Study groups are teams of 5 - 7 Executive MBA students who study together and support each other as they manage careers, home lives, and school. The program designs each group to bring together students with diverse perspectives, educational backgrounds, careers, and life experiences. In addition to helping students learn more effectively and efficiently, study groups provide valuable networking opportunities.

Students benefit from the Carlson School's close ties to the business community. Leaders of industry, government, and nonprofit organizations are invited to speak at Friday leadership luncheons and domestic residency kick-off dinners. Recent guest speakers have included:

• Susan Engel, Chairman & CEO, Lenox Group
• Brad Anderson, Vice Chairman & CEO, Best Buy Co.
• James Lawrence, EVP & CFO, General Mills
• Walter F. Mondale, former Vice President & Senior Counsel, Dorsey & Whitney
• M. Nazie Eftekhari, CEO, HealthEZ

At the Carlson School, a global perspective is an integral part of every class. Executive MBA students spend 4 semesters studying with one of the best groups of international scholars in the world. The international residency prepares students for the challenges and realities of emerging and mature global markets, while the Board of Overseers serves as a valuable networking and career resource for faculty, alumni, and students.

The school's Global Executive MBA programs offer remarkable educational opportunities for executives abroad. Each program is the product of a strategic partnership with a highly respected business school and brings together cutting-edge research and top faculty from around the world.

A "Virtual" Team project is completed through the International Management course in the final semester of the program, which connects teams of students from the Carlson School’s Global Executive MBA programs in China, Poland and Austria. Working together on a global project on international market entry, students come together at the Carlson School at the conclusion of the project for team presentations and networking.

The Carlson School is one of the few business schools that offers career coaches who work exclusively with Part-Time and Executive MBA students. Along with one-on-one career counseling and resume reviews, coaches advise students on job promotions and transitions within their organizations. Coaches also lead workshops on subjects such as negotiation, developing a more effective management style, and leveraging an MBA. The service is available to current students and alumni.

The Graduate Career Business Center offers a wide range of services and programs to help students succeed on their career path. Through the center, students can also contact alumni who are willing to discuss career options and strategies.

Executive MBA graduates join an active alumni network that spans the globe. The alumni council advises the program, assists with recruiting, supports students, and connects with other alumni. The council also sponsors social events, leads sessions for new student orientations and residencies, and helps prepare students for the international residency.