Executive MBA programs are specifically designed for experienced business professionals who are on their way to becoming top executives, senior managers and leaders within in their companies or leaders who are starting their own companies. While traditional MBA programs give those with minimal to average work experience a boost when it comes to competing for promotions and specializing in an area within the industry, executive MBA candidates aim to take their businesses in a new direction and are looking for the training that will prepare them to think with a global perspective, analyze all types of a business, and become capable, responsible, ethical leaders of all kinds of people. If you are a manager in your company and have years of experience working in the business world, you may want to consider enrolling in an Executive MBA program to increase your salary potential and learn the leadership skills you need to become a forward thinking, innovative executive. These programs also give students access to valuable alumni networks, as well as networking opportunities with other students, faculty members and more.

Online EMBA programs offer busy business managers the chance to advance their careers even while balancing hectic work schedules and personal time. Before investing your extra time and money into an EMBA program, however, you will need to research online accreditation, the accreditation of the school’s campus-based programs, student-faculty ratio, graduation and retention rate, specializations offered and more. Researching a school’s accreditation is important because of the rise of illegal diploma mills, which can undermine the reputation of online programs and cost you a lot of wasted time and money. Just as if you were going to attend a traditional, campus-based program, take a look at the the top Executive MBA schools and programs, as well as your chances of being accepted to one of the top schools.

Pace University’s online Executive MBA program allows very busy professionals who don’t have the time to commute to campus the opportunity to earn their graduate degree anyway. This New York City-based school does, however, require that online students complete several residency programs, including an orientation program, on campus. Besides being a well-respected university, Pace also allows professionals to swap work experience for credit, and candidates for admission do not have to take the GMAT. Top faculty members are responsible for leading EMBA cohorts and interact with students online throughout the program.

Colorado Technical University’s online school Colorado Tech Online, offers professionals a flexible option for earning their Executive MBA. The school is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, and the EMBA program includes three professional certificates: Business Administration, Business Management, and Change Management. All students earn these certificates in addition to their EMBA. The program lasts just 15 months, putting professionals on an even faster track to becoming a top executive. Colorado Technical University has also been well-ranked by the Online Education Database.

Admission to EMBA programs is very competitive, and the top schools have designed strict, selective guidelines for evaluating applicants. Students must submit their undergraduate degree and transcript, and most schools require that students majored in a business-related field. Work experience is also vital, and professionals who want to earn an EMBA should already have management experience and need to be able to display their dedication to becoming a well-educated, responsible leader in business. Not all schools require their program candidates to take the GMAT, but be sure to check with your top Executive MBA program requirements before applying.