traditional Master's programs vs Executive Master's programs

[Nico Corr]

I've been looking in to numerous IR Master's programs and plan to apply to two or three "traditional". I have also recently been looking at Executive Master's programs as well. From what I have gathered from talking to Admissions folks from these programs, they are much more hands on with students, offer evening classes and are more receptive to taking in students who have a dearth of experience in their policy areas. I have specifically targeted SAIS' and GW Elliott's Executive Programs. Do the executive programs defer in any way from "traditional" programs in any way besides the type of students they cater to? Do employers take them as seriously as a traditional Master's program?