Executive MBA (EMBA) programs have rapidly become one of the most preferred upskilling routes for working professionals aiming to step into leadership roles without putting their careers on hold. And when it comes to academic excellence combined with a thriving business ecosystem, Chennai stands out as a premier destination. In this blog, we’ll explore the top Executive MBA colleges in Chennai, their programs, fees, eligibility, placements, and what makes them worth considering.
If you’re an ambitious executive searching for the best EMBA program to propel your career forward, this detailed guide is for you.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Chennai for Executive MBA?
Chennai isn’t just known for its educational pedigree but also for being home to top corporate houses, tech parks, and manufacturing hubs. The city hosts several reputed management institutions offering Executive MBA programs in Chennai through weekend, part-time, and hybrid formats, making it ideal for working professionals.
Key benefits:
- Access to India’s fastest-growing business corridors
- Diverse networking opportunities
- Affordable, high-quality management education
- Programs tailored for mid to senior-level executives
Top Executive MBA Colleges in Chennai (2025)
Here’s a comprehensive list of top Executive MBA colleges in Chennai along with their key details:
| College | Format | Accreditation | Fees (INR) | Avg Placement (INR) | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IIT Madras DoMS | Weekend (EMBA) | AICTE Approved | 8.5 Lakh | 16.9 Lakh | 2 Years | IIT brand, strong alumni network |
| Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM) | Hybrid, PGXPM | AMBA, AACSB | 12.3 Lakh | 17.3 Lakh | 1–2 Years | International exposure, dual accreditation |
| Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA) | Part-Time PGDM | SAQS, AACSB | 6–7 Lakh | N/A | 3 Years | Jesuit values, reputed business school |
| IFMR GSB (KREA University) | Modular EMBA | UGC, SAQS | 6–8 Lakh | N/A | 15-24 Months | Strong finance and data analytics focus |
| Saveetha School of Management | Weekend EMBA | NAAC A++ | 2.75 Lakh | N/A | 1–2 Years | Affordable with good local industry links |
Detailed Overview of Leading EMBA Colleges in Chennai
1. IIT Madras – Department of Management Studies (DoMS)
One of India’s top-ranked B-schools, IIT Madras offers a highly selective Executive MBA program in Chennai. Tailored for mid-career professionals, this program emphasizes technology management, strategy, and leadership.
Key Features:
- AICTE approved
- Weekend classes
- Average placement package: ₹16.9 Lakh
- Diverse peer group from IT, manufacturing, healthcare sectors
- Course Fees: ₹8.5 Lakh
- Duration: 2 Years
2. Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM)
Recognized globally, Great Lakes is among the first in South India to receive AMBA and AACSB accreditations. Its Post Graduate Executive Program in Management (PGXPM) is designed for professionals with a minimum of 8 years of work experience.
Why Choose GLIM?
- International faculty and global immersion programs
- Blended learning with residential modules
- Dual international accreditations
- Fees: ₹12.3 Lakh
- Average Salary Package: ₹17.3 Lakh
- Duration: 1–2 Years
3. Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)
Known for its ethics-driven management education, LIBA Chennai offers a well-structured Executive PGDM program suitable for working executives.
Program Highlights:
- Evening & weekend classes
- SAQS and AACSB accredited
- Focus on Business Ethics and CSR
- Fees: ₹6–7 Lakh
- Duration: 3 Years
4. IFMR Graduate School of Business (KREA University)
IFMR is popular for its finance and analytics-oriented management programs. Its Executive MBA equivalent programs provide specializations in Finance, Data Science, and Operations.
Program Benefits:
- Modular weekend sessions
- Access to CFA-aligned curriculum
- International case study-based learning
- Fees: ₹6–8 Lakh
- Duration: 15–24 Months
5. Saveetha School of Management
If affordability is a priority, Saveetha’s EMBA program offers a credible, UGC-approved option with a NAAC A++ grade.
- Fees: ₹2.75 Lakh
- Duration: 1–2 Years
Why Saveetha?
- Industry-relevant curriculum
- Strong academic infrastructure
- Weekend classes for working professionals
How to Choose the Right Executive MBA in Chennai?
While exploring Executive MBA colleges in Chennai, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure AICTE/UGC or international accreditations like AMBA, AACSB.
- Program Format: Weekend, modular, hybrid, or part-time based on work commitments.
- Specializations: Choose schools with niche focuses like Finance (IFMR) or Tech Management (IITM).
- Alumni Network: Strong professional connections add lifelong value.
- Fees vs ROI: Compare total program fees with average post-program salary hikes.
Executive MBA Fees in Chennai 2025
| College | Fees (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| IIT Madras DoMS | ₹8.5 Lakh |
| Great Lakes GLIM | ₹12.3 Lakh |
| LIBA | ₹6–7 Lakh |
| IFMR KREA | ₹6–8 Lakh |
| Saveetha | ₹2.75 Lakh |
Career Scope after Executive MBA in Chennai
Graduates from top Executive MBA colleges in Chennai often witness a salary increase of 30–70%, with opportunities in roles like:
- General Manager
- Senior Business Consultant
- AVP/VP Strategy
- Operations Director
- Digital Transformation Lead
Global MNCs like TCS, Infosys, Accenture, Cognizant, Saint-Gobain, and L&T actively recruit from these institutions.
FAQs
Q. Can I pursue an Executive MBA while working full-time?
Ans. Yes, most programs in Chennai offer weekend, evening, or hybrid modules.
Q. Is an Executive MBA in Chennai AICTE approved?
Ans. Yes, top programs like IIT Madras and GLIM are AICTE-approved or internationally accredited.
Q. Which EMBA in Chennai offers the best ROI?
Ans. IIT Madras and GLIM offer the best returns considering their placement packages and alumni network.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to advance into senior management roles, choosing from the top Executive MBA colleges in Chennai can significantly transform your career. From global accreditations, premium faculty, industry tie-ups to outstanding alumni networks — Chennai offers some of India’s finest options for executive education.
Pro Tip: Attend a couple of info sessions or webinars, interact with current EMBA students, and weigh program costs against expected career benefits before finalizing your choice.
