Executive Program in Work-Based Learning Leadership
Frequently Asked Questions By Topic
I have a master's degree; can I apply to the doctoral program only?
Pursuit of the doctorate requires completion of the full program (all 6 course blocks) for all candidates, whether or not you already possess a master's degree. The curriculum has been designed as a complete program of study for doctoral candidates.
Can I earn both a master's degree and a doctoral degree?
Yes. Students can enter the program regardless of whether or not they have a master's degree. The degree allows them to earn a master's degree through this program by taking three course blocks and completing a master's thesis. After completing a master's thesis, students may apply for doctoral candidacy.
What degree will I earn after completing the masters program?
Students completing the Master's program will earn an M.S. Ed; Masters in Education from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.
What degree will I earn after completing the doctoral program?
Students completing the Doctoral degree will earn an Doctorate in Education (EdD) from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.
Will I be a University of Pennsylvania Alumni?
Students who earn their Master's and/or Doctoral degrees will be alumni of the University of Pennsylvania and the Graduate School of Education.
When is the application deadline?
There are a limited number of openings for the cohort starting in Fall 2009, and the next application deadline is scheduled for February 15, 2009. For subsequent application deadlines, please contact a Karen Fiala at +1.215.573.5434 (Worldwide).
What is the application fee?
There is no application fee.
What professional experience should successful candidates have?
Prospective students are expected to have five to 10 years of professional experience in human resources or training and development. Their career or near-term future position will be as a chief learning officer or directly involved in the strategic development of the training and development/talent management function of an organization.
More information on the application process, including downloadable applications, is available by clicking here.
Can I enter this program in any semester?
Yes, the course blocks can be taken in any sequence.
Are any exams required for the application?
The GRE is not required for admission to the program. However, the admissions committee reserves the right to request your GRE scores as additional admissions criteria. You may elect to submit scores from the exam if you have previously taken it.
Can I attend one course block per year?
Yes. There will be three course blocks offered each year; you may enroll in all three or fewer, depending on your availability.
How much time will I be spending on this program?
The program is comprised of five discrete course blocks; each course block will cover between five to ten topic modules. Typical class time will include 12 days on campus, 6-10 hours of online time, 10-15 hours preparing for classes, and 20-40 hours on follow-up assignments.
Can I earn a certificate via distance education?
No. Each certificate consists of a course block and includes two non-consecutive weeks on campus, separated by a series of virtual classroom meetings and assignments.
The $20,000 fee includes lodging and meals. Does that part of the fee apply since I am local and may not need lodging?
The fee is all-inclusive and cannot be broken out into different components. This is the case for all of GSE and Wharton's executive programs. We cannot offer a discounted fee for those not taking advantage of the lodging option. (Please note that tuition and fees are subject to University of Pennsylvania trustees' approval.)
How much will it cost to earn the Masters in Education?
The Masters can be earned after taking three course blocks and completing a thesis. The cost will be $64,000, $60,000 for three course block program fees, and a $4,000 fee for the master's thesis. (Please note that tuition and fees are subject to University of Pennsylvania trustees' approval.)
Is there a deposit for this program?
Yes, there will be a $1,000 deposit due upon acceptance into the program. This amount will be deducted from your program fee for the first course block.
Is there a separate fee for the Masters' thesis?
There is a $4,000 fee associated with the Masters' thesis. (Please note that tuition and fees are subject to University of Pennsylvania trustees' approval.)