Executive MBA Program { Leadership from every angle. } The Sobey School of Business Saint Mary s University
Leadership from every angle Today s managers compete and operate in a landscape that s increasingly complex and dynamic. The achievements of the past offer little protection from the challenges of today, let alone those of tomorrow. That is where the Sobey Executive MBA Program can help as a vital part of your ability to exploit these trends, and succeed in the world of business. By reading the next few pages you re taking the first step towards being prepared to compete at the higher levels of business. As one of the Sobey Executive MBA handpicked individuals, you will achieve much more than strengthened business credentials; you will be on your way to acquiring the skills needed to manage any complex enterprise, whether it s in the private sector, government, or education. You will learn from not only proven educators, experts from the Sobey School of Business, other Canadian universities and industry, but also from your fellow students: economists, engineers, medical doctors, professionals from public and private sector organizations, global corporations, and small businesses. The Sobey Executive MBA offers a unique opportunity to contribute to and benefit from an MBA experience rooted in real-world practices and delivered in a rigorous, challenging, and integrated environment. It can help you take the lead in the next generation of business leaders. It can give you the drive and vision to tackle all the challenges of the future. Dr. David Wicks Dean, Sobey School of Business
Program Overview The Sobey Executive MBA (EMBA) Program covers You can complete the degree in just two academic years similar material to that of the traditional MBA and awards without interrupting your career path or leaving your full- the same degree. However, in the EMBA classroom, time job. discussion reflects the fact that each participant is already a seasoned business professional. Emphasis is placed on practical applications of management theory. A global perspective is emphasized, and participants will take part in an International Trade Mission as part of the program. In this exciting initiative, teams complete a comprehensive analysis of an international business opportunity, typically outside of North America. Another key feature of the EMBA Program is the proven learning model that combines interactive class sessions, case studies and real-world practice to provide an exceptional management education experience. Classes are divided into groups that work together for the entire program. This allows students to work closely with highlevel peers from a variety of business backgrounds. The EMBA Program is tailored to the needs of full-time Professional and personal development In today s competitive business environment, you must have more than just the right skills and experience. This makes strategic career management key. That s why the Sobey EMBA has partnered with a noted human capital solutions company to provide our participants with a comprehensive, integrated approach to career management. A combination of on-line career management tools and face-to-face coaching sessions provides you with customized career management services at your own pace and according to your own goals. This partnership ensures that our participants have access to some of Canada s best career coaches. Of course, you will also enjoy access to career management services at the Sobey School of Business (SSB), as well. professionals with demanding careers and personal lives. The Sobey EMBA difference Earn your EMBA from an elite program without interrupting your career. Relate classroom work directly to your job many assignments apply to immediate work situations. Develop advanced managerial skills to prepare for broader responsibilities. Equip yourself for success in an era of globalization, restructuring and diversification. Study with nationally renowned faculty. Learn from your fellow participants high level peers from many fields. Expand your network of professional and personal contacts. Travel abroad to study global business strategy. Increase your marketability most graduates attribute promotions and new opportunities directly to the Sobey EMBA Program.
The Academic Plan The Program course work is intended to stretch your mind, challenge your ideas, and give you grounding in contemporary business thinking. Your instructors are some of the world s most gifted teachers and inspired researchers. The EMBA Program consists of 14 courses, in addition to a Major Research Project (MRP). Our challenging, well-balanced curriculum covers all the business basics finance, marketing, human resource management and operations research with an emphasis on analytical skills, long range planning, and international business. The EMBA courses, though similar to the traditional MBA Programs, are enhanced by the extensive experience of the participants. Program Structure Complete calendar available at smu.ca/emba OPENING SESSION Two weeks beginning late August CLASS SESSIONS Four semesters spread over two academic years. Short break at Christmas. 26 hours per course with classes held on Fridays and Saturdays of alternate weeks, September - April of each academic year. INTERNATIONAL Late February / early March - TRADE MISSION year 2 CONVOCATION May - year 2 Your EMBA colleagues hold a variety of positions. General Managers Seeking a better understanding of leading-edge management tools. Entrepreneurs Looking for advanced management techniques. Functional Managers Seeking to develop a broader base of management skills. Not-for-Profit /Public Sector Managers Looking for advanced concepts and skills. First-rate faculty The faculty will challenge you while offering support and stability. We have assembled a world-class group that has won numerous teaching awards and is recognized for strengths in a range of disciplines. They are top researchers with extensive teaching experience, and many frequently consult with organizations around the world. The core faculty consists of members of Saint Mary s renowned Sobey School of Business. In addition, industry experts and business leaders from across Canada lead classes and work with participants. Personal attention is an integral part of the program, including one-to-one faculty supervision of each participant s Major Research Project. Exceptional academic credentials Experts in teaching working executives and managers Extensive business experience Committed to your success
Team-based learning The Sobey EMBA uses team-based learning to create a highly supportive and collaborative learning experience. Employers recognize this learning model to be superior to the approach of many traditional MBA Programs. Team Members from Class of 08: (left to right) Colin Lewis, President - Lewco Furniture Inc.; Dwayne Scallion-Pond, Manager - Business Systems, BC Assessment; Naomi Matthews, Director - Drugstore & General Merchandise Sobeys Inc.; John W. Stevens, Vice President - Silk-Stevens Consulting; Gail Garber, Business Manager - Merck Frosst Canada.
Your class will be divided into teams of four to six individuals who will work together for the duration of the program. Groups are composed to assure that each group has functional area-expertise in diverse industries. All team members share responsibility for class assignments, and groups generally meet once a week outside class time. Many participants find the study group format challenging at first, but ultimately one of the most rewarding pieces of the program. The EMBA Program presents a demanding workload. Your study group provides you with a personal and academic support system to help you balance your academic, family, and career commitments. It allows you extended interaction with peers who possess different perspectives and expertise, and gives you practical, applicable experience as a team player. A first-class learning environment Executive MBA participants enjoy regular Friday night dinners, featuring prominent guest speakers. Guest speakers in the past have included Diane Francis (leading Canadian financial journalist), David McNamara (Consult and Senior Trade Commissioner for Hong Kong), and Allan Shaw (Chairman of the Shaw Group). To get everyone off on comfortable footing, the program starts with introductory or refresher workshops in team building, leadership and accounting. These classes are held in August, just before classes begin. The four-semester course is spread over two years. Semesters follow the normal September-April academic year, with a break at Christmas. Each semester consists of four courses of 26 hours each, held on Fridays and Saturdays of alternate weeks. At the Sobey School of Business you will be treated as the executive you are. The hallmarks of a top-quality EMBA Program are expertise in business education, expertise in adult education, and the ability to provide the personal attention that busy executives require. The Sobey School of Business (SSB) leads in all three. For years we have enjoyed a reputation for catering to the needs of mature students who must balance their studies with the demands of a busy life. At the SSB you will be treated as the executive you are. You will meet in comfortable, attractive, modern classrooms in the heart of Halifax. You will never have to stand in line to register or purchase books; by assembling your course materials, textbooks for you, the EMBA staff makes sure that your administrative details are looked after. A unique component of the Sobey EMBA s Major Research Project requires the participant to explore a question or issue from his or her job. There are no summer classes between the two academic years; this is time participants normally dedicate to working on their Research Project.
Alumni Your network of experienced peers Your colleagues in the Sobey EMBA are successful, highly motivated, and come from a diverse range of professional backgrounds. The typical range in age is from 30-50 with an average of 10-15 years of work experience. The EMBA alumni network is often mentioned by our alumni as one of the most valuable aspects of the EMBA Program. Sobey EMBA alumni, both past and future, will become part of your network. The network extends to professors, visiting guest speakers, and lecturers. Imagine the contacts presidents, CEOs and vice-presidents that are only a phone call away. Having shared a common past, you ll find the people in the EMBA network are open and helpful. Social events include annual President s dinner, football games, and grand opening dinner. As in-house counsel I needed to recognize and understand the business issues facing my client. The Saint Mary s EMBA Program provided me with that necessary insight and knowledge, but more importantly it afforded me the opportunity to participate with senior management in the decision making process. Mark Everett Solicitor - Nova Scotia Power Inc., Class of 2006 The Saint Mary s EMBA was a rewarding learning experience and it has given me the insight to make business decisions with confidence. The instructors were excellent and offered a wealth of academic and practical knowledge and experience. The program has expanded my perspective and broadened my career opportunities in both business and engineering. Sara Tingley Mechanical Engineer - Focal Technologies Corp., Class of 2007
A message to employers Many employers provide support by allowing participants the necessary time off work to attend class. Some also sponsor the cost of tuition. Sponsoring your top performers in the Sobey EMBA Program is an investment in the future of your organization. It enables you to develop and hold on to your top performers, providing them with top-flight business education without interrupting their workplace contributions. The benefits begin immediately EMBA participants bring fresh ideas, new contacts, and a broadened perspective to their organizations; they keep abreast of new technologies and sharpen their decision-making and team-working skills. Class assignments and individual research projects are linked to participants real-life work situations, allowing them to apply their new knowledge to your work place from the start. With an EMBA participant on your team, every member of your staff will be exposed to new ideas and inspiration. Sponsoring an employee in the Sobey EMBA Program is a wise and cost-effective business decision for most organizations; they will add to the skill set of their most promising managers. To help you seek support from your organization, we ve created a downloadable brochure entitled Sobey Executive MBA The Case for Sponsorship. Please visit our website at www.smu.ca/emba or contact our office for further details. High-performance employees and teams provide employers with a critical edge in business today. The Sobey Executive MBA Program has helped some of our most talented employees further sharpen their strategic thinking, analytical, and leadership skills. They have been able to bring their learnings from the program back to their jobs for immediate benefit. Kellie Sauriol Manager, Human Resources - RBC Financial Group
Application process The EMBA Program staff will work with you to ensure that your application is not only complete, but presents you and your qualifications in the best possible light. Admission Requirements We recognize that individual applicants often have unique strengths, and those strengths can be given special consideration in the admission decision. 1. Management experience 2. Letters of reference 3. Previous academic experience 4. GMAT score 5. Personal interview Application Consultation The EMBA Program staff will support you through each step of the application process. They will first offer a preliminary assessment of your qualifications, and then suggest helpful ways to strengthen your application file. To speak with the program staff call 902-420-5175. Information Sessions Information sessions are held throughout Atlantic Canada during the year. They provide an opportunity to learn more about the program, talk with a current student, or alumni. For information session dates, please call 902-420-5175 or check the information session schedule on line at www.smu.ca/emba Program Fees Program fees are all-inclusive and cover tuition, books, cases, learning materials, travel and accommodations for the International Trade Mission. Fees and financing options for the program are available on our website at www.smu.ca/emba Application Procedure Application for admission to the program must include: 1. Application Form: Application forms can be completed on line or downloaded from our website at www.smu.ca/emba, or simply call the program staff at 902-420-5175. 2. Written Statement of Objectives: A letter than outlines current responsibilities and assignments, career accomplishments, reasons for applying to the Sobey EMBA, and professional and personal goals and plans. 3. Resumé: A current resumé that includes lists of certificates, diplomas, and degrees; work experience; memberships in professional associations; and volunteer and community activities. 4. GMAT, GRE, LSAT or MCAT graduate admissions test results or equivalent. 5. Two References: Applications must include an evaluation form completed by work-related sources. These forms can be downloaded from our website at www.smu.ca/emba 6. Official Transcripts: An official transcript from each post-secondary institution you have attended, sent by the Registrar of that Institution to Sobey Executive MBA Admission Committee must be included. There is no application fee for Sobey Executive MBA. Admission to the program is competitive, because space is limited. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applications are reviewed immediately upon receipt of completed files and admission decisions are rendered as soon as possible. Please send all application materials to: Sobey EMBA Admission Committee Sobey School of Business 1800 Argyle Street, Suite 801 Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3N8 We hold all application materials in complete confidence.
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