Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to have an undergraduate degree in business to enter the Executive MBA program?

An undergraduate degree in business is a distinct advantage; however an undergraduate degree in business is not required. While many participants have vast educational backgrounds in business, some of the participants entering the Executive MBA program have educational background in other areas.

Pre-program tutorials in accounting, math, statistics and economics will be offered before the program begins.

What computer skills should participants have upon entering the program?

Executive MBA participants need to be proficient in word processing, power point presentation and spreadsheet applications. All participants are expected to have a personal computer that will run office software application, which includes an internet access. Internet access is provided on University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa campus via a wireless connection (PCs and software are not provided by the program). Personal laptop computers are recommended for Residence Weekend and may be used during class sessions as well.

What is the Residence Weekend and is it mandatory to attend?

The Executive MBA program starts with an intensive four-day residential session consisting of day and evening classes. All Executive MBA participants are required to attend the Residence Weekend, which enhances class cohesion and identity. To help participants focus on the initial course work, this intensive weekend is held at an off-campus location.

Residence Weekend is structured around a variety of critical management issues facing executives today. Through the study and analysis of these issues the business core curriculum is introduced. Residence Weekend includes the beginning sessions of the first semester courses. The long weekend is organized around a central theme and culminates in a conference format with the Executive MBA alumni group joining the class for activities on the last day.

What is the class schedule and where will the classes be held?

After the Residence Weekend, classes are held every Tuesday evening from 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. and all day on alternating Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. On Tuesday evening, a light dinner will be offered from 5:30-6:00 p.m. On Saturday, a light breakfast will be offered from 7:30 - 8:00 a.m. and lunch will be offered from 12:00 - 1:00 pm. Refreshment will also be provided on Saturday afternoon.

Classes are held at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Shidler College of Business, Executive Education Center Classroom.

How many hours per week on average the Executive MBA participant is expected to spend in study?

Coursework is rigorous and challenging. Beyond normal classes, you may expect to spend an average of 12-15 hours per week in individual and group study and preparation. A general rule of thumb is that you may spend an average of 1.5 to 2 hours outside work for every hour in class. Most courses use e-mail and internet-based research; use of these tools can help reduce the time commitment required for this strenuous program.

Are participants permitted to waive certain courses if they have taken the course or have prior experiences?

The Executive MBA program is designed as cohort program, where all participants progress through the sequence of courses together to complete the program. Each participant is expected to participate with the group and contribute to the class in all areas where background knowledge and expertise may be less well-developed. Because each student adds important qualities to the richness of the group by bringing different business perspectives and experiences to the class discussion and group work, course waivers, substitutions and transfers of credits are not generally approved.

Does the EMBA program accept tuition waivers?
No, tuition waivers of any kind are not acceptable sources of funding for the EMBA program. Please contact our office to review your source of funding or awards (i.e. sponsorship, fellowship, scholarship, waiver) to ensure it is allowed to be used towards this program.