Executive MBA Myths Busted

Interested in the Carlson Executive MBA program but not sure you belong? Don’t believe some of the myths you may have heard about the Executive MBA.

Myth: You have to manage people to enroll in the Executive MBA program.

Truth: Our students typically have an average of eight years’ management experience—but that’s not restricted to managing people. Do you manage projects? A budget? Are you an independent contributor? Influencer? If so, you’ll fit right in.

Myth: Executive MBA programs are only for people who work at large corporations.

Truth: The students in Carlson’s Executive MBA work in a variety of industries ranging from nonprofit, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and many others. Some are giant multinationals and others are small, family-run businesses.

Myth: It’s better to have an undergraduate degree in business if you want to get an Executive MBA.

Truth: About one-third of our students have an undergraduate degree in business. Other degrees include everything from engineering, math, or science to social sciences or humanities.

Myth: Executive MBA students are required to have corporate sponsorships.

Truth: While some of our students do receive sponsorships from their employers, the vast majority partially or fully fund their own education utilizing financial aid and or private funds. 

Myth: Since an Executive MBA is still an MBA, you need to take the GMAT or GRE to get in.

Truth: Admission requirements for the Carlson Executive MBA program do not call for GMAT or GRE test scores.