After evaluating enrollment patterns and national trends in professional graduate education, the Manderson Graduate School of Business at The University of Alabama made the strategic decision last fall to pause new admissions to the Executive MBA (EMBA) program. Current EMBA students will continue their studies without interruption, and the school remains fully committed to supporting them through degree completion.
Across the nation, working professionals are increasingly pursuing flexible, part‑time, online, and highly specialized pathways to graduate business education. These shifts have influenced enrollment patterns for executive‑format programs industry‑wide. In response, Manderson is taking this opportunity to reimagine how the school can best serve both today’s and tomorrow’s business leaders.
The pause in EMBA admissions enables Manderson to focus on developing new, industry‑aligned graduate programs that reflect evolving employer expectations and leverage the school’s existing strengths. These strengths include Manderson’s prestigious, nationally recognized full‑time MBA program, as well as its growing portfolio of online and in‑person specialized master’s degrees and graduate certificates. Potential future offerings that align with an evolved executive‑level experience may include a Doctor of Business Administration and/or an online MBA designed for working professionals.
Alumni play a vital role in shaping Manderson’s future. Their professional achievements and insights help inform the school’s strategic direction, and Manderson looks forward to engaging them as program development continues. More information will be shared in the months ahead regarding opportunities to provide feedback and participate in this work.
Those who wish to share input or ask questions at this time may contact:
- Donna Blackburn, Assistant Dean for Manderson Graduate Programs
Email: dblackburn@ua.edu - Dr. Sharif Melouk, Associate Dean for the Manderson Graduate School of Business
Email: smelouk@ua.edu
Manderson expresses its gratitude to its alumni and supporters for their continued commitment and for representing The University of Alabama with distinction.