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Investing in an Executive MBA (EMBA) is more than just adding a degree to your CV — it's about driving tangible business results and creating long-term value for your organisation. It’s an investment in leadership that will secure the future of your business. The knowledge you gain in class can be instantly applied to your work, giving your business a significant competitive edge.

Once you’ve decided to pursue an Executive MBA, the next challenge is figuring out how to fund your education. For working professionals, securing sponsorship from your employer can help lighten the financial burden while providing immediate value to both you and your organisation. Building a compelling case for employer sponsorship requires a clear demonstration of how the EMBA will directly benefit your company and your personal and professional development.

So, what are the benefits of an EMBA to your employer?

Immediate organisational impact

The Ulster University EMBA is grounded on inquiry-based learning, which aids communication skills, problem-solving skills and helps comprehend complex topics. The emphasis on real-world challenges and practical skills provide opportunities to apply knowledge immediately via applied assessment which drives real, tangible change within your organisation. Students undertake a Management Project in year 2 with students able to demonstrate value potentially far in excess of the course fees to their employers.

Future-proof leadership

The EMBA can help students deliver real impact in areas beyond their usual expertise. Our curriculum has been carefully crafted to mirror the dynamic landscape of modern-day business and entrepreneurship. The EMBA covers contemporary business topics such as corporate governance and boardroom management, digital transformation, sustainability, ethics, compliance and change management equipping leaders with the tools to develop strategies that ensure their company remains competitive and relevant.

Compatible with full-time employment

Our Executive MBA is designed with students in mind. With a carefully crafted timetable, students spend minimal time away from work. The EMBA is taught part-time over 2 years, students attend 12 afternoons/evenings (Tuesdays 1.15pm to 8.05pm) in semesters 1 and 2 of year 1 and two 3-day blocks (9.30-5pm each day) in semester 3. Year 2 consists of 12 afternoons/evenings (Wednesdays 1.15pm to 8.05pm) in semester 1 and 2. During semester 3 of year 2, students complete their Management Project.  This fixed structure allows students to flexibly integrate this programme into their work schedule, ensuring minimal disruption to the business while effectively managing professional commitments.

Expands in-demand transferrable skills

The EMBA focuses on professional and personal development, preparing learners to respond to the challenges of today and the future. With a cross-functional curriculum, this programme sets students on a path to becoming a more strategic, influential and confident leader, with a focus on key such as:

  • Leadership
  • Decision making
  • Strategic thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Communication
  • Relationship building

Expand professional network

EMBA students join a diverse community of like-minded, high-calibre professionals from a variety of professional backgrounds and nationalities. This network exposes employees to different industries, cultures, and ideas and can lead to potential future business opportunities.

Communicate their value in you

Investing in the Executive MBA allows your employer to show you the value and potential they see in you not just now but into the future as a leader of the organisation.

What makes the Ulster University Executive MBA different?

Harvard Business School Affiliation

Ulster University is the first UK University to join a prestigious network of universities affiliated with Harvard Business School. Students benefit from material delivered by our staff (trained at Harvard) in the area of International Competitiveness.

Industry relevance

Our EMBA is taught by leading academics and industry experts who work in collaboration with local and international employers to ensure that the course is relevant and aligned with emerging business needs, providing our students and their businesses with a myriad of immediate connections to change leaders. This can improve corporate reputation, allowing businesses to stay connected and up to date with current affairs.

When seeking support from your employer, align the Executive MBA outcomes with your organisational goals, demonstrating ROI, and highlighting the immediate and long-term benefits.