I would ideally like to transition into the renewable energy space after completing my EMBA. I have some academic background in this area (but not STEM), and a little work experience from over a decade ago, but nothing recent. One of the schools I'm considering has optional specializations that can be added at the end of the program, for an additional fee, and one of these is in energy and the environment. My initial thought was that this would be a good way to potentially network with people in the field, while also signalling my commitment to this transition. However, it appears very few students actually end up taking these specializations in any given year, I was able to be put in contact with one recent alumni who completed the concentration, and his view going into it was the same as mine, however he ended up taking an opportunity in an unrelated field upon finishing the degree. Many others seem to initially plan on taking a concentration, but by the time they finish the degree change their mind, which leads me to think that this option is maybe not all that valuable?

The rareness of EMBA specialisations suggests that they are not so valuable.

Thanks Duncan. That helps me get a little closer to making a decision.

Depends on your goals. If you think that that specialization would look good to the recruiters you'll be targeting, then look more closely at it.

EMBA programs don't often offer specializations because usually, people at this stage in their careers, they are not looking to transition into a new industry / function - that's in contrast to those who attend full-time MBA programs, many of whom want to make big career jumps and because of that are open to delving deep in an area through a specialization.