Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Executive MBA program?
An Executive MBA program meets the educational needs of experienced managers, executives, and other business leaders since it allows these professionals to earn an MBA in two years or less while continuing to work full time. It also allows students to enter the program, complete classes, and graduate with the same integrated group of students.
When does the next Integrated Group begin the Executive MBA program?
The next Integrated Group will start in Fall 2008. Please contact Director Paul Benchener for confirmation about when the next start date is. He can be reached at pbenchener@rider.edu or by phone at 609.895.5528.
What is different about Rider’s Executive MBA program curriculum?
At Rider, our program focuses on leadership skills, practical applications and networking. While leadership skills are applied in all classes, the addition of the skills seminars helps to drive them home through teamwork. The curriculum focuses not only on the theories and principles but also on how to bring those concepts to bear on the real-world issues and challenges executives face every day.
How does an Executive MBA program compare with a typical full-time MBA program at another University?
The most obvious advantage of an Executive MBA program like Rider’s is you do not have to put your career on hold. You can continue working full time while earning your degree and, therefore, you can also apply everything you are learning in class immediately. You do not have to wait until you graduate.
How many students are in each class?
Our program is organized around integrated groups of up to 30 students. Because these groups remain intact throughout the entire program, you are always learning with the same people, which allows you to develop close working relationships with your group members.
Who participates in Executive MBA programs? Will the Integrated Groups include students from different industries?
Rider’s program draws students from a range of industries and occupations. While some students already have degrees in business, many hold technical degrees and come from scientific, engineering and other nonbusiness backgrounds. This kind of diversity exposes you to new and unique ways of approaching and solving problems.
What type of time commitment is involved?
We understand your concerns: committing to an Executive MBA program means balancing work and family responsibilities with a rigorous academic schedule. That is why we have designed our Executive MBA program around a unique structure that enables you to complete the program in less than two years without unduly sacrificing your other responsibilities. Meeting almost every Saturday, you will take two courses in eight sessions. Every session is eight weeks long -- seven classes with an exam or conclusion during the eighth week. Eight skills training sessions will take place on Friday evenings and two Saturdays. Weekly interactive and online assignments supplement the classroom discussions.
Can I afford an Executive MBA program?
The cost of the program is about $55,000. The program cost is all-inclusive - it covers tuition, books, food, fees and the international study experience. You should talk with your company's human resources department to find out if tuition assistance is available. Or, you can contact Rider and we will have a representative arrange a meeting with your company.
When considering the cost, including the time commitment, also consider the payback. A recent study by The Graduate Management Admissions Council found that Executive MBA graduates increased their salary by 21%. In addition, a Business Week article (dated 10/18/04) showed that graduates of MBA programs increased their yearly median salary, bonus and other compensation by an amount about equal to the cost of our Executive MBA program.
Is your Executive MBA program accredited?
Absolutely. In fact, we are one of about 500 schools in the world to receive accreditation by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
For answers to other questions you might have or to learn more, call and speak to one of our graduate admission representatives. The schedule of open houses can also be obtained from the graduate admission's office. You can contact the Rider University Office of Graduate Admission at gradadm@rider.edu or (609) 896-5036.
