How does the IEM Program differ from an MBA program?

The simple answer is that we are a leadership development program, not a business administration program.  We have an endgame in mind for you, an added dimension, something beyond “did you complete all of the required courses.”  We teach fundamental business skills – finance, marketing, operations, strategic management, and entrepreneurship – just as business administration programs do, but we differ in two important ways.  First, we have a technology focus; we don’t offer a technology concentration, we require it.  Second, we include personalized, professional coaching throughout the program, because you absolutely need more than textbook-knowledge to succeed.

Is IEM the right choice for you? I’m going to just net out my own, personal view because I’m trying to inform you and help you to make the best decision.  I would tell you that if you want to specialize in accounting or marketing, or if your dream is to be CFO or the head of HR, then a general business administration degree might make sense.  (Honestly, I have a little trouble even conceding this point, but I’m trying to be fair.  And note that I say “specialize” in one of these areas.  Others on the IEM staff might not even go this far, since good leadership skills are a pre-requisite for ANY executive position).

But if you have a technical background and you want to be a more confident leader, a better communicator, a person having the skills to manage a technology company – or start one – then you should strongly consider IEM.

How does the IEM Program benefit its clients?

To distill it down, let’s simply say that there are benefits in terms of knowledge, networking, and accomplishments.  You will broaden your knowledge of both business and technology.  You will sharpen your presentation, public speaking, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.  You will make life-long friends and contacts – faculty members, business leaders, peers, and alumni – as you expand your professional network.  You will emerge from IEM as a more confident leader and you will receive a graduate degree in engineering.

That is the value proposition of IEM.