Business Economics & Public Policy, MBA

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Pennsylvania

Program Overview

The Business Economics & Public Policy major at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School is designed for MBA students who want to understand how economic decisions, government policies, and market forces shape the business world. The programme combines economics, business strategy, public policy, and financial analysis, helping students understand how companies respond to regulations, competition, technological changes, and international economic developments. It is particularly suitable for students interested in careers in business consulting, economic analysis, public policy, government, financial services, and corporate strategy.

Curriculum Structure

The MBA follows a two-year structure across four academic semesters. Students complete Wharton's core business curriculum alongside specialised Business Economics & Public Policy courses and electives that allow them to explore economic issues affecting businesses, governments, and consumers.

Year 1

The first year builds a strong foundation in business management, economics, finance, accounting, marketing, and leadership. Students study subjects such as Microeconomics for Managers: Foundations, Microeconomics for Managers: Advanced Applications, Corporate Finance, Fundamentals of Financial Accounting, Macroeconomics and the Global Economic Environment, and Marketing Management. They also develop analytical and decision-making skills through courses such as Business Analytics and Regression Analysis for Business, learning how market conditions, consumer behaviour, and economic policies influence business decisions.

Year 2

In the second year, students deepen their understanding of economic policy and its impact on businesses through four course units from the approved BEPP curriculum. Courses such as Behavioral Economics, Markets and Public Policy, Housing Markets, Climate Risks and Opportunities, Energy Markets and Policy, Climate and Financial Markets, American Public Policy through an Economic Lens, Urban Fiscal Policy, and Economic Globalization: Policy, History and Contemporary Issues help students examine competition, government regulation, international trade, environmental challenges, and financial markets. Students can also explore Risk Management and Advanced Study Projects to strengthen their ability to evaluate economic risks, conduct research, and develop practical solutions to complex business and policy challenges.

Focus Areas

Business economics, public policy, microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic globalisation, government regulation, competition policy, behavioural economics, energy markets, climate finance, housing markets, urban economics, risk management, international trade, financial markets, and economic development.

Learning Outcomes

Understand how economic policies influence business decisions; analyse market competition and consumer behaviour; evaluate the impact of government regulations on businesses; apply economic principles to corporate decision-making; assess international trade and globalisation challenges; understand financial and energy markets; evaluate economic risks and investment opportunities; analyse public policies using economic models; develop strategies for businesses operating in changing regulatory environments; and apply economic research to real-world business and policy challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Business Economics & Public Policy major is part of the MBA programme offered by the Wharton School. Its curriculum combines economic analysis, business strategy, public policy, finance, and quantitative research to prepare students for roles involving business decision-making and policy evaluation.

The Wharton School holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation body for business education. The BEPP major is not a separate professional certification or independently accredited degree.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Wharton MBA Employment Report – Class of 2025:

Median Annual Salary: USD 185,000 for full-time MBA graduates.
Consulting and Strategy: Median annual salary of USD 183,976.
Investment Banking: Median annual salary of USD 180,982.
Business Development: Median annual salary of USD 171,989.
Employment Opportunities: Graduates pursue careers across consulting firms, financial institutions, multinational companies, government-related organisations, and economic research organisations.
Employer Network: Wharton's MBA graduates are recruited by organisations across consulting, financial services, technology, healthcare, and other major industries.

These employment opportunities and salary figures represent the overall Wharton MBA graduating class, not exclusively Business Economics & Public Policy majors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Pennsylvania, the MBA in Business Economics & Public Policy program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage directly with real-world challenges and develop solutions that can impact businesses and communities. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students are well-equipped to apply their learning in meaningful ways.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Wharton Research Data Services (WRDS): Gain access to a comprehensive data platform that provides a wealth of financial, economic, and marketing data for research and analysis.

- Field Projects: Collaborate with local organizations and businesses on real-world projects, applying your classroom knowledge to solve pressing issues in the community.

- Internships: Benefit from a strong network of corporate partners that offer internship opportunities, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in various sectors related to business economics and public policy.

- The Wharton Behavioral Lab: Engage in research that explores decision-making processes, providing insights into consumer behavior and policy impacts.

- The Penn Institute for Urban Research: Participate in initiatives that focus on urban policy and economic development, giving you a chance to work on projects that shape cities and communities.

- Group Projects and Case Competitions: Work collaboratively with peers on case studies and competitions that challenge you to think critically and strategically about business and policy issues.

- Access to Libraries and Research Centers: Utilize the extensive resources of the Penn Libraries, including specialized collections and research support tailored to business and public policy studies.

- Networking Events and Workshops: Attend events that connect you with industry leaders, alumni, and experts in the field, enhancing your professional network and career prospects.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enrich your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in business economics and public policy.

Embarking on this journey at the University of Pennsylvania will empower you to make a significant impact in your field. I encourage you to apply and take the next step toward your future!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MBA in Business Economics & Public Policy at the University of Pennsylvania opens doors to a wealth of opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in influential roles such as Policy Analyst, Economic Consultant, and Public Affairs Manager. The skills and knowledge gained here empower students to make significant impacts in both the public and private sectors.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Wharton School offers dedicated career services, including personalized coaching, networking events, and access to exclusive job fairs that connect students with top employers in the field.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the MBA program have an impressive employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within three months of graduation. The average starting salary for MBA graduates is around $150,000, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this area.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Pennsylvania has strong ties with leading organizations and government agencies, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market and is recognized globally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold leadership positions in Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, showcasing the diverse paths available to graduates.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MBA, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy or Economics, which can lead to academic positions or advanced research roles. Alternatively, you could consider specialized certifications in areas like data analytics or public administration to enhance your expertise and career prospects.

The University of Pennsylvania provides a robust foundation for your future, equipping you with the skills and connections necessary to thrive in your career.