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If that doesn’t sound like a typical profile for a college class of 20, it’s not. Those numbers apply to the first class of students pursuing a joint UofL-University of Kentucky executive master of business administration degree.

The , the only one of its kind in the state, is aimed at preparing mid-level executives for senior leadership. UofL and UK officials have said it will boost the state’s business climate by offering an advanced education to emerging leaders who might otherwise leave Kentucky.

Classes in the 17-month program start Monday at UofL. Students will first do a one-week residency at UofL before attending weekend classes at UofL and UK on alternating terms.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer is scheduled to speak at 7 p.m. Saturday at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium during a weekend orientation session for incoming students.

Program officials said they are encouraged about the caliber of the students in the first class.

“These executives have a lot of workplace experience at high levels,” said Joe Labianca, who directs the Don and Cathy Jacobs Executive ����ֱ�� Center at UK’s Gatton College of Business and Economics. “They will set a high standard for this program.”

Rohan Christie-David, interim dean of UofL’s College of Business, agreed.

“The EMBA program is getting off to a good start,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see the interest and enthusiasm for this degree.”