- Type of qualification
- Master's degree
- Level of study
-
Postgraduate study
Once you’ve graduated with a bachelor’s degree – or have equal experience – you can study at the postgraduate level. Doctoral qualifications require additional entry requirements.
NZQF level 9Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.
- Time to complete
-
2 years of part-time studyPart-time available
- Where you can study
-
Off campus in AucklandAuckland campus
-
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
- Open to international students on campus in New Zealand
Study a Executive Master of Business Administration – EMBA
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
A EMBA is a good fit if you:
- Have extensive work and management experience
- Want to sharpen your strategic, governance and leadership skills for senior roles
- Are moving from a specialist role into general management or executive leadership
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.
Structure of the Executive Master of Business Administration
Structure of the Executive Master of Business Administration
The Massey EMBA is designed around your full-time work, requiring attendance at just 10 weekend classes. The qualification is typically completed within 24 months, with flexibility to extend if needed. Ten weekends of courses are completed over approximately 16 months, followed by an Applied Business Project and a portfolio course (no class attendance required).
Weekend courses are held at the Auckland Albany Campus or at an Auckland Airport Hotel venue for those flying in and out. This nationwide programme connects leaders from across sectors and regions.
You should plan on a minimum of 1- 1½ hours study per weekday, 2-3 hours study per weekend day and online group meetings, in addition to the weekend classes.
Courses and specialisations
Courses and specialisations
Credit summary
Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
240 credits
- Compulsory courses – 240 credits
- Attend contact workshops, block courses, field trips/study tours, workshops, tutorials as required.
Compulsory courses (Choose 240 credits from)
Course code: 115725 Leadership and People 15 credits
A study of organisational behaviour theory and practice in the contemporary environment. The course provides a particular focus on the fundamental knowledge and skills involved in management, leadership and teamwork.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115726 Marketing 15 credits
A study of the marketing function in business, including a range of marketing tools and techniques and their application to marketing situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115728 Contemporary Strategy 15 credits
This course examines the purpose, processes and practices of strategic planning and execution in organisations. Contemporary strategic challenges are examined.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115732 Operations and Logistics 15 credits
This course examines the operations management function and its links to organisational strategic objectives. This course explores how organisations can leverage their operational capabilities to create value and achieve competitive advantage.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115735 Applied Business Research Methods 15 credits
This course provides students with an applied understanding of the role and techniques of business research.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115775 Business Law for New Zealand and International Contexts 15 credits
A study of the business law systems and rules applicable in NZ and selected international jurisdictions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115821 Strategic Management and International Business 30 credits
This course requires students to integrate and apply knowledge from diverse business functions to enhance understanding of business models and value creation in global business.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115822 Applied Business Project 30 credits
Independent business project on a topic approved by the EMBA Director, directed towards the improvement of business practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 295701 Managing Financial Decisions 15 credits
Critical examination of the context, process, and implications of integrated management of financial decisions at an executive level.
View full course detailsCourse code: 295702 Applied Global Governance and Responsibility 30 credits
A reconciliation of global best practices in governance and ethical decision-making with corporate reality, and including a practical assessment of boards in varied organizational structures and settings.
View full course detailsCourse code: 295703 Portfolio I - Global Management 15 credits
A collection of reflective evidence-based learnings in contemporary work environment/s.
View full course detailsCourse code: 295704 Portfolio II - Global Leadership 15 credits
A collection of reflective evidence-based learnings in relation to leadership practice in contemporary work environment/s.
View full course detailsCourse code: 295705 Engage, Motivate, Persuade: Global Leadership Communication in Action 15 credits
Students will develop practical and critical skills in key facets of effective executive communication, including persuasion, motivation, and responding to disparate views. Students will develop their understanding of their own communication style and develop skills in planning and delivering impactful presentations in diverse contexts. Practical insights into gaining and retaining attention and responding to resistance will be developed.
View full course detailsFees and scholarships
Fees and scholarships
Please note that the total fees for the qualification are indicative only, as course fees can increase each year. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
Indicative fees for 2026
- Domestic students: $NZD55,100 over 2 years, plus $NZD6,000 for the international study tour
- International students: $NZD82,800 plus $NZD6,000 for the international study tour.
Fees include eBooks, materials, and catering during workshops but exclude non-tuition fees and insurance costs for international students.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
Domestic students may be able to get financial support for their MBA study through:
- Student loans (StudyLink): Loans can help cover tuition and non-tuition fees.
- Fees Free – Inland Revenue
Careers and job opportunities
Careers and job opportunities
Whether you are advancing into senior leadership, changing industries, or pursuing global opportunities, the Massey EMBA equips you to succeed.
With this qualification, you will:
- Unlock leadership and management roles across business, government and NGOs
- Develop as a strategic, adaptable leader for complex environments
- Apply practical insights immediately in your professional role.
Designed for mid to senior-level professionals, the EMBA accelerates career growth, helping you expand your skill set, sharpen your business acumen and lead with confidence.
Governance New Zealand
Graduates gain affiliate membership with the Chartered Governance Institute New Zealand (CGI Global), including use of post-nominals.
Massey Career Centre
Access career support, skills development, and networking opportunities during your studies and after graduation.
MBA Alumni Network
Stay connected through exclusive events, networking opportunities, and ongoing learning as part of the Massey MBA alumni community. You can also join the AMBA network with over 60,000 members.
What our students say
“There is a famous quote by Albert Einstein that resonates well with my experience and MBA journey – 'No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it.'”
“The MBA for me wasn’t so much about the theory but the overall journey. I gained a network of like minded business people, a space to generate ideas and be challenged, and a platform of general business knowledge to build and grow in my leadership career.”
Accreditations and rankings
Association of MBAs (AMBA)
Massey's MBA programmes (MBA and EMBA) are accredited by the Association of MBAs
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Massey Business School is rated in the top 5% of global business colleges by AACSB International.
CEO magazine EMBA ranking
This international magazine for executives ranked Massey's EMBA in its top MBA qualifications for 2026.
Executive MBA
Ranked in the top 200 globally and 1st in New Zealand.
Executive MBA
Ranked 24th equal in the Asia-Pacific region.
QS Ranking – Accounting and Finance
Massey is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 200 universities for accounting and finance.
QS Ranking - Communication and Media
Massey is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 150 universities for communication and media studies. QS is an organisation that ranks universities worldwide in various topics.
ShanghaiRanking – Business Administration
Massey University is ranked #2 in New Zealand for business administration by ShanghaiRanking.
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