UAH launches Executive MBA program

February 5, 2025 - HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) College of Business will expand its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program offerings by launching an Executive MBA (EMBA) - an accelerated program developed for professionals who intend to serve their organizations at the executive level. UAH is a part of The University of Alabama System.

Through the 16-month cohort-based program, professionals can expect to expand their executive-level professional network, engage in relevant business coursework, increase their knowledge of effective leadership practices and immerse themselves in innovative business practices as they learn from experts in the business field. The first UAH Executive MBA cohort will begin in August 2026.

This new program builds upon UAH's original MBA program offering, the Professional MBA, to cater to mid- to senior-level professionals who aspire to be executive leaders. The Executive MBA program will equip professionals with the strategic tools and insights needed to drive organizational success at the highest level.

"Senior executives occupy positions that require strong leadership skills, as well as a solid understanding of the breadth of business areas. Organizational success often hinges on the effectiveness of these leaders." says Dr. Jason T. Greene, dean of the UAH College of Business.

"The EMBA offers a comprehensive theory-to-application-based learning experience designed specifically for those who will be senior leaders in their organizations. This program places special emphasis on leadership of highly technical organizations, like those so important to the Huntsville community, this state and the nation. We are incredibly excited to see our new EMBA program come to fruition as we continue our commitment to serve the needs of our community."

The Executive MBA program offers a unique format designed with working professionals in mind, allowing busy professionals to balance their career responsibilities while earning their degree in 16 months. Professionals accepted into the program can expect to spend time on UAH's campus once a month on Friday and Saturday as they learn from seasoned executives in the business field and from distinguished faculty members. These monthly residencies are supplemented by online content to accommodate busy schedules.

Another unique element of this program is the opportunity for EMBA cohort members to travel to centers of business excellence to network with and learn from industry business leaders. The travel component was designed to enhance the learning experience by exposing participants to innovative business practices that they can bring to their own organizations.

"To succeed as a community, state and nation, we must cultivate a pipeline of strong leaders capable of not only navigating complex technical requirements but who also understand the critical role of leadership in driving positive outcomes," says retired Lt. Gen. Dr. L. Neil Thurgood, EMBA planning committee member. "The EMBA curriculum was strategically developed to provide a pathway for experienced executives to transition into senior leadership roles and to empower those already in these positions to excel. The curriculum is designed to strengthen critical thinking, decision-making and adaptability, resulting in resilient leaders equipped to tackle challenges and thrive in a dynamic business landscape."

Applications for the Executive MBA program will open in August 2025. Before applying, candidates are welcome to schedule a meeting with the college's Graduate Advisor. To learn more about the UAH Executive MBA and other graduate programs, click here.