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EMBA and Full-Time MBA Comparison Grid

The Wharton executive MBA program is the full Wharton MBA. The table below highlights the key similarities between the two Wharton MBA programs, including academic qualification and selectivity, program length, core curriculum, credit requirements, and faculty and classroom experience. It also outlines some of the differences, such as class schedule, career experience, and lifestyle choice.

See Compare the Wharton MBA/EMBA Programs for a more detailed comparison.

Wharton EMBA Format

Wharton MBA Full-Time Format
Length 24 months
Classes run throughout the summer
Year 1: May - May
Year 2: May - May graduation
 20 months
3.5 month summer internship period
Year 1: Aug. Pre-term + Sept. - May
Year 2: Sept. - May graduation
Class Schedule Classes meet alternate weekends on Friday/Saturday, with several extended sessions and a one-week international study trip. Classes meet Monday-Thursday throughout the traditional school year.
Curriculum
Total Course Units 19.25 19.00
Core curriculum11.2510.0
Electives 8.0 4.0
Major The program concentrates on a general management foundation with the opportunity to pursue subjects of interest in greater depth through electives. 5.0
Special Features
Learning Teams Yes (assigned first-year learning teams) Yes (assigned first-year learning teams)
Leadership Course Yes (required) Yes (required)
Field Application Yes (required) Yes (optional)
International Study International Study Seminar with 1-week overseas trip (required) Dual-degree programs, Study abroad options, Global Immersion program (optional)
Independent Study Option available Option available
Faculty Classes taught by Wharton standing and associated faculty. Faculty fly to San Francisco to teach at the Wharton West Campus. Classes taught by Wharton standing and associated faculty in Philadelphia.
Careers
  • Are typically further along in career, often on track for advancement to senior management. Some younger but highly qualified "fast-track" candidates also sponsered by companies.
  • Value "real-time" application - bringing MBA knowledge to current work issues.
  • Seek new skills and exposure for long-term career goals, but specific major and internship experience not needed.
  • Are often looking to make an immediate career change or seeking broader expertise for career advancement.
  • Value opportunity to focus on MBA coursework and extended MBA experience, both on and off campus.
  • Seek a summer internship experience as chance to gain specific skills and new company or industry exposure.
Lifestyle Choice
  • Prefer schedule that allows for continueing career. Can balance heavy course load in addition to work and family.
  • Can travel to Philadelphia or San Francisco on alternate weekends; no need to relocate.
  • Prefer to devote time to study and related extracurricular program activities.
  • Must relocate to Philadelphia area for the two-year program.