Unlike an MBA program, an executive development program is shorter in duration, lasting several days to months. Additionally, an executive development program does not result in a degree upon completion. The primary goal of an executive education program is to serve as a source of advanced education for professionals that are in leadership positions - allowing them to bolster their knowledge on specific, executive-relevant topics and stay up to date on all of the fast-moving developments that take place in today’s dynamic business world.
Executive education programs also provide an opportunity for enrolled managers and business leaders to meet and interact with their industry peers, network, and exchange ideas. An executive development program is led by an expert instructor, but courses often incorporate small group discussions as well in order to facilitate debate and the exchange of ideas amongst students. Courses may also include one-on-one coaching sessions with the program leaders, role-playing exercises, and case studies.
When choosing an executive leadership development program, it’s important to consider several variables.
1. How much time do you have available to devote to the program? (Some courses run for as long as 18 months, while others may take place over several days).
2. What are the specific skills you’re interested in learning?
3. What are the areas of study where you’re looking to increase your depth of knowledge?
4. What types of courses will have the greatest impact on your professional growth?
Once you’ve established what you’d like to get out of a program, it’s a good idea to compare available programs and institutions in order to find the best fit.
Source: executive.berkeley.edu
Source: executive.berkeley.edu
