Frequently Asked Questions

As a physician, why do I need a graduate business degree?

Graduate training in leadership and management is essential for physicians who have — or desire to have — a responsible administrative or leadership role in their organization. Examples include:

  • Group practice chairperson, president or medical director
  • Clinical medical director
  • Hospital or academic department chair
  • Medical chief of staff
  • Chief medical officer
  • Chief medical information officer
  • Hospital or health system board member

The clinical skills of physician leaders are assumed. Their success as leaders, however, invariably depends upon their understanding of modern cost, financial and information management practices and their ability to plan, organize and influence their colleagues. These are the critical skills that form the basis of the APL program.


Can I fit the program into my clinical schedule?

Yes. The program is specifically designed to accommodate physicians’ busy schedules. Each class extends from Saturday morning through Tuesday afternoon and is offered on the UT Dallas campus. A different class is offered every two months, and you may start classes at any time. You are encouraged to take them in sequence to ensure progress toward your degree requirements. Flexibility is important, so we do make arrangements for special circumstances.        

If you elect to earn a Healthcare Management Executive MBA, you will take an additional six online general business classes. These may be started any time before or after beginning the residential classes. If you want to earn both an MS and MBA, we can advise you on the additional three courses required for the double degree as well.


Can I take all my courses online?

No. The APL EMBA degree plan requires the completion of nine four-credit hour residential classes that are held on campus plus six three-credit hour classes held in an online format. The APL program curriculum is composed of healthcare-concentrated coursework with classes taught by industry experts that prepare students to effectively lead in an ever-changing, dynamic healthcare environment. The in-residence classes provide a unique, interactive atmosphere where learners discuss relevant topics in healthcare, analyze case studies, and synthesize concepts for real-world application as physician leaders. Learning alongside peers in a hybrid model of in-residence and online classes provides a rich educational experience unique to the APL program.


When are classes offered?

The full-day residential classes are structured on a rotation cycle and available approximately every 18 months; a different class is generally offered on campus every two months following a Saturday through Tuesday schedule. Online classes are typically offered at least once per year on a set schedule and follow the standard UT Dallas academic calendar. Students enrolled in the APL EMBA degree program have the option to start with either the residential or the online coursework, and courses can be taken in any order.


How long is the program?

The MBA degree program is 54 credit hours and the MS degree program is 36 credit hours. Students typically complete the MBA program in 24 to 36 months and the MS degree program in 18 to 24 months.