Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CU Executive MBA Program?

The Executive MBA is an accredited master's degree in Business Administration designed for the experienced business person or professional. Executive MBA students complete their degree in less than two years with minimal career disruption. In that period they gain a wide range of new skills and sharpen their analytical abilities by applying the techniques and tools learned in classes to problems and situations they face at work.

What's unique about the Executive MBA Program besides the schedule?

"It's the 'executive' elements in the program that make it special - top-notch faculty, the ability to complete the degree in two years while working full time, and the executive talents of your classmates.'" - Mary Ann Brody Regional Marketing Director, Wendy's International, Inc. Executive MBA Class of 1997 "I learned the value of working collaboratively in a small study group. As the manager of rocket production for my corporation I implemented the small group model where we exchanged ideas on how to streamline the production process. The results were spectacular. We saw a 30 percent reduction in the time span to build a rocket." - Laryssa Sharvan-Densmore Site Director, Lockheed Martin Corporation Stennis Space Center, Mississippi Space & Technology Center Executive MBA Class of 2000 "To me, what separates this program from other executive MBA programs is the quality of individuals that enroll. I learned a great deal from them and hopefully imparted a little of my own experience and knowledge to them. I believe I made friends for life." - Pat G. D'Esposito, Jr. Commercial Black Belt, GE Network Solutions Executive MBA Class of 2002 "High-caliber participants, top-notch faculty, and a great facility and staff make the CU Executive MBA Program an unbeatable combination. It will be one of the most rigorous, challenging, and yet satisfying endeavors of your life." - Craig Meis, Vice President, CFO Vail Capital Partners Executive MBA, Class of 2000 "The CU Executive MBA Program has made a tremendous difference in my career. Not only is the program exceptional, but the opportunity to network with other professionals provides a depth and insight that would be hard to come by in any other setting." - Linda Pratt Associate Chief Scientist for Operations, Geologic Hazard Team, United States Geological Survey Executive MBA Class of 2000 "On entering the program I knew that I would gain great value from the financial analysis and accounting classes. One big surprise though was the great practical benefits I obtained from other courses. Halfway through this class, I basically recovered the financial investment in the program by applying a few key marketing principles at my company." - Everod (Eveready) Samuel President, Samuel Engineering Inc. Executive MBA Class of 2002 "CU's Executive MBA Program has given me new insights and understanding of issues facing business at the local, national, and international level. The program has transformed the way I think." - Gary P. Trujillo Technical Support Manager, Agilent Technologies Executive MBA Class of 1998 "The most valuable aspect of the program was the confidence it gave me in the leadership of my division. It was great to work with and learn from professors who are active in the 'real world' and well respected across the world." - Tina J. Valdez Vice President Operations, TeleTech "The EMBA program offered me a timely and excellent knowledge base that empowers me to be successful in a corporate environment as well as in entrepreneurship. Knowledge is power! The EMBA program is definitely worth the time and investment." - Eve Zhou President, Power Marketing Executive MBA Class of 2001 More

One important advantage is the close interaction with both faculty and fellow students. Students remain with one group of classmates throughout the program, providing invaluable continuity and mutual support.

The curriculum is distinct from that of a traditional MBA, which emphasizes knowledge a practitioner needs; our program focuses on what decision makers need to know. The Executive MBA Program combines academic learning with real-world experience, producing a challenging, stimulating learning environment that provides the maximum return for the time and money invested in it.

The Executive MBA Program requires a significant time commitment. You should expect to spend an average of 20 hours on schoolwork—in addition to one day of class—per week. Time spent outside of class varies depending on the term, class assignments, and background knowledge.

Who teaches in the Executive MBA Program?

Faculty are chosen from nearly 200 full-time faculty in CU's three AACSB-accredited Graduate Schools of Business: Colorado Springs, Denver, and the Leeds School of Business in Boulder. All faculty in the program have earned doctorate-level degrees and have experience working, teaching, and consulting with businesses.

Who is eligible for admission?

A very diverse group of people earn an Executive MBA. What they share is a sincere desire to succeed in business by obtaining an MBA and a willingness to work hard toward achieving that goal.

Participants typically have eight to ten years of business or professional experience. Program participants represent all types of organizations from major corporations to small entrepreneurial ventures. Both the private and public sectors are represented, as well as individuals with careers in professions such as medicine, engineering, science, or law. A four-year baccalaureate degree is required, though it need not be a degree in business.

How much computer experience do I need?

Personal computers are used as a tool to aid learning in the Executive MBA Program. You should be comfortable using word processing and spreadsheet software. Instruction on the use of class-related software will be provided during the program. Program staff can provide suggestions for introductory computer classes to improve skills before starting the program. Participants are required to have their own personal computer and modem for use in the program.

Why is the tuition higher than that for a traditional MBA?

CU's Executive MBA is designed for the working professional; as such, the university provides a premium level of service in terms of faculty, facilities, and support staff. The cost is modest in comparison to the quality and the benefits the program yields an investment in learning and an investment in a person's career and future.

The CU Executive MBA Program is a self-supporting academic program that receives NO state tax dollars to subsidize tuition. All costs associated with the program are covered directly through tuition payments.

Do I receive an Executive MBA or an MBA degree?

Upon graduation, you will earn an accredited MBA degree, the recognized standard in management education and a key to success in the business world.

How do participants pay for the Executive MBA Program? Is there financial aid available?

Approximately fifty percent of participants receive full tuition support from their employers. Twenty-five percent receive partial support from their employers for tuition. The remaining participants pay their own tuition. CU Executive MBA students are eligible for a deferred payment program that allows participants to defer half of a term's tuition until the completion of the term; interest is charged on the unpaid balance. This assists participants who are reimbursed by their employer after a course is completed. Non-need-based student loans are currently available for up to 70 percent of the tuition. Some need-based loans are available. The Executive MBA also has a scholarship program that targets students accepted into the program who qualify for need-based financial aid. Please contact the Program Office for additional details regarding financial aid.

Is it difficult to return to school after being out of school for so many years?

The time demands of the program require all participants to make adjustments in their lives. Typically, most Executive MBA participants have been out of school for 10 to 15 years; therefore, all members of the class face similar challenges. The student study groups play a critical role of support during the program. The Executive MBA is designed to allow students to concentrate their time on academic matters while program staff take care of the administrative aspects of attending a university.

Can I discuss the program with someone before I apply?

You are encouraged to contact the Program Director prior to starting the application process. Program staff are available to answer questions and discuss the program. Please phone the Program Office at (303) 623-1888 or (800) 228-5778.

An understanding of algebra-level mathematics is required. Individuals with a limited knowledge of mathematics are encouraged to take a college-prep math class prior to starting the program. Please contact the program staff for several suggestions on ways to improve math skills before starting the program.

Are there any prerequisites for the Executive MBA Program?

Participants need to have earned a baccalaureate degree; however, the degree need not be in business. Participants should feel comfortable with word processing and spreadsheet functions on their computer and have an understanding of algebra-level mathematics.

Should I take the GMAT? What is an acceptable score?

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is strongly recommended for applicants whose undergraduate grade point average was below 3.0 or applicants with less than four years in a responsible management position. A score on the GMAT in the upper 500s to lower 600s is typical for an Executive MBA student. Executive MBA applicants need to receive a score of at least 500.

How will an MBA degree affect my career?

An MBA serves as recognition that you have attained a high level of knowledge about a wide range of topics considered essential in modern management. As such, it marks you as a person who was willing to invest the time and effort needed to gain the degree, and as someone who is prepared to accept and meet all the challenges the business world has to offer. It says that you not only want to succeed, but that you've been tested and are capable of success.

For more information:
Phone: 303-623-1888 or 800-228-5778
Fax: 303-623-6228
info@cuemba.org