Executive Programs FAQ

RIT's Saunders College of Business offers an AACSB-accredited executive MBA program designed for experienced professionals seeking a rigorous holistic business curriculum. The program is offered in two formats:

1. On-Campus (Hybrid) EMBA: A 16-month program that combines in-person, on-campus classes with live virtual sessions.
2. Online EMBA: A 16-month program that is delivered 100% online, with the exception of two required in-person trips.

Who is the ideal candidate for the EMBA program?

The program is designed for established professionals and emerging leaders who want to accelerate their careers. It is ideal for individuals with an established career path who are seeking to advance into managerial and executive roles, change industries, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures. 

What is the curriculum's focus?

The curriculum is designed to build executive skills immediately applicable in the workplace. Key areas of focus include:

• Strategic thinking and cross-functional analysis
• Leadership development
• Data-driven analysis and decision-making
• Innovation and technology management
• Financial frameworks and valuation
• A global business perspective

What is the "cohort" model?

Both program formats use a cohort model, where students enter the program at the same time and move through scheduled courses together as a group. This model fosters a strong, collaborative community and builds a lasting professional network.

What is the schedule for the On-Campus (Hybrid) program?

This 16-month program (starting in August) is structured for working professionals.

• Courses are taken two at a time in 6-week blocks.
• On-campus classes meet on Friday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during the first and fifth week of each 6-week block.
• A live virtual session takes place on a Saturday (8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST) during the third week.

What is the schedule for the Online program?

This 16-month program offers two start dates per year: August or January.

• Coursework is completed 100% online.
• Live online sessions are typically scheduled Mondays through Thursdays between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST and are recorded.

Are there any required in-person components for the Online EMBA?

Yes. All online students must attend two in-person events:

1. A 3-day on-campus orientation at the start of the program.
2. A 7-10 day international seminar near the end of the program.

The On-Campus (Hybrid) program also requires the orientation and international seminar.

What is the benefit of this program for my organization?

The program is designed for immediate impact. Employees apply concepts from class directly to real-world challenges within your organization. The curriculum strengthens their leadership, strategic thinking, and data analysis skills, preparing them for greater responsibilities. Notably, 33% of recent RIT executive MBA students have been promoted before they even graduate.

What experiential learning is included?

Both programs feature significant hands-on learning, including:

• International Seminar: A 7-10 day business and cultural trip. Travel and lodging costs are included in the program tuition.
• Capstone Consulting Project: Students work in teams to act as consultants on a real-world project, applying their skills to a strategic business challenge.
• Business Simulation Residency: A multi-day, in-person event where teams compete in a dynamic business simulation (required for Fall-start cohorts).

What are the admission requirements? Do I need to take a test?

Admission is based on a holistic review of your professional experience and academic background.

• Required: A minimum of 6 years of professional work experience, a current resume, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
• Not Required: The GMAT or GRE is not required to apply.

What is the total tuition for the program?

For both formats, the total program tuition is:

• Executive MBA (Hybrid or Online): $78,000
• EMBA with Life Sciences Electives: $81,000

This tuition is billed in four installments over the course of the program.

What is included in the tuition?

The program's tuition is comprehensive and covers:

• All course materials
• Airfare and lodging for the required international seminar
• Lodging and meals for the on-campus orientation and residency
• Access to all RIT services

What financial aid and corporate support options are available?

• For Individuals: All applicants are considered for exclusive EMBA scholarships, such as the Dean's Scholarship and scholarships for non-profit or entrepreneurial leaders.
• For Organizations: RIT offers an Employer Sponsored Tuition Plan (ESTP). Additionally, if your employer offers tuition reimbursement, you may be eligible for RIT's Company Match Scholarship of up to $5,000.

What is the difference between RIT's Executive Education programs and the Executive MBA (EMBA) program?

Executive Education provides shorter, focused certificate programs (like "Data/ AI Readiness" or "Finance for Non-Financial Leaders") and customized training for organizations. The Executive MBA is a comprehensive, full-degree program designed to develop senior-level strategic leaders.

 Can I apply credits from an Executive Education certificate toward my Executive MBA?

Yes, select Executive Education certificate programs, such as the "Executive Fundamentals for Emerging Leaders" program, may be designed as credit-bearing, enabling applicable credits toward the RIT Executive MBA as a pathway from one program to the next.

 Are Executive Education programs offered in the same online/hybrid formats as the EMBA?

Yes, Executive Education programs are flexible and offered in in-person, hybrid, or fully online formats, allowing you to choose the best fit for your professional development needs.

Who are these certificate programs for?

They are designed for driven professionals and organizations seeking to build skills in specific, targeted areas (like leadership, innovation, or data readiness) at the intersection of business and technology, often as a form of continuing professional development separate from a full degree.