UNLV's College of Business recently welcomed the inaugural class of its new executive master's of business administration (EMBA) program. The program, which is designed for business executives and professionals, is the first of its kind to be offered by an institution of higher learning in Nevada.

"The EMBA program is designed to enhance business leadership skills by creating synergy between a state-of-the-art management curriculum and a cohort of experienced professionals," said Nasser Daneshvary, associate dean and director of MBA programs at UNLV. "As a flagship among executive education programs, it will be a significant contributor to the economic development and economic diversity of the region."

The 21 students who comprise the inaugural class represent a diverse group of industries, including software technology, entertainment, manufacturing, government, banking, health care services, construction, and industry. The class includes physicians, engineers, vice presidents, chief executive officers, politicians, and public and private administrators. The average EMBA student at UNLV is 40 years old and has 15 years of professional experience, including 11 years of managerial responsibility.

During the 18-month program, students will attend classes 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. every other Friday and Saturday. Classes will vary from one to four weeks in length and carry 2-3 credits each. The 43-credit program also includes an international trip, during which students will have the opportunity to study aspects of a country's economy, culture, government, and society.

For more information about the new EMBA program, or any of the degree programs in the College of Business, call (702) 895-3655.