University of New Hampshire EMBA Program

The Whittemore School of Business and Economics, now known as the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), holds a distinguished place among business schools in the United States. Located in Durham, New Hampshire, the school has consistently demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence, innovative programming, and the cultivation of leaders capable of navigating the challenges of today’s complex global economy. One of its most significant contributions to advanced business education is its Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) program.

As the first program of its kind in New England, the Whittemore School’s EMBA has served as a pioneer in offering mid- and senior-level professionals an opportunity to enhance their managerial capabilities, expand their professional networks, and accelerate their careers. With an emphasis on leadership development, experiential learning, and collaboration with peers from diverse industries, the EMBA program exemplifies the Whittemore School’s mission to provide transformative educational opportunities.

This guide provides a detailed examination of the Whittemore School of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire, with particular focus on its EMBA program. It explores the history and philosophy of the school, the design and purpose of the EMBA program, the characteristics of its participants, the national rankings and recognition earned by the school, and its accreditation. It also situates the Whittemore School within the broader context of UNH’s academic mission and environmental leadership, demonstrating how the institution has earned its place among the leading business schools in the nation.

History and Evolution of the Whittemore School of Business and Economics

The Whittemore School of Business and Economics was named in honor of Kingsbury Whittemore, a prominent New Hampshire businessman whose contributions to the state helped foster economic development and educational opportunity. Since its inception, the school has aimed to provide a rigorous, practical, and forward-thinking business education. Its focus on blending traditional business theory with experiential learning has made it a leader in preparing students for both immediate career success and long-term leadership.

Over the years, the school has expanded its portfolio of programs to include undergraduate, graduate, and executive education options. Its faculty has grown to include scholars and practitioners whose research and expertise contribute to a deeper understanding of business trends, challenges, and opportunities. This combination of academic rigor and applied practice has shaped the school’s reputation for producing graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also thoughtful leaders capable of contributing to their communities.

The Whittemore School’s transformation into what is now known as the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics reflects ongoing growth and investment. With new facilities, expanded programs, and a commitment to innovation, the school continues to advance the legacy of its namesake while adapting to the evolving needs of students and employers alike.

Philosophy and Mission

At its core, the mission of the Whittemore School is to foster leadership, innovation, and ethical decision-making in business. This philosophy rests on the belief that education must prepare individuals not only to succeed in their careers but also to contribute positively to society. Business leaders, in this vision, are more than managers of organizations—they are agents of change, capable of addressing global challenges with creativity and responsibility.

The school’s philosophy emphasizes three pillars: rigorous academic training, experiential learning, and collaborative networks. Rigorous training ensures that students develop a strong foundation in key disciplines such as finance, marketing, strategy, and operations. Experiential learning, which includes internships, case studies, simulations, and consulting projects, ensures that knowledge is applied in practical settings. Collaborative networks—both among peers and with faculty, alumni, and industry partners—provide the connections that enable professional growth and innovation.

The Executive MBA program, as one of the school’s flagship offerings, reflects these pillars in its design. It challenges experienced professionals to deepen their knowledge, broaden their perspectives, and refine their leadership skills in an environment that values both theory and practice.

The Executive MBA Program

The Executive MBA program at the Whittemore School is distinctive not only for its academic rigor but also for its pioneering status as the first of its kind in New England. Designed for mid- to senior-level professionals with significant work experience, the program recognizes that participants bring with them a wealth of knowledge, skills, and insights from their careers. Rather than offering a traditional classroom experience aimed at novices, the EMBA is tailored to meet the needs of experienced leaders seeking to elevate their performance and expand their influence.

The fast-paced structure of the EMBA program is one of its defining features. It allows busy professionals to earn a top-level business degree without putting their careers on hold for an extended period. Coursework is delivered through a combination of intensive in-person sessions, online components, and collaborative projects, making the program flexible yet demanding.

The curriculum covers a wide array of topics critical to executive leadership. Strategic management, organizational behavior, finance, marketing, operations, and global business are all addressed in depth. At the same time, the program emphasizes soft skills such as communication, negotiation, and ethical leadership—competencies that are often decisive in executive roles. Case studies, simulations, and group projects allow participants to apply what they learn to real-world challenges, making the learning process highly practical.

The cohort model is another hallmark of the program. Students progress through the curriculum as a group, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration. This model not only builds lasting professional networks but also ensures that students learn as much from one another as they do from faculty. The diversity of industries represented in the cohorts enriches discussions and provides multiple perspectives on business issues.

Target Audience and Participant Profile

The Executive MBA program at the Whittemore School is not intended for recent graduates or those at the beginning of their careers. Instead, it targets individuals who already hold managerial or professional positions and are preparing to transition to senior leadership. Participants typically have multiple years of work experience, often in mid- to senior-level roles, and seek to enhance their strategic thinking, broaden their leadership competencies, and expand their professional networks.

The program attracts professionals from a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, government, and nonprofit organizations. This diversity contributes to a rich learning environment in which students gain insights not only into their own fields but also into the broader dynamics of the global economy.

Many participants view the program as a critical step in their career progression. For some, it provides the skills and credentials needed to secure promotion within their organizations. For others, it serves as preparation for a career transition, equipping them to move into new industries or entrepreneurial ventures. In all cases, the program is designed to help participants achieve their professional goals while strengthening their capacity to lead in complex, uncertain environments.

National Recognition and Rankings

The Whittemore School of Business and Economics has earned national recognition for its academic excellence and innovative programs. In 2006, U.S. News & World Report named it one of the top 100 graduate business schools in the nation, a ranking that placed it among the most respected institutions of its kind. This recognition reflects not only the quality of the faculty and curriculum but also the outcomes achieved by graduates.

The University of New Hampshire itself has also garnered attention for its environmental leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Sierra magazine ranked UNH among the top ten “Coolest Schools” in the nation, recognizing its commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Entrepreneur magazine likewise named UNH one of the best 100 collegiate entrepreneurship programs in the country, affirming its support for innovation and creativity among students.

These rankings demonstrate that the Whittemore School and UNH as a whole are not only strong academically but also forward-looking in their approach to education. The focus on sustainability and entrepreneurship complements the business programs, preparing graduates to lead organizations that are both economically successful and socially responsible.

Accreditation and Professional Affiliations

Accreditation is a vital marker of quality in higher education, and the Whittemore School of Business and Economics has achieved accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This accreditation is held by fewer than five percent of business schools worldwide, placing the Whittemore School among an elite group of institutions recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and student outcomes.

AACSB accreditation requires schools to meet rigorous standards regarding faculty qualifications, curriculum design, learning outcomes, and continuous improvement. For students, it ensures that their degree carries weight in the job market and that the education they receive is aligned with the highest professional standards.

In addition to AACSB accreditation, the Whittemore School is a founding member of the Executive MBA Council. This organization unites EMBA programs around the world, providing a forum for collaboration, sharing best practices, and advancing the quality of executive education globally. Membership in the council reflects the school’s commitment to leadership not only within New England but also on the international stage.

The Broader University of New Hampshire Context

The success of the Whittemore School cannot be understood in isolation from the broader mission and achievements of the University of New Hampshire. Founded in 1866, UNH has grown into a comprehensive research institution with strengths in liberal arts, sciences, engineering, and business. It serves a diverse student population and maintains a commitment to research, public service, and innovation.

One of UNH’s defining characteristics is its dedication to sustainability and environmental leadership. The university has made significant investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and ecological research, positioning itself as a model for other institutions. This commitment aligns with the values of many students and faculty in the Whittemore School, who recognize that business leaders must consider environmental and social impacts alongside financial performance.

UNH’s entrepreneurial ecosystem also supports the Whittemore School’s mission. Through incubators, innovation centers, and partnerships with industry, the university fosters creativity and supports students who wish to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. The recognition by Entrepreneur magazine as one of the best collegiate entrepreneurship programs highlights this aspect of UNH’s identity.

The Value of the Executive MBA

The Executive MBA program at the Whittemore School offers immense value for participants. By combining rigorous academics with practical application and networking opportunities, the program equips professionals with the tools needed to succeed in senior leadership roles. Graduates emerge with enhanced analytical skills, strategic thinking abilities, and confidence in their capacity to lead organizations.

The program also provides intangible benefits. The cohort model creates lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend far beyond graduation. The opportunity to learn from peers in different industries broadens perspectives and fosters cross-sector collaboration. For many participants, the program is not only a career accelerator but also a transformative personal experience.

Conclusion

The Whittemore School of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire has established itself as a leader in business education through its innovative programs, dedicated faculty, and commitment to excellence. Its Executive MBA program, the first of its kind in New England, exemplifies the school’s mission to prepare experienced professionals for senior leadership roles.

With AACSB accreditation, national recognition from U.S. News & World Report, and active membership in the Executive MBA Council, the Whittemore School demonstrates a level of quality and prestige that places it among the elite business schools in the nation. Situated within a university that values sustainability, entrepreneurship, and innovation, the school offers an educational experience that is both rigorous and forward-looking.

For mid- to senior-level professionals seeking to enhance their careers, expand their networks, and prepare for the challenges of executive leadership, the Whittemore School’s Executive MBA program offers an unparalleled opportunity. It combines the best of academic learning with the richness of professional experience, creating graduates who are not only successful leaders but also responsible stewards of their organizations and communities.