Why You Should Choose The Oxford Executive MBA Program

What sets Oxford’s Executive MBA apart from other programs? Location, location, location.

“Our differentiator may be obvious, but what makes the Oxford Executive MBA stand out from its competitors is Oxford,” says Siobhan Frank, program director for the Executive MBA at Oxford’s Saïd Business School. “Embedded within the world’s top university, we are fortunate to attract some of the best talent, reflected in the quality of our faculty and the quality of our teaching.”

The part-time Executive MBA at Oxford is a two-year program comprising 14 to 18 modules held both at Oxford and internationally. “This format enables our students to learn during intensive immersion weeks and then return to their families and careers with immediate application,” Frank explains.

The typical class includes 65 to 70 students, with an average age of 38. Women make up 38% of the class, and participants typically represent 38 countries and 33 career sectors. The program is accredited by AACSB and EFMD EQUIS and was ranked the number one Executive MBA in the world in both 2024 and 2025 by the QS World University Ranking.

Admissions requirements include a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, at least five of which must be in management roles, along with an undergraduate degree (ideally). Applicants must complete either the GMAT or the GMAC Executive Assessment, demonstrate English language fluency, and submit at least two professional or academic references. The school enrolls students in both September and January, with five application deadlines for each intake.

Still, Frank says, it’s the Oxford ecosystem that truly sets the program apart.

“Oxford is magical,” she says. “The world-class faculty is certainly a highlight, featuring a mixture of traditional academia and experienced practitioners. Beyond this is the wider Oxford experience. In addition to their studies, students are embedded into Oxford’s history and traditions. For example, students begin the program with matriculation, a traditional Oxonian ceremony during which they are formally admitted into the University (in Latin) while wearing traditional subfusc attire. They also attend a variety of receptions, galas, and formal dinners at notable Oxford venues, including many of our stunning colleges.”

THREE CORE THEMES ANCHOR THE OXFORD EMBA

Three core themes form the foundation of Oxford’s EMBA: global complexity, strategic leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking. Frank says the program blends traditional academic teaching with experiential learning. “Students are challenged to reflect on their roles as leaders to benefit society on a local, regional, national, and global scale through our three core themes.”

For global complexity, the program draws on international case studies and experiences to help students thrive in both developed and emerging markets. For strategic leadership, students benefit from focused leadership modules and one-on-one executive coaching. And for entrepreneurship, the program fosters an agile and innovative mindset.

Frank notes that Oxford is one of Europe’s largest hubs for entrepreneurship and innovation. “Saïd Business School’s Entrepreneurship Centre plays a central role within the vibrant Oxford ecosystem, contributing to global innovation and wealth creation by equipping students with the skills and mindset needed in the modern entrepreneurial economy.”

This global reputation for innovation attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds. “The diversity of our cohort is one of our greatest strengths and biggest benefits to the network of students joining the program,” Frank says.

The program consists of 14 to 18 one-week modules, typically spaced five weeks apart. As noted, modules take place in Oxford and abroad. This structure allows students to apply project work and learning directly to their current organizations.

PREPARING STUDENTS WHO CARE ABOUT THE WORLD AND OTHERS

Students are also encouraged to think beyond personal or corporate success.

“Our school’s proposition is to transform individuals who transform business, which transforms the world,” Frank says. “We enroll students who are looking to redefine what leadership looks like — people who care about making a meaningful impact and who are purposeful and curious in their approach. The program is designed for leaders across different industries and geographies. The theories and learnings delivered throughout the program are designed to help develop the next generation of global leaders.”

Students receive robust career support as well.

“Through our Executive Careers team, students receive access to careers coaching, employer engagement, and talent development activities — in one-on-one sessions, small groups, larger workshops, and via external speakers, employers, and alumni,” she says. “Our students have access to an expert group of Careers Advisors, Coaches, and Industry Advisors who have extensive experience working for leading firms across a range of sectors.”

Students also benefit from personalized executive coaching designed to sharpen their leadership abilities. “Through this coaching, students become more curious, aware, and reflective as global leaders.”

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