MBA or EMBA
Which is right for me?
Same Degree, Different Logistics
Wharton offers one MBA degree in two formats: the traditional, full-time MBA in Philadelphia, or the Executive MBA either in San Francisco or Philadelphia or via our Global cohort. Both programs require the same high admissions standards, follow the same rigorous curriculum, and confer the same Wharton degree. The delivery and structure of the programs differ to meet the needs of different student types. The comparison table below details how the two programs are delivered.
| MBA PROGRAM | MBA PROGRAM FOR EXECUTIVES | |
| Length | 20 months, including a 3.5 month summer internship (recommended) | 24 months (Philadelphia and San Francisco) / 22 months (Global) |
| Class Session Length | Year 1: August – May | Year 1: May-May |
| Year 2: September – May | Year 2: June-May (Philadelphia and San Francisco) / June- March (Global) | |
| Weekly Schedule | Monday – Thursday | San Francisco and Philadelphia: Alternate Friday/Saturday weekends with several extended sessions, plus a one-week international trip (Global Business Week). Global: Alternate Thursday/Friday/Saturday (Eastern Time) virtual, synchronous class sessions with eight in-person extended sessions, including two Modular courses and Global Business Week. |
| Total Credit Units | 19.0 | 19.0 |
| Core Curriculum | 9.5 | 10.0 |
| Major | Usually 4.0 in addition to the Core. | 4.0 additional credit units. Not required, but majors and concentrations (3.0 additional credit units) are available. |
| Electives | 5.5 | 9.0. The Wharton MBA Program for Executives offers 120+ elective course options. Elective courses are driven by student interest and are subject to change each year. This allows students to tailor their learning experience based on their goals and interests. Students will choose from this subset of courses, and have the option to take courses in other WEMBA cohorts (pending space availability and faculty approval). |
| Majors and Program Customization | You have a choice from 21 majors. Approximately 40% of students complete their degree with a dual major. | You may pursue a formal major in some departments, but you’re not required to do so. |
| Global Experience | Global Modular Courses, Global Immersion Programs, Leadership Ventures, and student-hosted travel opportunities. | A one-week international trip (Global Business Week) is required. Students can also take part in Global Modular courses when available. Two class sessions outside the U.S. are required for the Global cohort. |
| Entering Class Size | 874 | 280 (Philadelphia, San Francisco, Global combined) |
| GMAT Average | 728 | 711 |
| Average Work Experience | 5 years | 13 years |
| Tuition and Budget | $178,000 (Tuition & Fees only) | $230,100 |
| Housing and Meals | Housing and meals are not included in the tuition. | Total Fee includes tuition, fees, and program-related housing, meals, and ground costs for required Global Business Week. Transportation, airfare for Global Business Week, and parking are not included. This applies for two required Modular Courses for Global cohort students (ground costs covered, transportation not covered). |
| Career Services | One-on-one Career Advising and recruiting services for summer internships and full-time roles through MBA Career Management. | You have access to career counseling, workshops, and career resources through the Office of Career Managment. Internships are not available. Job search services are available for self-sponsored students and others who meet the eligibility requirements. |
| Company Support/Sponsorship | There are no requirements or formal programs for sponsorship, although some companies do sponsor students. | A sponsorship form from your company is required for time away from work. Financial support from your company is also required for Fellows applicants and is encouraged for others. |
| Campus Locations | Philadelphia, with one semester available in San Francisco by application | Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Global |