Developing Financial Acumen within an Executive MBA Program

Abstract

This paper is a synthesis of research related to developing the financial business acumen of students within an integrated Executive MBA program. It incorporates the perspectives of various constituents including the employer/sponsor, industry, academic boards, and program managers. The format attempts to answer three questions: (1) What do businesses need? (2) How do learning styles and student profile relate to financial acumen? (3) What and when must we deliver? The answer to the third question includes a framework for delivering the finance content consistent with recommendations and findings.