Executive MBA Program Format

Our class size does not exceed 35 students. When working and learning together in an intense degree program that introduces a myriad of advanced management theories, participants quickly appreciate the intimacy of a small class. Many are employees from Hawaii's leading companies; others are entrepreneurs, physicians, and lawyers. Because the program is diverse and team-based, students often collaborate in small groups bringing together an interesting mix of backgrounds and professions. The value of diversity is that each student brings to the class a unique set of skillls and experiences that collectively create a learning environment second to none.

HPU's Executive MBA Program is recognized as a model for group-oriented learning that engages students in projects that hone leadership, communication, and collaborative skills. Whether conducting e-meetings from the home or office, or cooperating on team projects, Executive MBA students constantly rely upon one another's strengths as a means for achieving success. Relationships formed at the beginning of the program become a powerful aid in completing assignments and projects. The common responsibilities of work, family, and class unite the group serving as an important support system throughout the program. Executive MBA cohorts form into a network of friends and business contacts that continue long after graduation.

Orientation

Each Executive MBA class begins with an orientation program designed to acquaint participants with general expectations, faculty, and each other. Orientation is conducted in an off-campus setting conducive to group activities. The format is informal with an emphasis on establishing comfort with classmates and professors. A general overview of the entire program, a preview of the incoming class, an introduction to library and technology services, and specific details on methods of evaluation, and student responsibilities is presented. The program includes a panel discussion of Executive MBA survival tactics, lead by former Executive MBA students.

MBA Courses

Orientation is followed by an introductory course that assist participants with the transition into academic life. Topics covered in the refresher course include finance, accounting, quantitative methods, economics and other basic skills. This course is taught in a convenient weekend format, and is offered over a five-week period.

The Executive MBA Program includes a cluster of professional courses that focus on marketing, economics, accounting, quantitative methods, human resource management, and information systems. These courses are combined with a series of "contemporary" courses that examine 21st century management challenges at both the micro and global levels. Topics dealing with the global environment, change and innovation, team building, technology, and strategic planning are examined in detail and provide a unifying theme throughout the course of study.

The sequence of courses has been designed to build upon the theories and skills learned in preceding courses. Students begin the program by taking the professional courses that establish a foundation in business and management theory. Later, other courses that are more contemporary in nature are integrated into the curriculum and account for the majority of the program emphasis on cutting-edge concepts. All courses encourage practical application and student participation.