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 five in-person extended sessions, two Global Modular courses, and the 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. | Not required. |
Electives | 5.5 | 9.0. Students in the MBA Program for Executives vote to determine the electives offered for their second year. Some Philadelphia and San Francisco students consider taking classes on the opposite coast for one term or even for one course. Philadelphia and San Francisco students can take up to one credit unit of electives with the Global cohort. |
Majors and Program Customization | You have a choice from 18 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 | You can take part in dual-degree programs, study abroad options, Global Modular Courses, and a Global Immersion Program. | A one-week international trip (Global Business Week) is required. Students can also take part in Global Modular courses when available. Two Global Modular Courses are required for the Global cohort. |
Entering Class Size | 877 | 230 (Philadelphia and San Francisco total) + 50 expected for Global |
GMAT Range | 530-790 | 640-760 |
Average Work Experience | 5 years | 12 years |
Tuition and Budget | $169,748 (Tuition & Fees only) | $223,500 (Class of 2025) |
Housing and Meals | Housing and meals are not included in the tuition. | Total Fee includes tuition, fees, books and materials, 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 to two required Global Modular Course for Global cohort students (ground costs covered, transportation not covered). |
Career Services | You have access to on-campus recruiting services for summer internships and permanent positions. You also have access to MBA Career Management. | You have access to career counseling, workshops, and career resources through dedicated MBA Exec Career Services. 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. | An endorsement 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. *Not applicable to Global cohort |
Campus Locations | Philadelphia, with one semester available in San Francisco by application | Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Global |