Individualized Major, MBA

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Pennsylvania

Program Overview

The Individualized Major at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School gives MBA students the opportunity to design a major around their own academic interests and career ambitions. It is particularly suitable for students whose goals do not fit within Wharton's existing specialisations, allowing them to combine courses from different business disciplines to develop expertise in a specific area, explore interdisciplinary interests, and prepare for specialised leadership roles.

Curriculum Structure

The MBA follows a two-year structure across four academic semesters. Unlike traditional majors with a fixed list of specialised subjects, the Individualized Major allows students to propose their own academic theme, course selection, and major title, provided the plan meets Wharton's approval requirements.

Year 1

The first year focuses on building a strong foundation in business and management while helping students identify the subject areas they want to explore in greater depth. Core courses include Fundamentals of Financial Accounting, Corporate Finance, Microeconomics for Managers, Macroeconomics and the Global Economic Environment, Marketing Management, and Foundations of Teamwork and Leadership. Students also study subjects such as Business Analytics, Regression Analysis for Business, and Responsibility in Global Management, developing the financial, analytical, communication, and leadership skills needed to shape their proposed specialisation.

Year 2

In the second year, students focus more closely on their approved Individualized Major by completing courses that support their chosen interdisciplinary theme. They must select five course units of Wharton courses for the major and can use electives to explore related subjects across different business disciplines. Depending on the approved study plan, students may combine areas such as finance, management, entrepreneurship, business analytics, sustainability, international business, and technology to develop a distinctive area of expertise. The proposed major must be reviewed and approved by MBA Academic Affairs and a standing faculty member in the relevant field.

Focus Areas

Interdisciplinary business studies, strategic management, finance, business analytics, entrepreneurship, organisational leadership, international business, technology management, sustainability, corporate governance, innovation, business economics, and specialised management topics based on the student's approved academic plan.

Learning Outcomes

Develop expertise in a self-designed area of business; combine knowledge from different business disciplines; apply financial and analytical methods to business challenges; develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills; understand complex organisational and market environments; design an academic pathway aligned with professional goals; strengthen leadership and decision-making abilities; communicate business ideas effectively; and apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-world business challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Individualized Major is part of the Wharton MBA programme and is STEM-designated. Students develop a specialised academic pathway by combining approved courses from relevant business disciplines.

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

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Wharton MBA Employment Report – Class of 2025:

Job Offers: 90.5% of graduates seeking employment received full-time job offers.
Job Acceptances: 87% of graduates seeking employment accepted job offers.
Median Annual Salary: USD 185,000 for full-time MBA graduates.
Employer Network: More than 650 companies made employment offers to Wharton MBA students.
Career Flexibility: 53.1% of graduates changed both their industry and job function after completing their MBA.
Popular Employment Sectors: Consulting, financial services, technology, healthcare, private equity, and investment banking.

These figures represent the overall Wharton MBA graduating class, not exclusively students pursuing the Individualized Major.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Pennsylvania, the MBA in Individualized Major program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for success in today’s dynamic business environment. Students engage in hands-on experiences that allow them to apply what they learn in real-world settings, enhancing their understanding and preparing them for leadership roles. The program leverages a variety of state-of-the-art facilities and resources to ensure that students gain the practical skills they need.

Here are some key experiential learning opportunities and resources available to MBA students in the Individualized Major program:

- Wharton Innovation Fund: Access to funding for student-led ventures, allowing you to turn your ideas into reality.
- Field Application Projects: Collaborate with companies on real business challenges, applying your skills to solve complex problems.
- Wharton Research Data Services (WRDS): Utilize this comprehensive data platform for research and analysis, giving you access to a wealth of financial, economic, and marketing data.
- Leadership Ventures: Participate in immersive experiences that develop leadership skills through outdoor challenges and team-building exercises.
- Internship Opportunities: Gain practical experience through internships with leading companies, enhancing your resume and professional network.
- Wharton’s Entrepreneurship Programs: Engage with resources like the Penn Wharton Entrepreneurship program, which offers workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
- Access to Libraries: Benefit from the extensive resources of the Penn Libraries, including specialized business collections and research support.
- Collaboration Spaces: Utilize dedicated spaces for group projects and brainstorming sessions, fostering collaboration and innovation among peers.
- Field Trips: Participate in organized visits to companies and organizations, providing insights into industry practices and networking opportunities.

These resources and experiences are designed to ensure that you not only learn but also apply your knowledge in meaningful ways. The combination of rigorous academic training and practical application makes the MBA in Individualized Major at the University of Pennsylvania a unique opportunity for aspiring business leaders.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MBA in Individualized Major at the University of Pennsylvania equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in diverse fields, leading to impressive career outcomes. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, and Product Development Specialist. This program not only fosters critical thinking and innovation but also prepares students for leadership positions in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Here’s how the University of Pennsylvania supports your journey toward success:

- Career Services: The Wharton School offers dedicated career services, including personalized coaching, resume workshops, and networking events with industry leaders.
- Employment Statistics: Recent graduates report a 95% employment rate within three months of graduation, with average starting salaries exceeding $100,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The university has strong ties with leading companies such as Goldman Sachs, Google, and Johnson & Johnson, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects.
- Accreditation Value: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring a high standard of education recognized globally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to hold influential positions in Fortune 500 companies, startups, and non-profit organizations, showcasing the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MBA in Individualized Major, students have the opportunity to pursue further studies, such as a Ph.D. in Business Administration or specialized certifications in areas like Data Analytics or Entrepreneurship. This pathway allows for deeper exploration of specific interests and can enhance career prospects even further.

Choosing the MBA in Individualized Major at the University of Pennsylvania is not just about earning a degree; it's about setting the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.