The importance of being curious and thinking creatively are considered core skills according to research by The World Economic Forum. Incorporating curiosity and creative thinking with sound analytical and critical thinking skills will ensure leaders can navigate the changes in industry over the next several years.
The forum gathered insights from 803 companies across 27 industries and 45 economies from across the world to create The Future of Jobs Report 2023. In addition to analytical thinking, the report identified most employees need to demonstrate resiliency and self-awareness to support business planning during the 2023-27 timeframe.
Executive MBA Teaches How to Make Evidenced-Based Decisions
In addition to enabling executives to cultivate their business management skills, the Executive MBA Program at the University of Pittsburgh’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business teaches strategic leadership and develops students’ ability to make evidence-based decisions. Established almost 50 years ago, the EMBA degree is even more relevant in today’s ever-changing business environment.
“The courses in the program look at critical business problems from a decision-maker’s perspective using a multi-dimensional lens,” says Prakash Mirchandani, professor of business administration and academic director of the Executive MBA Program.
For example, accounting classes usually look at the subject from an accountant’s view but in this program, the emphasis is on a leader’s view; the leader needs to think about what needs to be done next. “This is done through a variety of pedagogies such as case studies, lectures, problem-solving with simulations either via a computer or in-person, or role-playing,” says Mirchandani.
Jonathan Hicks, an engineering category leader at Philips Respironics, was enrolled in our EMBA program during the pandemic and used what he learned in the classroom to rapidly research, develop, and launch an emergency-use ventilator in high volumes.
“When I look back, I can clearly see how my Executive MBA prepared me for that moment,” says Hicks. “Now I have mental models on various topics that I had not previously been exposed to in the workplace. Plus, I have a more rounded perspective when making decisions.”
Cohort Model Enhances the EMBA Experience
Students usually have at least a decade of professional experience, including at least three years managing others, before they enroll in our EMBA program. Since they are leaders within their organizations, they contribute real-world insights to class discussions.
The cohort experience was an aspect of this program that Hicks found very beneficial.
“I was looking for a group of peers to learn from and collaborate with,” says Hicks. “I wanted to find a group of individuals who shared a similar passion and drive for excellence. I value the classroom environment and rich dialogue.”
Ready to Learn More?
To learn more about the EMBA program, visit our website or, complete this form to schedule a meeting with a member of our outreach team. Our other Executive Degree Programs include an Executive MBA in Healthcare degree and an Executive Doctor of Business Administration degree.
Pitt Business, which includes the Katz Graduate School, is among only 5% of business schools accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).