While both the MBA and the Executive MBA award the same MBA degree and sometimes have a similar curriculum, there are some methodological differences. The main difference is that the Executive MBA is primarily designed for managers and executives who already have a significant professional WORK EXPERIENCE. The Executive MBA meets the needs of upper level managers. Candidates are often evaluated based on what is expected that they will bring to the program. They remain in full-time employment  studying part-time.

Full-time MBA students are almost at the beginning stages of their career and take part in a number of practical exercises, making it more suitable for those at an earlier stage in their career. They are not required to have professional work experience, but they must take the GMAT.

You will have the time to reflect on the learning and work on the assignments for the module’s subject. USI provides an easy-to-use e-learning platform that enables you to continue exchanging information and knowledge with the faculty and your peers and to complete group work and other assignments between modules.

The time spent studying outside the classroom varies from participant to participant. On the basis of our past student experiences we estimate you should spend the same time you spend in class. An average of 3 days each month in addition to time spent in class.

The project focuses on a business issue of particular relevance to you and/or your organization. Supervised by a faculty member, you integrate theory and practice, and apply the knowledge and tools introduced during the program to real business challenges. It is your opportunity to provide a substantial and tangible benefit to your organization as you apply the latest trends and research in management thinking.

Yes. Approximately 30% of EMBA participants live outside Switzerland and commute to Lugano every month for classes.

You need to be able to demonstrate experience in the management of projects, budgets, processes or people over a sustained period. Students typically have between 5 and 20 years of managerial experience.

Executive MBA students normally have an undergraduate degree from a recognized university. However, we do accept a percentage of non-graduates each year. We would expect such candidates to have alternative professional qualifications and/or outstanding work experience.

The TOEFL/IELTS is not required.

Candidates are required to submit academic transcripts from their undergraduate or graduate educational institutions. If the original transcripts are not in English, German, French or Italian you must also provide certified translated copies.

Please check on our website’s event session. We also invite you to contact us to schedule a personal visit to the campus.

Email emba@usi.ch or call + 41 (0) 58 666 4479 (Paulo Gonçalves) + 41 (0) 58 666 4478 (Cristina Saporiti) , + 41 (0) 58 666 4463 (Lisa Parolini), + 41 (0) 58 666 4451 (Melania Ceccato).

We do require an interview, on-site or by phone. We strongly encourage all applicants to schedule a personal interview and class visit. Spending a session on campus with students may help you understand what you want to say in your application. You don’t have to have a filled application to schedule an interview; we just need your CV.

The USI Executive MBA is focused on creating a win-win situation for both participants and their organizations. By investing in a high-potential employee and sending him/ her to attend the USI EMBA, an organization benefits in the short-term from the up-to-date management knowledge and ready-to-apply skills that the participant brings home after each module. In the medium-term, the company project offers the possibility of a fresh look at current projects or future plans under the supervision of a faculty expert.

For example, a recent student research paper showed how an international organization can save 12-14% on their distribution costs; the research results are currently being implemented by the organization in question. In addition, in the long-term, the organization benefits from the graduate’s energy and drive to secure a solid basis for growth and expansion, his/her enhanced leadership skills, as well as a new network of multi-industry contacts.

You are not required to secure financial support. You can ask for financing to local banks.

Fees include tuition, all program and project-related fees, course materials, coffee breaks and program lunches. For participants requiring accommodation during the modules, the University has preferred rate agreements with some hotels located near the campus.
Regarding the Study Tour abroad, participants need to take care of housing and flight.

For self-funded candidates, under special circumstances USI EMBA offers partial-tuition, scholarships for top EMBA applicants.

If you are not able to attend on-campus sessions in Lugano, there are several alternatives that allow you to meet and speak with USI EMBA students and alumni. Send an email to emba@usi.ch so that we can match you with a suitable contact.