Executive MBA

Frequently Asked Questions

Core course develop management skills – the ability to understand the functional aspects of your business, to synthesize a holistic viewpoint, and to think strategically across all areas with an executive’s perspective.

Non-core (or elective) courses are selected by the program leadership and provide an opportunity to focus on the latest subjects and topics relevant to both personal growth and business success.

Everyone has packed their bags with unique industry and personal experiences as they set off on their own educational journey. Students often remark about the applicability of their recent learnings as they relate to immediate decision making or just understanding the various dimensions of a high level strategic discussion.

On average, students should expect to spend between 10-15 hours per week when not attending the on-campus class sessions. The time spent prepares students to be fully engaged during the on-campus class sessions and includes, for example, reading assigned materials, analyzing a case and preparing case write-ups, completing written assignments, working in teams, etc. The workload is designed to accommodate the busy professional seeking a high-quality, impactful educational experience while developing and nurturing his or her leadership potential.

We understand that life can throw us curves. Notification to our Academic Director or program coordinator will ensure all faculty and appropriate parties are informed to help you maintain continuity within the program.

This is an on-campus program but you are only on campus for 3 days a month - typically Thursday - Saturday. Many of our students find this more flexible than a part-time or online program. 

We’d be happy to provide you with a letter of intent that outlines the benefits of getting an EMBA. 

In order to be considered for the Executive MBA program, you must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. In addition, our students typically have at least 10 years of professional work experience. No test scores are required. 

Due to the Executive MBA program being considered part-time, international applicants must have one of the following to attend the Executive MBA program:

• Current H1-B Visa (you must continue to work throughout the program to maintain this status)
• Permanent US Residency
• Temporary Protected Status

Please be aware, there are additional admission requirements for international students please visit https://fisher.osu.edu/graduate/international-applicants for more information. 

• Personal resume
• College transcripts
• Essay question
• Letter of recommendation
• Employer sponsor letter
• Interview
• Online application

You are given the option to waive this requirement if you have the minimum 10 years of professional work experience, or a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. 

If you are an international applicant, please visit https://fisher.osu.edu/graduate/international-applicants for more information on transcripts and testing. 

No, the EMBA program is cohort-based and all classes are taken together.

No, students are not required to be employed during the program.

​​​​​​No, but if you’re not from Central Ohio, it is recommended that you stay at The Blackwell Inn due to the proximity to the classroom.

• The program fees of $115,000 generally cover expenses for the mandatory orientation, program instruction, course materials, intellectual and social events, domestic educational trip (other than airfare), international educational trip (other than visa application fee and airfare), logistics expenses while on-campus, meals, and fees to The Ohio State University.
• Upon acceptance into the Fisher Executive MBA Program, a non-refundable $1,500 deposit is required to guarantee your spot in the program. The $1,500 deposit shows up as a credit against the remaining program fees.

The Return on Investment of an Executive MBA

Deciding to pursue your Executive MBA should not be taken lightly. In addition to the financial undertaking, we understand that your time on campus and time spent on homework is time taken away from your family, friends and professional duties. Many prospective students ask about the direct return on investment for a program such as the Fisher Executive MBA. A 2018 study by The Executive MBA Council, a non profit associate of universities and colleges (including Ohio State), showed EMBA graduates saw an increase in their skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making, which resulted in an increase in compensation and responsibilities. 

In addition, a 2016 study by the Graduate Management Admission Council found that alumni of Executive MBA programs are the most likely of all graduate business school graduates to recommend their experience to others. Their analysis showed that it took graduates an average of 2.5 years to recoup the investment, a year quicker than traditional two-year programs. 

Unfortunately, scholarships are not available for this program. However, many of our students get some financial support from their company. Visit our page on tips when speaking with your employer. Also, below you will see data regarding the ROI for an Executive MBA.

The Return on Investment of an Executive MBA

Deciding to pursue your Executive MBA should not be taken lightly. In addition to the financial undertaking, we understand that your time on campus and time spent on homework is time taken away from your family, friends and professional duties. Many prospective students ask about the direct return on investment for a program such as the Fisher Executive MBA. A 2018 study by The Executive MBA Council, a non profit associate of universities and colleges (including Ohio State), showed EMBA graduates saw an increase in their skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making, which resulted in an increase in compensation and responsibilities. 

In addition, a 2016 study by the Graduate Management Admission Council found that alumni of Executive MBA programs are the most likely of all graduate business school graduates to recommend their experience to others. Their analysis showed that it took graduates an average of 2.5 years to recoup the investment, a year quicker than traditional two-year programs. 

​​​​​​We offer rolling admissions, but to start this December, you must submit an application by October 31, or until the class is full.

Deciding to pursue your Executive MBA should not be taken lightly. In addition to the financial undertaking, we understand that your time on campus and time spent on homework is time taken away from your family, friends and professional duties. Many prospective students ask about the direct return on investment for a program such as the Fisher Executive MBA. A 2018 study by The Executive MBA Council, a non profit associate of universities and colleges (including Ohio State), showed EMBA graduates saw an increase in their skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making, which resulted in an increase in compensation and responsibilities. 

In addition, a 2016 study by the Graduate Management Admission Council found that alumni of Executive MBA programs are the most likely of all graduate business school graduates to recommend their experience to others. Their analysis showed that it took graduates an average of 2.5 years to recoup the investment, a year quicker than traditional two-year programs.