow graduates

Exclusive Career Opportunities

Job boards and professional resources shared within the network

Additionally, McCombs alumni have access to a wealth of resources designed to help them remain at the cutting edge of business and leadership. These include:

  • Continuing education opportunities: Access to professional development courses and workshops through McCombs and UT Austin

  • Online learning platforms: Participate in webinars, panel discussions, and online seminars to stay updated on trends

  • Leadership coaching and workshops: Tailored sessions to help alumni scale their careers or business ventures


Why Choose McCombs EMBA?

Choosing the right Executive MBA (EMBA) program is a critical decision in the trajectory of your career. With numerous high-caliber options available, selecting a program that aligns with your professional goals, leadership style, and personal aspirations is essential. The McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) stands out as a world-class option for experienced professionals who seek to accelerate their careers, expand their global perspective, and sharpen their leadership skills.

Here’s why McCombs should be at the top of your list when considering an Executive MBA:


1. Prestigious Reputation and Academic Excellence

McCombs is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world, with its Executive MBA program receiving accolades for its exceptional academic rigor, innovative teaching methods, and world-renowned faculty. With a degree from McCombs, you benefit from a degree that is recognized globally, symbolizing a high level of excellence and expertise.


2. Tailored Curriculum for Senior Executives

Unlike traditional MBA programs, which focus on providing broad-based business knowledge to early-career professionals, McCombs’ EMBA is designed for executives and senior managers who are already well-versed in business operations. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, strategic thinking, and global business insights, equipping students to make high-level decisions in dynamic environments.


3. Flexible Format for Busy Professionals

McCombs understands that executives have demanding careers, which is why the EMBA program is designed with flexibility in mind. The program is structured with bi-weekly weekend classes, minimizing disruption to your professional life. This enables you to continue working full-time while pursuing your degree. Additionally, the global immersion experiences and executive coaching are integrated into the program in a way that accommodates the busy schedules of working professionals.


4. Global Perspective Through Immersions and Cross-Border Learning

The McCombs EMBA program provides students with rich global exposure through its international immersions in major business hubs around the world. Whether it’s navigating the business landscape of Asia, Europe, or Latin America, students gain invaluable insights into global markets. The global exposure fosters cross-cultural understanding, prepares students for international leadership roles, and helps them build a truly global network.


5. Lifelong Access to a Strong Alumni Network

McCombs’ alumni network is a key differentiator. The 20,000+ alumni spread across over 100 countries represent a wide range of industries, offering extensive opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and career advancement. As an EMBA graduate, you’ll have access to a supportive, dynamic alumni community that will continue to help you as you move through various stages of your career.


6. Focus on Leadership Development

The McCombs EMBA is not just about acquiring technical business knowledge—it’s about transforming you into a leader who can influence, inspire, and lead teams effectively. The program includes leadership labs, executive coaching, and a range of activities designed to enhance your strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and interpersonal effectiveness. McCombs’ emphasis on self-awareness and ethical leadership ensures that you graduate not only as a strong executive but also as a conscientious and capable leader.


7. Access to Cutting-Edge Resources and Facilities

McCombs offers access to some of the most innovative business resources, including Texas Venture Labs, the Herb Kelleher Center for Entrepreneurship, and various research centers that focus on cutting-edge topics like data analytics, sustainability, and innovation. These resources are available to EMBA students to foster entrepreneurial thinking and provide the tools necessary to drive change and create value in any business context.


8. High ROI on Investment

The McCombs EMBA program provides an exceptional return on investment (ROI). With a rigorous curriculum, access to world-class faculty and industry experts, and an invaluable global network, the McCombs EMBA positions you to accelerate your career. Graduates typically see significant salary increases, job promotions, and new career opportunities after earning their degree.


9. Personalized Career Support

McCombs’ career development resources are tailored specifically to the needs of senior executives. Whether you’re looking to advance within your current company, transition to a new industry, or start your own business, the Executive Career Services team provides personalized coaching, job placement support, and networking opportunities. With McCombs, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re gaining access to a personalized, executive-level career support system.


10. Impactful Learning Environment

McCombs fosters a collaborative, dynamic learning environment where students engage in rigorous discussions, share their expertise, and challenge each other to think critically. The faculty, who are leaders in their respective fields, bring real-world insights to the classroom, ensuring that students leave with practical skills they can apply immediately in their professional roles. This is further complemented by the program’s diverse student body, which includes leaders from a wide range of industries and regions, enriching the learning experience.


Conclusion: A Program Designed for Senior Executives

The McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) program is designed for senior executives and experienced professionals who are ready to take the next step in their careers. With a focus on leadership development, global exposure, and career support, McCombs provides an unmatched platform for transformational growth. The program is an investment not just in your career, but in your leadership journey—a journey that will shape you into a strategic, global, and purpose-driven leader.

If you’re ready to elevate your leadership potential, expand your global business acumen, and join a powerful network of accomplished professionals, the McCombs EMBA is the ideal choice.


FAQs

  1. What is the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The McCombs Executive MBA (EMBA) program is a global leadership-focused business degree designed for senior executives with significant work experience. It combines advanced academic knowledge with practical leadership skills, preparing executives for global business challenges.


  2. How long is the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The McCombs EMBA program typically takes 21 months to complete. Classes are held every other weekend to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.


  3. What is the format of the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The program combines in-person weekend classes, global immersions, and executive coaching, allowing students to maintain their full-time employment while pursuing their degree.


  4. What is the average class size of the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The McCombs EMBA cohort is typically composed of 45-60 students, fostering a personalized and collaborative learning environment.


  5. What is the cost of the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The cost for the McCombs EMBA program is approximately $135,000, which includes tuition, fees, and study materials.


  6. Is financial aid available for the McCombs EMBA program?

    • Yes, McCombs offers financial aid options, including student loans, payment plans, and scholarships. Financial aid counselors are available to guide students through the application process.


  7. What are the admission requirements for the McCombs EMBA program?

    • Applicants to the McCombs EMBA program should have a minimum of 8 years of professional experience, a strong academic background, and leadership potential. The program also requires GMAT/GRE scores, unless waived based on professional experience.


  8. Are there international study trips in the McCombs EMBA program?

    • Yes, the McCombs EMBA program includes international immersions to global business hubs, offering hands-on experiences and exposure to international markets.


  9. Can I continue working while pursuing the McCombs EMBA?

    • Yes, the McCombs EMBA is designed for working professionals. The program’s weekend format allows students to balance their studies with their professional commitments.


  10. What is the curriculum structure of the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The curriculum consists of core courses, global immersion modules, and elective courses. The program focuses on leadership, strategy, and global business.


  11. What kind of networking opportunities are available in the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The program provides access to McCombs’ global alumni network, industry events, and professional development opportunities that facilitate valuable connections.


  12. Can I pursue the McCombs EMBA if I am not based in the U.S.?

    • Yes, the McCombs EMBA program is open to international applicants and offers global exposure through international immersions and a diverse student body.


  13. What are the career services available for McCombs EMBA students?

    • McCombs provides personalized career coaching, access to the McCombs alumni network, and exclusive job postings through McCombsConnect.


  14. How are the professors in the McCombs EMBA program?

    • Professors at McCombs are highly regarded scholars and industry experts who bring real-world experience into the classroom, providing students with valuable insights into current business practices.


  15. What makes McCombs EMBA different from other EMBA programs?

    • McCombs stands out due to its personalized attention, flexible weekend format, global immersion experiences, and the strong alumni network that continues to support students long after graduation.


  16. Is there an option for part-time study in the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The McCombs EMBA program is designed for full-time working professionals, and the weekend format allows students to balance their studies with their professional careers. Part-time study is not available.


  17. Do McCombs EMBA graduates receive an MBA degree?

    • Yes, graduates of the McCombs Executive MBA program receive a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Texas at Austin.


  18. How does the McCombs EMBA program help develop leadership skills?

    • The program includes leadership labs, executive coaching, and leadership-focused coursework, which equip students with the skills needed to lead teams and organizations effectively.


  19. What are the job prospects after completing the McCombs EMBA?

    • McCombs EMBA graduates typically experience career advancement and access to leadership positions. The program’s global focus also opens doors for international opportunities.


  20. What is the application deadline for the McCombs EMBA program?

    • The McCombs EMBA program has a rolling admissions process, with applications typically due in early spring for the following academic year. It’s recommended to apply early to secure a spot.

Comments


bottom of page