Wharton Stories: Curriculum

Prof. Kent Smetters in conversation with former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan at Perry World House in 2019 (Image Credit: Wharton Alumni Magazine)
“We teach you how to think critically, how to use data effectively, and how to adapt. That way, when your industry shifts — and it will — you’ll have the knowledge and skills required to innovate and lead the way forward,” says Prof. Kent Smetters.

Prof. Kent Smetters Challenges EMBA Students to Think Like Economists

Wharton EMBA students in Milan for GBW. (Image Credit: Meg Chiodo)
“[This class] is a prime example of why I chose Wharton: learning, applying, and connecting on a global scale,” says James Brown III, WG’26.

Wharton’s Global Business Week: Expanding Horizons, Building Connections

Rothbard and Nurmohamed with Wharton EMBA students enjoying cake after completing an electric car simulation (Credit: Serenity Lee)
“This course anchors Orientation Week — a critical period that sets expectations, builds momentum, and begins the process of transformation,” says Deputy Dean Nancy Rothbard.

Transforming Leadership and Teamwork: Strategic Success in Wharton’s Executive MBA

Julie Zhao, WG’25, and Clement Lee, WG’24, in Antarctica (Credit: Matthew Wellens)
“That wasn’t just a Wharton highlight—it was a life highlight. It was a leadership journey that made me see myself differently,” says Julie Zhao, WG’25, of her experience in Wharton’s Leadership Venture in Antarctica.

Conquering Motherhood, a Startup, and Seven Continents at Wharton

Sona Sundaramurthy with classmates in Bangkok
“I really appreciate the global diversity within the cohort. Class discussions bring in unique perspectives from various industries, markets, and countries around the world, which enriches the learning experience,” says Sona Sundaramurthy, WG’25.

Student Journeys: Exploring Wharton’s Global Cohort Experience

Wharton Global Cohort students in Berlin and Bangkok. Credit: Wharton Alumni Magazine
Members of Wharton’s first Global Executive MBA cohort reflect on their academic journeys and the opportunities the program’s hybrid design unlocked for them.

Education Without Borders

Group of students posing for a photo with a Wharton banner in front of the British Museum in London
How some students build their leadership, academic, and professional experiences by going even further into the classroom.

From Student to Teaching Assistant: Same Class, Different Takeaways

Sarela Herrada, WG'25, and her cofounder/husband Matt Cohen in a farmer’s field in Peru. Credit: SIMPLi
“Wharton has broadened my perspective, strengthened my knowledge, and challenged me to think differently,” says Sarela Herrada, WG’25.

Balancing Entrepreneurship, School, and Parenthood While Scaling a Global Business

Students in line with luggage at an airport
Wharton students share their experiences traveling abroad on four short-term programs offered by Penn.

Unlocking the World: Global Learning Opportunities

A virtual meeting with a diverse group of eight individuals displayed in a grid format, each in their own frame. Some people appear to be smiling, and one person is giving a thumbs-up gesture.
“The nonprofit sector is a major part of the global economy. This course gives students the chance to gain practical experience and fill in a missing piece of the puzzle for those interested in social impact,” says David Rhode.

Wharton Launches Social Impact Practicum for EMBA Students