The Value & ROI of a Wharton MBA
A Wharton MBA equips you with the business expertise and leadership skills necessary to achieve your career goals. Consistently ranked among the top programs for full-time job placements and 20-year earnings, Wharton offers an exceptional return on investment. The greatest value of a Wharton MBA lies in the powerful network you gain. As a Wharton graduate, you immediately connect with over 100,000 alumni—professionals who are continually networking, mentoring, and learning.
When is an MBA Worth It?
A full-time MBA program is a smart investment for an early-career professional who wants to tackle big challenges but needs to hone their vision, enhance or build a new skill set, and broaden their network. No matter the state of the market, business schools offer students a multitude of career options. To get a better understanding of what makes each school unique, we recommend researching the alumni network, curriculum, class size, faculty, and research centers. Above all, the best way to become familiar with a school is to talk to a student or advisor at an information session, on-campus, or virtual event.
How Much Could an MBA Increase Your Salary?
An MBA from Wharton significantly boosts earning potential, with graduates from the Class of 2024 achieving a median base salary of $175,000 in their first year. Across industries, Wharton MBAs enjoy competitive compensation, with top roles in consulting, finance, and technology offering salaries well above the national average. This rapid return on investment reflects the immediate impact of a Wharton MBA on career growth and earnings potential.
For more detailed career statistics, download the MBA Career Report.
The Value of a Wharton MBA in Today’s Market
It is nearly impossible to calculate the total return on investment of an MBA degree. In addition to increased earning potential and career opportunities, there are countless, less quantifiable benefits of the two-year, full-time experience. Most significantly, you are bound to meet and engage with hundreds of classmates and faculty that will challenge your worldview, help you discover strengths and weaknesses, and open your mind to brand new ways of thinking. These relationships will stay with you for a lifetime.
Wharton has earned a global reputation by educating the best minds in business for over a century. Our identity was forged by founder Joseph Wharton, who had a vision for a business school that focused on rigorous analysis, actionable knowledge, and responsible leadership. You will become a part of that vision by:
Expanding Your Business Leadership Skills
Wharton’s research and curriculum are focused on driving productivity, growth and social progress. The students and alumni you will be exposed to throughout your education and career cannot compare to other programs.
Harnessing the Power of Data
Wharton’s reputation as “the finance school” is well earned. The rigorous and relevant data analysis that drives Wharton Finance is true of the entire School. Wharton analytics fuels data-driven decision making, helping you to become a visionary and pragmatic business leader in any career you choose.
Fueling Your Entrepreneurship
Wharton faculty, students and alumni turn great ideas into scalable and sustainable businesses. Our disciplined approach challenges concepts, focuses ideas and provides the know-how to turn fledgling businesses into strong, enduring organizations.
Growing Your Global Reach
Wharton’s footprint and impact continue to grow around the world; providing immersive experiences across six continents; helping to establish three business schools in Asia; and opening the Penn Wharton China Center in Beijing.
Participating in the Future of Business Education
Wharton’s commitment extends well beyond your time on campus. Lifelong learning means you get access to the skills and network you need throughout your career.