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VCU has played an important role in shaping my professional journey. I’m grateful for the practical learning, faculty support and strong community that continue to guide my career.
Transformative leadership begins here — one weekend at a time
The VCU Executive M.B.A. is built for experienced professionals ready to lead with vision, influence strategy and transform their organizations from within.
The program centers on transformative leadership. Students learn to lead with intention, foster belonging and create impact that extends beyond their own organizations and into their communities.
Stepping into more responsibility. Shaping strategy at a higher level. Advancing your career. Whatever stage you’re at, this program gives you the skills, perspective and confidence to lead transformative change, without putting your career on hold.
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No. 26 Executive MBA program in the U.S. |
Among the top 6% of business schools worldwide |
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Program Overview
This program is designed for experienced professionals. Applicants must have at least five years of professional work experience, and on average, students bring 14 years of experience to the classroom.
It is well-suited for those ready to step into higher leadership roles, broaden their perspective and sharpen their strategic decision-making.
Whether you are leading teams, managing divisions or preparing for senior leadership, the Executive M.B.A. provides the tools and insights to help you succeed.
Program Length
20 months
(including 3-month summer break)
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree
5+ years work experience
Average Class Size
20–25 students
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Application Deadlines
Round 1: Nov. 1
Round 2: March 1
Round 3: May 1
Round 4: July 1
Explore the program
Watch two short videos to learn how VCU's Executive M.B.A. combines leadership development, collaborative learning and global business experiences to prepare professionals for what's next.
Hear from Faculty Director Chris Reina, Ph.D., about the program's people-centered approach to leadership, close-knit cohort model and opportunities to apply classroom learning to real-world challenges.
Student snapshot
VCU Executive M.B.A. students are high-caliber managers, executives and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds and industries.
- Rising professionals averaging 14 years of work experience, with a minimum of 5 years of experience
- Employees who want to manage instead of practice
- Entrepreneurs who want to increase their success
- Managers in competitive industries who can't afford to drop out of the workforce while pursuing higher education
Because I was actively completing my M.B.A. during a transitional period at work, I was considered for and ultimately promoted to a management role. The things I learned and brushed up on in the E.M.B.A. program were very helpful in advancing into a more senior role within my existing company. I would recommend VCU to anyone looking for a 'real world M.B.A. experience.'
My role in IT management has changed as a result of my M.B.A. I am now much better equipped to participate in strategic business discussions. I can better understand and translate business goals for my IT teams so they align on impact.
I was able to build a new department within the company focused solely on market and operations growth. The E.M.B.A. helped me focus my efforts and goals in a whole new direction for myself and the company.
Professional development
No matter your goal — whether it’s leading high-performing teams, shaping organizational strategy or taking your leadership to the next level — the VCU Executive M.B.A. equips you with the skills, experience and confidence to drive meaningful change.
Our alumni hold leadership roles across industries, serving as executives, directors, senior managers and business strategists in sectors including healthcare, finance, government, logistics and technology. They lead with vision, influence key decisions and transform organizations from within.
Career outlook
The VCU E.M.B.A. prepares executives to seize opportunities in RVA or wherever their careers take them. With management roles projected to grow 5% by 2032 (BLS), now is the time to invest in your future.
Career services
As both a student and an alum, you'll have access to VCU Business Career Services resources, including personalized career coaching, exclusive job postings and specialized employer events.
Alumni outcomes
The latest VCU E.M.B.A. Alumni Outcomes Study shows how graduates continue to advance their careers, with highlights including career mobility, promotions, salary growth and job satisfaction.
Program Calendar
The Executive M.B.A. can be completed in 20 months, including 17 months of coursework and a 3-month summer break. Classes are held two weekends each month.
Weekend
Format
Attendance Requirement
Friday
Saturday
First Class Weekend of Month
Format
In Person
Attendance Requirement
Required on campus
Friday
10:00 a.m.–6:15 p.m.
Saturday
8:00 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
Second Class Weekend of Month
Format
HyFlex
Attendance Requirement
Attend in person or live online
Friday
2:30 p.m.–6:15 p.m.
Saturday
8:00 a.m.–2:15 p.m.
Curriculum Highlights
Real-world experience from day one
Each semester, cross-functional student teams complete real consulting projects that culminate in the capstone strategic dilemma project. Near the end of your first year, you’ll embark on an international business trip to gain a first-hand understanding of international business practices.
Expert instruction from industry leaders
Learn from experienced practitioners and VCU faculty who blend academic rigor with real-world application.
Designed for all industry backgrounds
Whether you are looking to sharpen your skills or make a career change, our program meets you where you are and helps you reach your goals.
The VCU E.M.B.A. not only equips you to lead with confidence, but also helps you strengthen teamwork, communication and analytical skills, empowering you to make an impact in your organization.
Cohort-based, in-person learning
Build lasting connections in a collaborative, in-person format that mirrors real world project teams.
Executive coaching and support throughout
From professional development courses to personalized coaching, you’ll be equipped with the soft skills that drive success.
Curriculum focus and skills you will gain
- Team building and project management
- Leadership and communication skills
- Analytical tools
- Decision-making frameworks
- Global business challenges
- Organizational culture
- Productivity and supply chain foundations
- Innovation tools and design thinking
- Strategic management
- AI fundamentals, ethics and use cases
Curriculum enrichment opportunities
- Health care management concentration: Enroll in optional add-on during the summer semester.
- Consulting projects: Help solve problems for real-world companies.
- Career services: Use our free services to boost your career.
The E.M.B.A. has been enriching, challenging and rewarding. I’ve met talented classmates, expert professors, impressive guest speakers and dedicated staff. I’ve enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to give up my summer break to pursue the optional concentration in healthcare management."
— MARK HICKMAN, E.M.B.A. '26
Sr. Director of State Government Relations, VCU Health
Tuition and aid
The comprehensive cost of the Executive M.B.A. Program is $69,000. This rate covers:
- Tuition and university fees
- Course materials and software
- Simulations and assessments
- Parking and meals on class weekends
- A domestic trip to NY or DC
- International trip (airfare and hotel)
- Social and networking events
An AACSB-accredited Executive M.B.A. at a competitive cost
VCU’s E.M.B.A. is AACSB-accredited, a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide. The program delivers this level of academic excellence at a competitive cost, lower than other local and regional Executive M.B.A. programs.
You'll be connected to Richmond’s vibrant business community — giving you access to real-world projects, networking opportunities and lasting professional growth.
Financial support
We recommend several financial support options to help students fund their education.
VCU Alumni Referral Award
Receive a $3,000 award for eligible students referred by a VCU alumnus.
Financial aid
The Office of Financial Aid at VCU can connect you with federal, state, university and private resources to help make graduate education more affordable. Traditional financial aid is available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate students may borrow up to $20,500 per academic year through federal unsubsidized loans.
- Apply via FAFSA
- VCU Student Financial Services (billing and payment information)
Installment payment plans
Eligible students may divide their semester balance into four interest-free payments (available for fall and spring semesters).
Military support
VCU’s Military Student Services helps veterans, active duty service members, spouses and dependents transition from service to academics — offering counseling, GI Bill® guidance and connection to resources.
Employer sponsorships
Many students secure partial or full sponsorship from their employers to help finance their studies.
Events
Want to learn more about the E.M.B.A. Program?
Join us for one of our monthly information sessions or alumni panel webinars to hear directly from faculty, staff and alumni. These events are a great way to explore the program, ask questions and see if the VCU E.M.B.A. Program is the right fit for you.
Gathering events. One moment.
Contact us
We're happy to help you explore whether the program is the right fit for your goals. There are several ways to connect with us — choose the option that works best for you.
Want to learn more?
Complete our inquiry form, and a member of our team will contact you with more information about the program.
Prefer a conversation?
Schedule a one-on-one meeting for personalized guidance and answers to your questions. You can also find our direct contact information below.
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VCU School of Business Graduate Studies |
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