Helping experienced managers move into top leadership roles is the first goal of Sonoma State University's first Executive MBA program set to begin in January 2010.
An informational open house hosted by the School of Business and Economics describes the 18-month executive program at 4:30 p.m. at Aug. 18 in Schulz 3001. Interested applicants are urged to attend.
The EMBA from Sonoma State is a fully-accredited Masters in Business Administration degree, delivered with the schedule, relevance, and leadership focus that accomplished working professionals demand. "The North Bay needs an EMBA program because there are companies here that must add leaders to their ranks," says Dr. Rob Eyler, Chair of Economics at SSU.
"The point is that today - in particular in small firms - almost everyone is in a leadership position. Leaders need an education, training and a network of colleagues to help them meet that challenge."
At a tuition cost of $35,000, the SSU program provides an economical opportunity to gain the quality education that can launch one's career to the next level of leadership and management, Eyler says.
"This can translate into real dollars for graduates." A December 2008 report by the Wall Street Journal shows an initial pay increase of up to 20% for those who complete an EMBA.
SSU's program is a first for the North Bay and provides a varied course schedule in leadership, talent management, financial analysis and marketing. It also includes a sailing trip to the southern coast of California to foster team leadership skills and a trip abroad to study international business. Applications are being accepted beginning Oct. 15.
Dr. William Silver, Dean of the School of Business and Economics, says the most important part of an EMBA is relevance.
"First, the curriculum needs to focus on business tools and strategies that are immediately applicable to the challenges and opportunities that business leaders face. Students in our program will leave the classroom each weekend with tools they can use on Monday."
For further information, call (707) 664-2220 or e-mail emba@sonoma.edu. The School of Business and Economics Web site also offers details about the program and a Q&A with Bill Silver and Rob Eyler at http://www.sonoma.edu/sbe/emba_q_and_a.shtml.
