Question on EMBA programs without Undergraduate degree

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Hello all,

I proably should have posted this in this area initially last night, so reposting now. Hopefully some people here may have some thoughts/advice on entering an EMBA program without completing an Undergraduate degree.

My current situation is 10 years experience in professional career (8 of those have been in management with increasing levels of responsibility all at the same organization). School on and off since I was 18, now 30. Currently enrolled in technical college working towards an AAS, but just found out of the possibilities of earning an EMBA without the BA requirement. My main goal in pursuing the degree is continued advancement into Executive and Sr Executive roles at my current organization. I do not have a huge desire to go otuside my company right now, but eventually will depend on opportunities available to me.

That said, if accepted into this MBA program what are the disadvantages of going this route? Potentially with future employers as well as limitations in perhaps eventually teaching business at a college level.

Thank you for your time and look forward to chatting with you all some more. I just ordered my OG and Manhattan companian and will pick up the PR Cracking GMAT at library this week, so looking forward to this new challenge!

Thank you all for your help.
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by Lisa Anderson » Fri Aug 06, 2010 7:48 am
Dear medallo1,

I think it is possible you might find an EMBA program willing to waive its bachelor's degree requirement based on your work experience, but it will greatly depend on the school's evaluation of your professional career. Even if you do succeed in getting that requirement waived, I do think you should be prepared for questions from potential employers as most will assume you have a bachelor's degree if you have a master's degree. It is very uncommon to be awarded a graduate level degree without an undergraduate degree. Likewise, it is unlikely a school will allow you to teach without a bachelor's degree even if you do earn the MBA. Schools, even online and community colleges, are very strict in their requirements due to accreditation issues and will require certain education and experience criteria be met. In rare instances, a college might hire an adjunct instructor based on professional experience for a particular elective course that is highly specialized, but that is pretty uncommon.

Having said all that, I think it is something you should look into as you are at a point in your career where I can understand you wanting to accelerate your education level. However, I do think it is important you have all the facts so you can be prepared for questions and potential issues you might encounter as a result.

Good luck,
Lisa
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by Tani » Sun Aug 08, 2010 4:21 pm
You are to be commended for pursuing the EMBA. Depending on the strength of your working career, as well as your GMAT and recommendations, you may be able to get into a strong program. I agree with Lisa that a teaching position is extremely unlikely without at least a bachelor's and often an advanced degree. If, however, your primary purpose is to gain skills that will aid your business career, by all means go after the EMBA. Most EMBA programs require that you be employed and have your employer's consent to enter the program. The strength of your employer's relationship with the schools in your community can make a big difference. If you are working for a leading company, the school may be more willing to overlook your lack of a BA. It may be worth your time to arrange to talk to people in the admissions departments of the schools in your area. Some of the more competitive schools cater to out-of-town students who arrange to travel to the school on the weekend. While that would expand your options, it is an expensive and time-consuming option.

Good luck with your search.
Tani Wolff