Executive Master of Business Administration – EMBA
Course details
| NZQF Level | 9 |
|---|
About the course
An EMBA that works for you
The Massey Executive MBA (EMBA) is designed for experienced managers and leaders from across New Zealand who want to step into senior leadership. Delivered in a flexible weekend format, the qualification brings together professionals from a wide range of industries, creating valuable networks and rich peer learning.
You’ll build a strong foundation in the core disciplines of business and learn to apply them strategically in complex, real-world environments. A strong focus on strategy ensures you can shape and deliver long-term direction for your organisation.
The EMBA includes practical domestic and international consultancy projects, giving you the opportunity to work directly with organisations to solve real challenges. You’ll also explore governance in action, including the opportunity to observe a board, strengthening your understanding of leadership and decision-making at the highest level.
The Massey EMBA combines academic rigour with practical application, and is taught by industry experts and leading academics. It equips you to lead with confidence, drive innovation, and build enduring professional networks.
The EMBA runs over 10 intensive weekends across 16 months, followed by an applied business project that integrates your learning. Between weekends, online sessions with lecturers and peers provide flexibility and help you stay connected while balancing work and life commitments.
Develop your leadership skills
Our practice-led courses strengthen your critical thinking, self-awareness and strategic leadership. You’ll apply world-class business strategies directly in your workplace, turning theory into action from day one.
On completion, you are eligible for Associate membership of the Chartered Governance Institute New Zealand.
A practical learning experience
- Interactive, industry-focused classes
- Assessment through applied projects and consulting work (no exams).
- Input from corporate leaders, exposing you to real business challenges.
- Live case studies, consulting projects and an international study tour.
You will develop superb options for your future
Every stage of the EMBA is designed to position you for the next step in your career. Whether you want to move into senior executive leadership, contribute at board level, or pivot into a new direction, the EMBA offers the skills, networks and confidence to get there.
International study tour; a career-defining experience
A standout feature of the Massey EMBA is the international study tour and consulting project, giving you first-hand experience of operating in a global environment.
In your second year, you’ll take part in a 5-day international study tour, choosing from 2 destinations offered annually. You’ll explore how organisations operate within different economic, cultural and social contexts.
You’ll also complete an international consulting project, working with an overseas organisation to solve real strategic challenges. This experience enables you to deliver tangible value while developing your ability to operate across borders.
Together, the tour and consulting project position you as a leader with genuine global experience; ready to contribute in both international and domestic contexts.
- Find out more about the Executive MBA
- Register your interest
Related qualifications
Master of Business Administration
The Massey MBA is a 180-credit qualification designed for early to mid-career professionals with at least 3 years of work experience. You can complete the qualification in just 1 year full-time on campus.
With specialisations in Global Business and Business Sustainability, the MBA equips you with the practical skills to progress into management or transition into a new career path.
Postgraduate Certificate in Business (Business Administration)
This qualification consists of 4 courses from the first year of the EMBA. It’s ideal if you want to:
- Ease into study while balancing work and life (up to 2 years to complete).
- Experience the EMBA before committing to the full qualification.
- Create a pathway into the EMBA if you don’t have an undergraduate degree (special admission conditions apply).
With the same entry requirements as the EMBA (7+ years of professional experience, including 3 in management) you’ll study alongside experienced professionals from across New Zealand. Achieve a B– average or higher, and you can transition into the EMBA, carrying your completed courses with you.
This flexible, future-focused qualification is your chance to build momentum, open new doors, and set yourself on the pathway to senior leadership.
International students
New Zealand offers a supportive and welcoming environment for international students. Massey is rated 5-Star Plus by QS World University Rankings and is known for approachable staff, small classes, and faculty who bring industry expertise to their teaching.
Graduates may be eligible for a 3-year post study work visa (conditions apply).
Important for international students
- Apply at least 3 months before your start date to allow time for admissions and visa processing
- Massey has a Licensed Immigration Adviser service for those without an agent
- Learn about studying at Massey as an international student
Insights
- Top 150 globally – Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025
- Tier One CEO Magazine – Global EMBA ranked #10
- #1 in New Zealand, 24th equal in Asia/Pacific (QS ranking)
- AACSB ranks Massey in the top 5% of business schools in the world
- Accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA)
AMBA accreditation is recognised globally by employers as a mark of quality and excellence.
Your Massey EMBA will help you:
- Create a positive impact on organisations and society
- Lead sustainable, inclusive, and diverse teams
- Make ethical, well-informed decisions
- Navigate complex and changing environments
- Operate effectively across cultures
- Apply strategic leadership at a senior level
- Commit to lifelong learning and career growth
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
Documentation and interview
You need to supply the following documentation with your application:
- copies of official transcripts of all previous university other than Massey University and/or professional qualifications
- a full CV showing at least 7 years' work experience including at least 3 years of management level experience;
- a comprehensive statement of personal goals including aspirations and expectations
- a passport-sized photo for identification purposes.
You may be asked to take part in a selection interview or provide additional information for the selection panel.
The work experience requirement ensures that you can contribute significantly to group discussions and debates from a position of experience and knowledge. Consequently, if you do not have such experience, you are unlikely to be considered for entry.
Application closing date for study in 2027
- Early February 2027 (domestic students)
- Mid-December 2026 (international students)
Time limits for Honours, Distinction and Merit
Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with a class of Honours.
- Look for information under ‘Student Progression’ in the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates.
- Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
If you are unable to complete your EMBA within the 2 years and 6 months completion period, you will not be eligible for the award of Honours.
Prior learning, credit and exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:
- review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
- contact us through the Get advice button on this page.
Maximum time limits for completion
There are time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications. The EMBA time limit is 6 years, though to be considered for “honours” you must complete within 2½ years.
If you do not complete your EMBA within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations or this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more. Please contact us through the “Get advice” button on this page if you have any questions.
About the provider
Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa is a leading New Zealand university, world-renowned for unique practical qualifications, ground-breaking research, and online courses.
Each year over 5,000 international students from more than 100 countries find a warm welcome at Massey. We are ranked in the top 250 universities in the world by QS World Rankings and have a well-established reputation for academic leadership, research excellence and innovative teaching.