FAQs for our Executive MBA
We’ve put together some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you decide if our part-tim Executive MBA is the right route for you. And we’re sharing our top tips to help you make a successful application ready for the start of the academic year.
What is an Executive MBA?
It’s a two-year part time master’s programme that covers every aspect of business strategy, leadership and management. It’s designed to bring together theory and practice allowing you to apply what you learn as you learn it. It’s the benchmark qualification for managers wanting to grow their careers in business, the public or not for profit sector or those who want to start a business or become an entrepreneur.
Many employers not only actively seek to promote or recruit staff who have an MBA, they also invest in existing staff by funding or part-funding their MBA tuition fees.
The Surrey Executive MBA is taught by experienced academics who are leaders in their subject and have direct experience of business, industry, public and not for profit organisations.
Is it too late to apply for an MBA starting in September/October?
No, but you do need to get on with it. We recommend getting your application in, even if you haven’t fully made your mind up. The process will give you the chance to ask questions and work out if an MBA is the right option for you.
Our first weekend of teaching is 19 October, the second weekend after an induction weekend so you will need to submit your application by 30 September at the latest.
An MBA is expensive, is it worth it?
Yes, and you may be thinking that we would say that, but we’ve seen the incredible impact that the MBA experience has on our students. It empowers and enriches you, and those around you will see the benefits right from the start as you quickly put your learning into practice. An MBA represents excellent value for money for a leadership career in any business and for employers.
I’m not sure I can afford it. Is there any help with the costs?
We have a number of scholarships available for Executive MBA Students and we also offer an employer partnership scheme where we will match an employer’s contribution to your tuition fees up to 40%.
If you would like to know if you are eligible for a scholarship, or the employer partnership scheme, please email mba@surrey.ac.uk. We won’t be able to offer you a scholarship until we’ve received your application and interviewed you, but we will be able to confirm if you are eligible.
What experience and qualifications do I need?
We’re mostly interested in your work experience. You should have at least five years in a management or leadership role. Ideally you will also have an undergraduate degree but we’re also happy to take students with professional qualifications. Occasionally, we’ll also take students with much higher levels of management experience, at least ten years, in lieu of qualifications.
Do I have to do any tests or exams as part of the application process?
No, but we will do a short interview with you. A member of our MBA team will have a chat with you about your motivation for doing an MBA and talk through your management experience. It’s also a chance for you to ask us any questions.
It’s been a long time since I’ve had to write an essay or sit an exam, and I can’t remember any of my school maths. Can I really do this?
Our EMBA class profile is deliberately designed to be diverse, with multiple perspectives and expertise. So, you will not be the only person in the classroom feeling a bit daunted by the idea of ‘going back to school’! We give you guidance and support to make sure you quickly develop the skills you need for your assignments. You’ll also find that the writing and critical thinking skills you’ve developed through your work will easily transfer into the classroom.
We have excellent study support available through our Library and learning service, including refreshers on how to structure different kinds of assignments.
If you are worried about a disability, dyslexia, dyscalculia or support for neurodiversity, we have a Disability and Neuroinclusion Team who can help you to get the support you need.
I’ve heard that an MBA is really hard work. How much time will I need to commit?
You will definitely earn your MBA but the journey should also be enjoyable and highly rewarding.
We teach the Surrey Executive MBA on weekends, never more than two a month with a good break over the summer, Christmas and Easter. You will need to study on your own, or occasionally work on group assignments, outside of the taught weekends. You will have freedom to organise your own time around this and many employers are also happy to grant study time, particularly around assignments. Most students find their learning time varies from subject to subject but the more you put in the more you get out.
I’m an employer, why do I need staff with MBAs?
The MBA is the definitive business management qualification covering all aspects of strategic leadership and operational management. Surrey Business School works with business and employers to understand their needs and current issues in their sector. Our research informs our teaching so graduates quickly develop skills and knowledge that are needed now and for the future; for example, AI in business, business analytics, digital marketing and sustainability.
Most importantly it’s a practice-based degree so, while learning the essential theory, students are also developing skills and putting their learning into practice from day one. If your business needs brilliant thinkers who can role their sleeves up and make things happen, then you need some MBAs.
Where will teaching take place?
You’ll learn in the beautiful and historic hotel and business retreat, the De Vere Horsley Estate, in East Horsley, Surrey.
The Estate offers multiple event spaces perfect for training, along with grounds for team-building. Its beautiful surroundings add to the ambient environment to create a unique experience and make the learning enjoyable.
We offer subsidised rates for overnight stays in the Horsley Estate residence for all our EMBA students who wish to stay overnight where the learning takes place.
