mba and phd joint program

MBA/PhD with the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The joint-degree program offers an MBA in combination with a PhD in the sciences or humanities from the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

An MBA may be pursued in combination with a PhD in one of a wide array of  areas of study , in the biological sciences, engineering and applied sciences, the humanities, the physical sciences, and social sciences. An MBA/PhD is not available in the  management disciplines .

Students typically complete both degrees in approximately seven years, rather than the eight or more that would be required if the degrees were pursued separately. Programs are highly customized to fit each student's individual course of study, and are generally determined at the time of admission. Students must complete one full year at Yale SOM, during which they complete the integrated MBA curriculum, and one year taking courses at both schools. Students typically begin their full year at Yale SOM after PhD qualifying exams have been passed.

Students receive financial support from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences during the semesters in which they are enrolled there. They pay tuition during the three semesters during which they are enrolled at Yale SOM.

Learn more about admission to the Yale School of Management. Learn more about admission to the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

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Joint and Dual Degrees

Tuck's joint and dual degrees provide additional options for students who wish to customize their education..

Tuck allows students the flexibility to work toward two degrees concurrently in order to tailor their education to their specific interests and career aspirations. In addition to those listed here, you may also design your own specialized degree programs in association with other schools.

For more information on joint and dual degrees contact Tuck's registrar .

Joint Degrees Within Dartmouth College

The Geisel School of Medicine and the Tuck School of Business offer students an opportunity to pursue combined MD/MBA degrees that can be completed in either five or six years. In a time of tremendous change in health care, there is a growing need for leaders with expertise in both medicine and management. This joint-degree program is designed to open pathways for leadership roles in diverse areas and industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotech, health care related entrepreneurial ventures, governmental health programs, health related nonprofits, hospital management, HMO management, large practice management, health care policy formation, and medical school administration, to name a few. Candidates for the joint degree must complete the separate admission and financial aid application processes at both the Geisel School and Tuck. There is no formula for admission to the combined program. Decisions are based on a combination of the following factors: academic excellence, leadership ability, accomplishments, interpersonal skills, and diversity. Although almost all Tuck students have work experience before they enroll, this is not a prerequisite for admission to this joint-degree program. It is recommended that applicants apply to Tuck during their second year at Geisel.

The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (TDI) is dedicated to improving health care through education, research, policy reform, leadership improvement, and communication with patients and the public. TDI's Master of Public Health (MPH) curriculum is designed to provide every student with the fundamental skills, knowledge base, and philosophical foundation in health policy and clinical practice, with specific attention paid to public health, clinical/health services research, or health care leadership. The MPH/MBA joint degree offered with the Tuck School prepares graduates to take on leadership positions in both the public and private sectors of the health care industry.

The PhD/MBA joint degree program offers the unique opportunity for PhD students at Dartmouth College to finish off their training with management education. The joint degree aims to produce individuals who are not only thoroughly trained in a scientific discipline but also possess fundamental business and entrepreneurial skills. The program is currently only available to PhD students at Dartmouth. Students must apply to and be admitted to the MBA program. The PhD experience will be counted as post-bachelors degree work experience. Matriculating students must enter with the regular Tuck class in the fall and complete the required first-year Tuck core curriculum. Students are expected to participate in an internship during the summer between their first and second Tuck years, to reinforce the MBA experience. Courses taken during the PhD program will be counted as the equivalent of one term's worth of electives. While application and admission to the MBA program can occur at any point while enrolled in the PhD program, it's recommended that students apply in the third or fourth year of their program. Students are encouraged to meet with advisors for the PhD/MBA Program, including deans Joe Hall at Tuck, Ian Baker of Thayer, or Kerry Landers of the Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. It is important that PhD students show strong academic ability as well as demonstrated potential for leadership, and they should be able to articulate well why the MBA degree will help them achieve their goals.

Students interested in tailoring their experience to gain both the management skills taught at the Tuck School of Business and the technical skills taught at the Thayer School of Engineering will benefit from this joint degree. This program is intended to develop leaders for careers that combine engineering/technology and business management. It is appropriate for students with an undergraduate degree in, or pre-Tuck experience in, engineering or science. Students can complete both degrees in a total of eight terms (including one summer). Candidates must complete the separate admission and financial aid application processes at each school. It is recommended that applicants apply to Thayer during their first year at Tuck.

Dual Degrees with Other Institutions

The three-year MBA/MA in International Relations dual degree program between the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University and the Tuck School of Business has been designed to prepare students for careers that combine international relations and business management.  The program is particularly appropriate for students who are seeking management positions within international corporations, financial institutions, economic and development institutions and government agencies.  The need is clear for individuals in these positions to have a sophisticated understanding of both international affairs and management issues.

The three-year MBA/MALD dual degree program between the Fletcher School at Tufts University and the Tuck School of Business is also designed to prepare students for careers that combine international relations and business management. The program is particularly appropriate for students who are seeking management positions within international corporations, financial institutions, economic and development institutions and government agencies.  The need is clear for individuals in these positions to have a sophisticated understanding of both international affairs and management issues.  Note: Tuck also has an exchange program with the Fletcher School (see Exchange Programs ).

The MBA/MCEP dual degree with nearby Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS) enables students to earn the two degrees concurrently. Climate change, wildlife protection, and alternative energy are just a few of the critical issues facing the world today. Vermont Law and Graduate School and its Master of Climate and Environmental Policy program are leading the movement to address these issues. The MCEP program gives students a comprehensive knowledge of the policies shaping the solutions to these problems and prepares graduates for leadership positions in the public and private sectors. Experiential learning opportunities with state and federal agencies, advocacy groups, and international organizations ensure that MCEP graduates are prepared for real-world situations the first day on the job. VLGS courses are delivered either on campus or online.

MBA/MPA AND MBA/MPA/ID

The MBA/MPA and MBA/MPA/ID (Master in Public Administration in International Development) dual degrees between the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and the Tuck School of Business are designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of established professionals seeking further leadership responsibilities in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors, and to prepare the next generation of leaders in international development. Dual degree candidates must complete the entire Tuck core curriculum as well as three semesters at the Kennedy School.

The MBA/MPP dual degree between the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and the Tuck School of Business prepares students to understand complex policy problems and to craft concrete solutions. In addition to completing the full-year core curriculum plus two terms at Tuck, MBA/MPP candidates are also required to complete the full-year core curriculum at the Kennedy School, plus one semester (including the Policy Analysis Exercise).  Candidates in this dual degree program can apply their core training, policy interests, and functional skills to roles and organizations across the public and nonprofit sectors.

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PhD/MBA Program

The Wake Forest University PhD/MBA program is dedicated to training and research at the interface between science andbusiness to unleash the power and potential of technology for the benefit of society.

A large proportion of Ph.D. graduates work in the private sector in positions that use the skills acquired during their graduate training. But in addition to the scholarship and rigor that makes the Ph.D. a world model, there is a need for a broader range of skills for success in a changing employment climate. The Wake Forest University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, in conjunction with the  Schools of Business , has initiated an innovative course of study leading to the PhD/MBA. The Wake Forest PhD/MBA program is the first program of its kind in the nation, and the first to produce students with the joint degree (see testimonials from some of our graduates, below).

The World Can Change at the Intersection of Disciplines

Uniting science and management, the PhD/MBA program is preparing a new generation of leaders for the emerging fields of technology. Our mission is focused, providing education and research training leading to beneficial uses for the rapidly emerging discoveries in the sciences, and preparing students for industry or academic leadership. Multidisciplinary knowledge is indispensable in the development of new products and processes and in the translation of biomedical advances to patients and the global market. As the first graduate program in the nation offering management training with the Ph.D., we are dedicated to capturing the brightest minds and providing them with the scientific and management expertise needed to foster the technology infrastructure of the nation.

An Innovative and Efficient Curriculum

The PhD/MBA program is a synthesis of curricula from the Graduate School and the Evening MBA Program of the Schools of Business, with specialized course work and opportunities for industrial and business internships. The joint program is open to new and current students in all PhD-granting programs across all Wake Forest campuses. Students take from 4-6 years to complete the joint program, depending on the nature of the graduate research undertaken in the home program. The first year of the curriculum will provide students with a core base of knowledge in the core competencies of the home graduate program. At the end of the second year, and before beginning MBA course work, the student must take and pass examinations that will admit him/her to candidacy for the PhD. A student enrolling in the PhD/MBA program would have 5-6 semesters of evening MBA courses added to the graduate degree requirements. Opportunities for industrial projects and internships are possible after ascent to PhD candidacy and during the MBA coursework phase. The PhD and MBA degrees will be awarded simultaneously at the completion of all requirements for both degrees.

Apply Online

Students wishing to enroll in the combined program apply to and meet the respective admissions requirements of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the Schools of Business. Admission to the MBA portion of the program occurs separately after gaining admission to the home graduate program, and after securing appropriate approval from the home program for participation in the joint program. In addition to the general requirements of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the  Schools of Business  requires completion of the GMAT (General Management Aptitude Test). The Schools of Business will also accept the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) as a replacement for the GMAT for admissions.

Contact Information

Questions regarding admissions: Mr. Kevin Bender Associate Director, Graduate Admissions School of Business (336) 758-3091 [email protected]

General questions: Dr. Dwayne Godwin Associate Dean Graduate School of Arts and Sciences [email protected]

A Small Program with Big Impact

PhD/MBA students completed an economic impact study of new in silico algorithms used in the drug discovery process. This study contributed to a $2 million grant awarded by the US government to develop computer simulation software designed to predict biological and toxicological effects of drugs, which will reduce the failure rate in the drug development process. Pictured from the left are Donald Debethizy, President and CEO of Targacept, Inc., Randy Jacinto, PhD/MBA graduate; Richard Alexander, PhD/MBA graduate; Dwayne W. Godwin, Ph.D., Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy and Director of the PhD/MBA program; Adam Winseck, PhD/MBA graduate; and William S. Caldwell, Ph.D., Vice President of Drug Discovery and Development, Targacept, Inc. Not pictured is Heather Peters, PhD/MBA student who also worked on the project.

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For a complete list of academic programs and  degree tracks offered, along with contact information, please  click here .

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What the Students Have to Say About the PhD/MBA Program :

“My new job is exactly what I have been looking for. I found that the dual degree is an attractive combination that will allow me to go further, faster.” DR. ADAM WINSECK MEDICAL MARKETING, SANOFI AVENTIS, INC. 2004 NEUROBIOLOGY AND ANATOMY MEDICAL EDUCATION MARKETING

“The fusion of biology and business has provided a unique perspective – like looking at the world from space, it’s easier to see the whole picture. As an aspiring entrepreneur I feel that the skills I learned will amplify my ability to make a difference.” DR. RANDY JACINTO BIORAD, INC. 2004 PHD/MBA GRADUATE MOLECULAR MEDICINE

“Incredible advances can occur where disciplines collide. The PhD/MBA program has given me the tools to pursue a broader career horizon without sacrificing my core scientific interests.” DR. RICHARD ALEXANDER 2004 PHD/MBA GRADUATE PHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY

“The PhD/MBA program prepared me for a career, not just a job. Today I am conducting research with a deeper understanding of how my work supports my organization.” DR. HEATHER PETERS PHD/MBA GRADUATE CHEMISTRY

“Drawing from my management and scientific training in equal measure, I’ve enjoyed the increased level of responsibility and respect that has come with achieving the dual degree.” DR. FRANK WELDER PHD/MBA GRADUATE CHEMISTRY MECHNICAL AND QUALITY DIRECTOR MICROBAC LABORATORIES, INC.

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Postgraduate Programs / Dual MBA/MS + DBA/PhD Program

Introduction.

Students holding a Bachelor degree can apply for a dual degree program whereby they combine an MBA/MS degree with a DBA/PhD degree. The Master program is required to be completed first, with a minimum thesis workload of 12 credits out of a total of 60 credits for the Master program. The Doctoral program can be started immediately after successful presentation of the Master Thesis.

1. choose your Master program

• MBA - Master of Business Administration (60 credits)
• MS - Master of Science in Financial Management (60 credits)
• MS - Master of Science in Human Resource Management (60 credits)
• MS - Master of Science in Marketing Management (60 credits)
• MS - Master of Science in Operations Management (60 credits)

Students who do not hold a business-related Bachelor degree are recommended to enroll for one or more courses from the Pre-Master program upon completion of a general assessment.

2. choose your Doctorate program

• DBA - Doctor of Business Administration (60 credits)
• PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Management (60 credits)

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Flexible study programs.

Our flexible study programs are based on the American model of higher education , allowing students to choose their courses based on program requirements, previous studies, current interests and future ambitions.

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Students can choose between multiple starting dates in the fall, winter, spring and summer of each academic year. Our modular course design and program structure allows for an optimal further education planning.

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Students can transfer between campuses on a quarterly basis with guaranteed program compatibility . Our quarter-based academic calendar allows for a continuous study abroad experience across Europe and Asia.

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Our truly global community of students, faculty and staff, is made up of 85+ different nationalities from around the world, with students showing great appreciation for cultural diversity and entrepreneurial initiative.

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Small class sizes with up to 30 students allow professors to use interactive teaching methods, thereby increasing group interaction, improving group dynamics and building long-lasting connections among students.

Reasons to Join

There's many more reasons to join our programs, so take a look at additional reasons to start your studies at UIBS !

Our alumni work in a variety of positions and across a number of industries. Take a look at where our alumni live, where they work and what they do on our LinkedIn page.

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Dual MBA/MS + DBA/PhD program

Earn an MBA/MS and a DBA/PhD degree at UIBS and develop your leadership potential among like-minded professionals across our campus network.

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Consider alternative programs from our sister institution, European College for Liberal Studies (ECLS), including International Relations.

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"I’ve been able to create long-lasting friendships with international people from all over the world. UIBS has given me all the professional skills and tools I needed to develop in my career." Elvitz, Master Student

"The school is so diverse; you have the possibility to travel the world and change campuses. During the global study trip, so many campuses came together, and even if you don’t know the students, you have something in common and everybody is just one big family." Philip, Bachelor Student

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Dedicated since 2002 to cross-cultural education with a global perspective, United International Business Schools ( UIBS ) is an independent private higher education institution with campuses across Europe and Asia, and Online. UIBS offers flexible business and management studies at the Undergraduate (Bachelor/BBA) and (Post)Graduate ( Master/MBA and Doctor/DBA ) level leading to private (programmatically-accredited) degrees, and to American regionally-accredited and European state-recognized degrees in cooperation with our academic partners. Our sister institution, the European College for Liberal Studies ( ECLS ), offers interdisciplinary liberal and global studies also at the Undergraduate and (Post)Graduate level.

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Wharton MBA Dual Degree Programs

Many wharton mba students choose to extend their education beyond the wharton school. whether it’s an mba for engineers,  a jd/mba, or a dual mba/master of science in nursing, consider customizing your mba experience with one of the mba dual degree or interdisciplinary program options wharton offers with the university of pennsylvania and other schools below., dual degree & joint mba programs.

A dual or joint MBA degree allows students to complement their business education with another area of study. Some students choose to combine their business degree with a professional program, while others combine their business education with another graduate degree in a particular area of interest to hone their expertise. Wharton offers three integrated interdisciplinary MBA programs at the University of Pennsylvania. These programs allow students to draw from different academic disciplines, pursue a variety of interests and become interdisciplinary thinkers who solve problems with both a creative and analytical approach.

MBA/MA Lauder Joint Degree in International Studies

The MBA/MA Lauder Joint Degree in International Studies combines foreign language skills with a passion for international business by integrating the Wharton MBA program with an MA program in international studies from Penn’s School of Arts & Sciences.

The Francis J. & Wm. Polk Carey JD/MBA

The Francis J. & Wm. Polk Carey JD/MBA Program is a fully integrated three-year joint MBA and JD program that combines the Wharton’s top business school program with Penn’s elite law school. This dual JD MBA program is unique in its three-year curriculum, allowing students to earn two degrees from prestigious schools just blocks away from each other at the University of Pennsylvania. As dual JD MBA programs become more popular, this program’s prestige shines more and more.

MBA in Health Care Management

The MBA in Health Care Management provides students with strengths in health economics and a focus in health management. As dual MBA and healthcare programs become more popular, this program has become increasingly competitive.

Partnerships with Other Schools

Wharton offers established dual MBA programs with Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and Harvard Kennedy School.

Wharton + School of Advanced International Studies Dual Degree

This three-year, MA/MBA dual degree program, offered by Wharton and the School of Advanced International Studies  (SAIS) of The Johns Hopkins University in Washington, D.C., prepares students to operate in both business and the international political environment. Students earn an MBA from Wharton and an MA in international relations from SAIS, a program that pioneered area studies and the integration of international politics and economics. While in Washington, students have access to Washington’s resources and to leaders in foreign policy and international trade.

Applicants must begin the Wharton part of their program in Pre-Term, and conferral of each degree is contingent upon completion of all requirements for the other program. Students with less preparation in their chosen field of study or in their language requirement may need additional time to complete the SAIS degree. Requests to spend Year 1 at SAIS will also be considered.

Applicants should apply within the cycle directly preceding the year they would like to begin at Wharton. All requests for deferral will be considered within Wharton’s deferral policy.

Wharton + Harvard Kennedy School MPA/MBA and MPP/MBA Dual Degrees

These three-year, dual-degree programs, offered by Wharton and the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) prepare students to operate in both business and public policy or public administration fields. For students with an interest in crafting solutions for public problems across business, government, policy, and more, the dual degree MBA in public policy may be the path for you.

The dual degree option with Wharton allows students to complete the HKS portion of their dual degree over three semesters. The below shows the pathway for students completing the MPA degree where they split the second year between the schools. The MPA/MBA dual degree, MPA/ID and MPP pathways differ in that they require a full year at each school with the third year split between the two.

• The  Master in Public Administration (MPA)  prepares its graduates for positions of significant responsibility in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors. The program’s curriculum lends itself to individual tailoring with guidance from HKS faculty and administrators.
• Geared to the future leaders in the field of international development, the  Master in Public Administration/International Development (MPA/ID)  is an economics-centered, multidisciplinary program, combining analytical and quantitative methods with an emphasis on policy and practice.
• The  Master in Public Policy (MPP) equips future leaders with a conceptual framework and the specific skills they will need to be successful in public service. The initial emphasis of the curriculum is on building a strong conceptual foundation for analysis, management, and advocacy. This MBA/MPP dual degree program is a good option for students interested in working in politics or government.  

Applicants must fill out applications to both schools during the first year at either school or simultaneously before enrolling at either school. The two degrees may not be completed sequentially. Conferral of each degree is contingent upon completion of all requirements for the other program. Applicants should apply to Wharton during the application cycle directly preceding their desired Wharton start date. All requests for deferral will be considered within Wharton’s deferral policy.

13+ Dual Degree and Interdisciplinary Programs at Wharton

You can combine your MBA with a degree from one of University of Pennsylvania’s top-rated graduate and professional schools. Listed below are some of the fully integrated programs available to students considering a dual MBA and another degree at the University of Pennsylvania.

Applying for a Dual MBA Degree Program

You can apply for one of the dual-degree programs if you are a current first-year student at one of our partner schools (except any of the Medical Sciences programs, which have different application guidelines) or you plan to pursue the first year of the dual degree at Wharton.

Candidates interested in applying to any other graduate program at Penn not listed above must apply to both programs separately and contact the other  program office for details on their courses. The Wharton MBA will be expected to be completed on a full-time basis, like all other degree candidates, with up to 4 courses being allowed to be taken at other Penn graduate schools.

Please review the specific application processes and requirements for joint and dual degrees.

Dual Degree FAQs

What is the difference between an mba and masters degree.

An MBA is a Master of Business Administration degree. It’s a specific designation of a master’s degree course of study.

Am I able to apply to the Lauder Program after I have started the Wharton MBA Program?

The academic calendar for first-year students in the Lauder Program begins in May. Students that have been accepted to the Wharton MBA Program in Round 1 or Round 2 can apply separately to the Lauder Program and still will be expected to start the program in May. Students cannot apply to the Lauder Program after they have started their first or second years at Wharton. For more information about applying to the Lauder Program, please visit the Lauder website or contact [email protected] .

Can I combine the Lauder Program with a degree program other than the Wharton MBA?

The Lauder Institute also offers a joint JD/MA program in partnership with Penn Law. For more information about the Lauder JD/MA, please visit this website .

Is Health Care Management a major or a separate health care program?

Health Care Management (HCM) is one of the 19 majors offered through the Wharton MBA Program. The Health Care Management major differs from other majors in that students must select this major at the time of application to Wharton. HCM integrates academic and professional development, helping students to obtain summer and permanent positions in all parts of the health care sector, including consulting firms, health care venture capital and private equity, digital health, health care analytics firms, biotechnology, pharmaceutical firms, hospitals, insurers, and government agencies. If prospective students wish to explore the Health Care Management major, the HCM department is happy to arrange either a telephone conversation or a meeting with June Kinney, the Associate Director of HCM. Please find more information on the application process here .

If I am not accepted into the Health Care Management major, can I still be admitted to Wharton?

Your application will be evaluated specifically for the Health Care Management major. If the Admissions Committee feels you are not best suited for HCM but could be a good fit for the MBA program more broadly, you will be considered for Wharton.

If I am admitted to a dual degree program with the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) or the School of Advanced Studies (SAIS), can I start my degree at HKS or SAIS instead of Wharton?

Applicants should apply to Wharton during the application cycle directly preceding their desired Wharton start date. If you are admitted to both programs and do not want to begin at Wharton, you will need to request a deferral and will be subject to our deferral policy. Deferrals typically are only granted for extenuating circumstances.

Are there any dual degree programs that will not allow me to start at Wharton?

The School of Design requires all dual degree students to start at Penn Design. The Harvard Kennedy School encourages students interested in the MPA/ID dual degree to start at HKS.

If I want to apply to a dual degree program, do I have to apply to the Wharton MBA Program and the other program separately?

Unless otherwise noted on the Interdisciplinary Programs website, you must submit separate applications and materials to both programs. Some schools will have strict application requirements around testing, recommendations, and essays. Please follow the admissions requirements for each individual school.

Are admissions decisions for dual degree programs made by one committee?

Applicants to the Lauder Joint MBA/MA in International Studies, the Francis J. & Wm. Polk Carey JD/MBA Program, and the MBA in Health Care Management will receive one joint decision. For all other MBA dual degree programs, you will receive separate decisions, and it is possible that you could be admitted to one program and not the other.

Can I create my own dual degree with a school not listed on the website?

We cannot accept any credits from other programs. You can pursue another program in your own time, but you would still be required to complete all Wharton credit units as prescribed by the full-time MBA program. As a full-time MBA student, you are expected to be at Wharton and pay tuition for four full semesters.

How do I learn more about a graduate program not listed on the Wharton Interdisciplinary Programs website?

If you are interested in other programs not listed on the website, please contact the program office of that respective program.

How many credit units can I take at other Penn graduate schools while a Wharton MBA student?

All Wharton MBA students can take four to six credit units at other Penn graduate schools .

Can I apply to a dual degree program after starting at Wharton?

For most dual degree programs, you can apply to the other program during your first year at Wharton. However, this may extend your time at Penn.

Can I connect with a current student that is a part of a specific dual degree program?

Due to the volume of such requests, we are unable to connect prospective students with current students in every dual degree program. Please review the profiles of our Admissions Fellows and request to be connected with a current MBA student who most closely aligns with your interests.

What if I want to pursue a degree beyond the master’s level at Penn?

Please speak with the PhD department of your interest if you intend to continue your studies beyond the master’s level.

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