Executive MBA

  • Application process

    To complete the Executive MBA application, you will need the following items:

      • Completed Online Application
      • Unofficial Transcripts
        • From each institution you received at least 12 credit hours
      • Current Resume
      • One Written Essay (one-page)
      • One Recommendation
        • No written recommendation letter is required.
        • We just require that you provide the name and contact information in the application for at least one professional recommendation. Recommendations should come from those who know you professionally, preferably a current or previous manager or a colleague, preferably with a MBA. The recommender will be sent an online form with a few questions to answer.    
      • No Test Score: Because admissions decisions rely heavily on work experience, our students do not need to take a standardized test ( GMAT/GRE).

    For more details on the application, see the EMBA Application Checklist 

    If you have any questions please contact Jamie Fuller, the Director of EMBA Admissions at jafuller@smu.edu. 

  • Transcript Requirements and Submission Information

    To Apply

    You will need to submit a transcript from every institution where you received at least 12 credit hours towards the completion of a degree. You can submit an unofficial or official copy of your transcript; however, each transcript needs to show:
    • Institution name
    • Degree awarded·
    • Date degree awarded or conferred·
    • Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) or comparable data if a different grading system is used

    Instructions for Submitting Official Documents

  • Admission Criteria

    Candidates for the Executive MBA Program should:

      • Have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited university by the time they start the program*
      • Have a minimum of 8 years of work experience with the majority in mid to upper management
      • Currently occupy mid to senior level management
      • Be committed to completing a graduate level degree over a 21-month period

    Candidates will also have demonstrated:

      • Potential for academic success in the classroom
      • A clear vision toward creating and achieving professional, academic and personal goals
      • Willingness to learn and contribute towards class discussions
      • Desire to network with classmates, alumni, and the SMU community


    * SMU Cox Graduate programs require an undergraduate bachelor’s degree for admissions. However, the Admissions Committee reserves the right to make rare exceptions to this policy for select candidates who have extensive work and/or leadership experience but have not completed a bachelor’s degree. Examples of this may include individuals who have an entrepreneurial background and have successfully built a business, have unique experience in leading large teams or business units, or have a non-traditional background in which they did not need a bachelor’s degree to succeed, such as the US Military.

    SMU Cox Graduate Admissions will thoroughly evaluate these candidates using the same criteria for candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree: (1) Will the candidate be successful in our rigorous business program; (2) Will the candidate contribute and add value to their his/her cohort; and (3) Will the candidate be an upstanding member of the Mustang community. Candidates who do not hold a bachelor’s degree may be required to take the Algebra Preparation Course offered by SMU Cox as well as other development programs designated by the Admissions Committee (e.g., MBA Math or GMAC Business Fundamentals) to ensure they are prepared to succeed in the program.

  • Executive MBA FAQ

    I'm interested in the program, what are my next steps?

    • Set up an introductory meeting, as we would like to learn more about your professional goals as we walk with you through the admission process. You can email Jamie Fuller, the Director of Admissions for the EMBA program at jafuller@smu.edu or call us at 214-768-3048 to set up time. Or you can schedule time using the EMBA Admissions Meeting Calendar.
    • Attend an Admissions Event. One of the best ways to learn more about the EMBA program and gain valuable insight into the Cox culture is to experience the Cox community firsthand through an Admissions event. For upcoming Admissions events, see Graduate Admissions Events

    Is the global trip required?

    Yes, and it is included in your tuition. It is a 3-credit hour course which highlights Global Business Consulting. This course is considered a capstone of the EMBA experience. Historically, this 9–10-day trip occurs in October of Year 2.

    Where and how do I apply?

    Using the Online Application. For more details on the application, see the EMBA Application Checklist.

    How many years of work experience do I need to qualify?

    Strong candidates for the Executive MBA Program should have at least 8 years of post-undergraduate work experience. We do accept candidates with untraditional educational timelines. Any candidates with questions about their qualifications, are encouraged to send a resume to Jamie Fuller, Director of Admissions, EMBA at jafuller@smu.edu or call 214-768-3048 to discuss your options.  

    Do I need to take the GMAT?

    We do not require standardized tests for admission (GMAT/GRE/ Executive Assessment). If you have taken a standardized test, you can submit the score, which will be viewed as a supplement to your online application.

    I've been out of school for a long time.  Are there ways you help us prepare for the program?

    Yes. We offer numerous opportunities to prepare. We offer sessions on subjects offered in the program. In addition, some of the faculty members provide preparatory work as well prior to the class. In addition, the Business Leadership Center offers a seminar on Accelerated Learning: Learn Faster, Learn Better.

    When are classes and what are class days like?

    Classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays on alternating weekends. Some of the class days (either Friday or Saturday) are half days, where students attend the morning or afternoon session. Executive MBA class days begin with breakfast at 7:15 AM. The morning classes are from 8:00-11:50 a.m. Lunch is served at the break, and afternoon class sessions are from 1:10-5:00 p.m. Fridays and 12:50-4:40 p.m. on Saturdays. A typical class day also includes breaks for snacks and coffee. 

    How much is the program tuition and what does that amount include?

    The Cox Executive MBA Program tuition for the class entering Fall 2021 Fall 2022 is $123,495. The tuition covers the cost of academic cases, use of the Business Information Center, parking, meals on each class day, lodging, and some meals associated with the required global trip. In addition, there is a $3,000 non-refundable enrollment fee (not applied towards tuition) that guarantees your place in the class. Official tuition payment dates can be found at the university bursar's office.

    Who can I talk with about Financial Aid & loans?

    You can contact Graduate Financial Aid at gradfinaid@smu.edu. After you are accepted to the Cox School, you will have access to our dedicated EMBA financial aid officer. For information regarding Veteran's Benefits see SMU VA Education Benefits.

    What at will my degree be listed as?

    Your diploma will say Master of Business Administration degree, as the Cox School of Business MBA diplomas do not specify the format. The MBA programs at Cox are also fully accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, or AACSB international.

    When can I visit a class?

    EMBA classes are scheduled on most class weekends throughout the academic year on Friday and Saturday morning and afternoon. To check availability or to schedule a class Contact Jamie Fuller, Director of Admissions, EMBA at jafuller@smu.edu or 214-768-3048

    I have questions not listed here. Who should I contact?

    For any questions regarding the EMBA program, contact Jamie Fuller, the Director of Admissions, EMBA at jafuller@smu.edu or 214-768-3048. For questions about our other MBA and MS programs email mbainfo@smu.edu or call 214-768-1214.