New master's degree for executives offers seasoned professionals a ladder up

The Faculty of Business and Economics at Birzeit University launched its new Executive Masters of Business Administration (EMBA) on March 25, 2017. The program, the first in Palestine, is tailored for professionals with extensive executive experience in the Palestinian marketplace with the purpose of enhancing their collective business acumen through a series of specialized courses that meet their ever-changing needs.

Representing university president Abdullatif Abuhijleh, Assistant to the President Abdel Aziz Shawbka talked about the importance of this modern program in today’s fast-paced world. He said that the degree program aims to strengthen ties with local community institutions and the private sector, while enhancing the quality of education and practical research.

Shawbka stated that the university is currently working with the “Erasmus +” project to establish a research center specialized in business and economics. “We seek to graduate young leaders who can positively and effectively contribute to their societies.”

Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics Grace Khoury stated that the Executive MBA (EMBA) prepares students for professional transformation into the role of general manager and leader. “In a dynamic environment, surrounded by a diverse and global community, we are keen to continuously recruit highly qualified faculty and staff members from Palestine and the world who offer their experience in consultancy, practical training, academia and research.”

“We understand that our students are balancing education along with work, family and other outside commitments. The EMBA program's courses are scheduled so that students attend evening classes in a two-year part time program,” she added.

The director of the newly inaugurated program, Suhail Sultan, said that the EMBA is a two-year part time program designed to stimulate creative management thinking.  “Students are expected to complete 36 credit hours divided into 12 courses. The program avoids disrupting one’s professional or personal life. It allows all participants to achieve a good balance between coursework and class time.”