Academics

Oakland’s EMBA program features hands-on learning methods, with a focus on integrative thinking, analysis of real business cases, working in learning teams and participating in business simulations. Special courses centered on business issues, execution of strategies, and delivery methods meet unique needs of the participants.

Each student is required to complete 39 credit hours of coursework. The curriculum is divided into four components to meet the following objectives:

• Provide foundational knowledge of key business disciplines
• Develop leadership skills through coursework and professional development activities spread throughout the program
• Offer a global perspective through coursework
• Offer insights on the most current and relevant business issues

Preparatory Work and Program Launch (1 credit)

Online preparatory work/tutorials is available for those students who wish to review quantitative skills and obtain a basic introduction to business concepts prior to the program launch. The program launch will be a three-day orientation that will include teambuilding and communication, and an introduction to business concepts.

Business Core (22 credits)

The business core includes the functional areas of business such as financial and managerial accounting, data analytics for executives, economics, marketing, finance, global supply chain and operations management, and business information systems.

Specific program requirements are available in the Graduate Catalog.

Leadership Development (11 credits)

Leadership development starts day one during the program launch and is emphasized throughout the program. Understanding the difference between leadership and management, and learning how to leverage your leadership style is key. Courses in leading people and organizations, bargaining and negotiations, law, ethics, and strategic management will be offered. EMBA students will also cover topics such as leveraging leadership style, overcoming team dysfunctions and 360 evaluations. The program includes leadership assessment tools, one-on-one coaching and 360 evaluations.

Professional Development (1 credit)

This skills-based course develops students' leadership and professional skills with the help of group and individual coaching sessions, assistance with resume reviews and applications for senior level opportunities. The program also includes a series of executive seminars and interactions with professional development staff.

Topical Discussions (4 credits)

Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, Cybersecurity for Executives, and  Leading Diversity + Inclusion.

The cohort structure of Oakland’s Executive MBA program means students enter the program and complete the curriculum together in a set timeframe. Not only does this structure mean you know exactly when your classes are and when you will graduate, you also build a close relationship with your fellow students who will become lifelong members of your personal and professional network.

The sample schedule provides a general overview of how courses flow through the program. 

Summer 1

• Program Launch (1 credit)

Fall 1

• Financial Accounting & Disclosures (2 credits)
• Leadership Feedback and Development (2 credits)
• Managerial Accounting & Decision Making (2 credits)
• Leading People & Organizations (2 credits)

Winter 1

• Data Analytics for Executives (3 credits)
• Strategic Finance (3 credits)
• Negotiation & Conflict Resolution (2 credits)

Summer 2

• Global Supply Chain & Operations Management (3 credits)
• Global Macroeconomic Environment of Business (2 credits)

Fall 2

• Law, Ethics and Leadership (2 credits)
• Strategic Thinking and Competitive Analysis (2 credits)
• Marketing Management (3 credits)
• Leading DEI (1 credit)
• Levering Sustainability (1 credit)

Winter 2

• Global Strategic Management (3 credits)
• Business Information & Analytics Systems (2 credits)
• Cybersecurity for Executives (1 credit)
• AI for Executives Strategic Insights and Practical Applications (1 credit)
• OU Advantage Professional Development & Events (1 credit)

Executive MBA Class of 2023-2025 Calendar

Executive MBA Class of 2024-2026 Calendar

As a member of Oakland’s elite EMBA program, you will tap into the expertise of Oakland University Business School faculty who are recognized in their respective fields.  Industry leaders and accomplished executives lend their deep business knowledge and real-world experience to the program as instructors and guest speakers. Our engaging faculty members provide unparalleled learning, facilitate invigorating discussions and develop leading-edge strategies, positioning you for a lifetime of professional success.

Michelle Hammond

Learn from Michelle Hammond, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Management

Chart your course to success with the Oakland University School of Business, where we're crafting influential leaders for today's dynamic business landscape. Learn from Michelle Hammond, Ph.D. about key leadership topics such as: 

• Organizational Behavior
• Leadership Development
• Identity
• Work-Life Integration

Amy Rutledge

Learn from Amy Rutledge, MBA
Special Instructor of Management Information Systems

At the Oakland University School of Business, we’re developing influential business leaders in our region and beyond. Learn from Amy Rutledge, MBA about key leadership skills such as: 

• Cybersecurity
• Risk Mitigation and Assessment
• Cyber Risk 
• Incident Response planning

Vijayan Sugumaran

Learn from Vijayan Sugumaran, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Management Information Systems and Chair of the Department of Decision and Information Sciences

Develop your leadership with an Executive MBA. Learn from Vijayan Sugumaran, Ph.D. about essential leadership competencies such as:

• Big Data Management and Analytics
• Data & Information Modeling
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Application Architecture

Jennifer Cordon Thor

Learn from Jennifer Cordon Thor, J.D.
Associate Professor of Management

Elevate your career prospects at the Oakland University School of Business, where we're shaping influential business trailblazers in our region and across borders. Learn from Jennifer Cordon Thor, J.D. about important leadership competencies such as:

• Legal Environment of Business
• Leadership, ethics and social responsibility
• Consumer Protections
• Legal and regulatory issues in business

Donna Free

Learn from Donna Free, MAcc
Special Instructor of Accounting

Grow your leadership skills with an Executive MBA. Learn from Donna Free, MAcc about important leadership topics such as:

• Financial Accounting
• Auditing 
• Accounting Information Systems
• International Reporting Standards

Michael Greiner

Learn from Michael Greiner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Management

Elevate your career prospects at the Oakland University School of Business, where we're shaping influential business trailblazers in our region and across borders. Learn from Michael Greiner, Ph.D. about important leadership skills such as:

• Strategic Management
• Corporate Political and Social Responsibility
• Agency and Stewardship Theory