Georgetown Executive Master’s in Leadership Adds Flexibility with Hybrid Format

In response to market demand, the Executive Master’s in Leadership (EML) Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business has transformed into a hybrid program, blending in-person and online learning to provide participants more flexibility as they complete the rigorous degree program.

Students will continue to have classes every other weekend, but starting with the next incoming class in the summer of 2023, classes will be held in-person every six weeks for a long weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), and then alternating Saturdays online. 

While the modality is shifting, the content of the curriculum and the traditional small class size will remain the same. Students will gain the convenience of online learning with the benefit of a diverse, close-knit cohort of peers from numerous industries and functions. 

“These changes to our EML program come at a time where we are all seeking more flexibility in our work-life balance,” said Nita Swinsick, assistant dean of admissions for Executive Degree Programs. “By offering a hybrid model, the accomplished executives in our program will be more equipped to earn their degree while also meeting the demands of their careers and personal lives.” 

Now in its 18th year, the EML program prepares students to work with others across different missions, capabilities, and agendas to coordinate responses to pressing organizational problems. Over 12 months, leaders develop the competencies, cohort, and community to connect their deeper values to an expanded set of approaches for thinking critically, collaborating inclusively, and acting decisively.

The EML program employs a diverse set of delivery mechanisms, combining 12 core courses, three experiential residencies (two domestic and one global), and personal coaching designed to catalyze students’ reflection and self-awareness to force multiply their EML experience. Students will also be guided through an individually tailored capstone project to use evidence-driven decision-making to solve an organizationally relevant leadership challenge and will work in teams on global consulting projects. 

“The nature of our workplaces is rapidly transforming, and this new modality will require our students to learn and collaborate in a hybrid world,” said Catherine Tinsley, Raffini Professor of Management and academic director of the program. “The EML experience will contextualize the curriculum in the reality of their current and future work environments, better setting them, their employees, and their organizations up for success.”