Prerequisites
To be considered for admission to the CU Executive MBA Program, applicants must meet the following prerequisites:
Baccalaureate Degree.
The degree need not be in business, but must be from an accredited institution recognized by the University of Colorado. Candidates must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher; if a candidate does not have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0, the GMAT may be required (please see GMAT section below). Candidates who already hold a masters or doctoral-level degree do not need to sit for the GMAT.
Mathematics.
An understanding of algebra-level mathematics is required. Individuals with limited understanding of mathematics are encouraged to take a college-prep math course prior to starting the program.*
Computer Requirements.
Computers are used extensively as a learning tool in the program. Participants should be able to do word processing and spreadsheets on the PC. Instruction on the use of class-related software is provided during the program.
Participants are required to have their own personal computers for use in the program. As a participant in the Executive MBA (EMBA) program, you will need to own and be able to run on your computer a current version of Microsoft Office (Office XP or newer).
All students enrolled in the Executive MBA need to have access to a computer with a Windows®-based operating system. Mac®-based software is not available to students through the Executive MBA program.
As an EMBA participant, you will be required to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations using MS Office software. To ensure your success in the EMBA, you need to enter the program with an intermediate level of understanding in the use of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
In order to facilitate sharing of work among students and faculty, the EMBA program requires that you have a current release of Microsoft Office (Office XP or newer) including:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
The above hardware and software are not provided by the program and are not included in the program tuition.
Internet Access
For the Executive MBA program you will need an Internet Service Provider (ISP) for an e-mail account and access to the WorldWideWeb. The CU Executive MBA Center has wireless lnternet access available.
GMAT.
The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is not required for all applicants. However, the GMAT is usually required for candidates with an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) below 3.0. The GMAT is strongly recommended for individuals with less than 10 years in a decision-making position. The submission of a GMAT score is required for candidates who hold only an undergraduate degree from a non-US university in which the classes are not taught in English. Please contact the program director if you have questions about the requirement to submit a GMAT score as part of your application to the Executive MBA.
The GMAT is not required for applicants whose undergraduate GPA was 3.0 or higher and who meet the professional work experience requirements of the Executive MBA. The GMAT is not required for applicants who already hold a masters degree or higher and who meet the professional work experience requirements of the Executive MBA.
Applicants should have their GMAT scores sent directly to the Executive MBA program by using code 11S-Z2-29 on the GMAT application form. A GMAT score in the upper 500s to lower 600s is typical for Executive MBA participants. EMBA applicants need to receive a minimum score of 500 on the GMAT. Download GMAT preparation information.
*Contact program staff for suggested ways to meet this requirement before starting the program.




