Program Closure Information
WPWP Programs to be phased out by the Spring 2013 term. Download a PDF with more information.
- Why is WPWP closing?
- Can I still apply for a WPWP certificate?
- How long do I have to complete my certificate?
- How long can I enroll in individual courses?
- Do I need to apply to take WPWP courses?
- Will I earn alumni status if I take courses?
- When is the program ending?
- Can I use courses from other schools to complete my certificate requirement?
- When will certificate graduation be held?
- When is the final certificate graduation?
- Will I still have alumni status after the program closes?
- Will all courses be offered until the end of the program?
- What if I have questions that are not listed here?
Admissions & Tuition Information
- When are the application deadlines?
- What are the application requirements?
- What are the selection criteria?
- What professional experience should successful candidates have?
- How much work experience do most accepted students have? Is there a particular type of work experience WPWP seeks?
- I have less than your required three years work experience. How will this affect me?
- Does graduate education count as work experience?
- Does time spent in the military count as work experience?
- Is the GMAT required?
- What are the TOEFL requirements?
- May I petition to waive TOEFL requirements?
- Do international transcripts need to be translated?
- Should I submit both my undergraduate and graduate transcripts?
- How long does it typically take for an applicant to receive an admissions decision after he/she has submitted his/her application?
- How will I be notified of the Admissions Committee decision?
- What is the cost of the program?
- What is the cost of the Wharton Business and Law Certificate?
- Does WPWP offer financial aid?
- Does WPWP have financial aid available for international students?
- Will WPWP issue a visa for international students?
- After I complete a certificate can I enroll in another certificate?
Academic Policies
- What are the minimum grade requirements for WPWP courses?
- May I transfer credit into WPWP?
- Is it possible to substitute or waive courses based on my background?
- How many courses can I take?
- If I enroll and take courses can I transfer the courses taken into a certificate?
- Can a WPWP course be audited?
- Can I enroll in a course that has a pre-requisite requirement?
- How many courses can be taken per term?
- Is there a time limitation for completing a certificate program?
- Can a program be completed in one semester?
- May I enroll in more than one certificate at the same time?
- Can I put the certificate on my résumé?
- After I graduate, how can I obtain an official transcript?
Program Details
- When are the courses offered?
- How much time will I be spending on this program?
- Do WPWP courses earn credit?
- Are WPWP course/credits transferable to the Wharton MBA program?
- Are WPWP course/credits transferable to outside universities?
- Will these courses prepare me for the MBA?
- What is "Non-Certificate" or "No-Major" status?
- How do I convert from "Non-certificate/No-Major" status to a certificate?
- What are the backgrounds of students in Wharton Programs for Working Professionals?
- What are the participant demographics of Wharton Programs for Working Professionals?
- What are the most common industries of the attendees?
- Where are classes held?
- Is parking available?
- Do you offer distance learning?
- Are WPWP graduates recognized as University of Pennsylvania alumni?
- Are career services available?
- What Penn resources are available to WPWP Students?
Program Closure Information
After a School-wide review and an evaluation of the demand for non-degree programs at Wharton, the decision has been made to phase out certificate programs with credit-bearing courses—specifically, Wharton Programs for Working Professionals.
Can I still apply for a WPWP certificate?
No, the final certificate class was accepted for the Spring 2011 term (2011A). However, professionals who wish to take individual credit-bearing courses may apply and enroll up until the Spring 2013 end.
How long do I have to complete my certificate?
All students will be expected to complete their required course work by Spring 2013. (2013A)
How long can I enroll in individual courses?
Students who wish to take individual credit-bearing courses may apply and enroll up until the Spring 2013 end date of the program. However, only students enrolling in a certificate program before 2011A will be conferred a certificate.
Do I need to apply to take WPWP courses?
Students who wish to take individual credit-bearing courses must apply and fulfill WPWP admission requirements.
Will I earn alumni status if I take courses?
No, individuals applying for individual courses will not be conferred a certificate or alumni status.
No WPWP Courses will be offered after the Spring 2013 term.
Can I use courses from other schools to complete my certificate requirement?
Courses from outside WPWP will not be accepted as replacement course for certificate requirements.
When will certificate graduation be held?
Graduation and the conferring of certificates will take place as previously scheduled (twice a year), February (For August and December graduates) and June (for May graduates).
When is the final certificate graduation?
The final certificates will be conferred to enrolled certificate students in May 2013. Certificates will not be conferred retroactively, you must be enrolled in a certificate program by 2011A to be conferred a certificate.
Will I still have alumni status after the program closes?
Yes, alumni support will continue to be provided by Wharton External Affairs to all students conferred a certificate by 2013. Please be advised that individuals enrolled in individual courses will not be conferred a certificate or alumni status.
Will all courses be offered until the end of the program?
WPWP courses will continue to be scheduled based on enrolled students program/certificate needs as well as enrollment trends. We will do our best to keep you informed of changes to courses offerings as the program proceeds. Course offerings maybe subject to change based on enrollment and demand. Course schedules will be updated and made available regularly.
What if I have questions that are not listed here?
The WPWP staff will be providing ongoing academic advising. Please direct any concerns to them.
Admissions & Tuition Information
When are the application deadlines?
Application deadlines FOR WPWP COURSES can be found on the Admissions and Tuition Information page. Applications for Certificates are no longer available. International applicants should begin their process early enough to allow sufficient time for translating, submitting, and processing international documents.
WPWP uses a rolling admissions process. As soon as all materials for an application are submitted and it is marked complete, the application is referred to the Admissions Committee for review. You will be notified by e-mail within two to three weeks of the Committee's decision.
What are the application requirements?
Course application requirements can be found on the Admissions and Tuition Information page.
What are the selection criteria?
Wharton Programs for Working Professionals (WPWP) works very hard to create a diverse group of students who can learn from each other as well as from our faculty. In order to create this unique learning environment, we make admissions decisions based on evidence of: (1) your ability to handle the academic rigor of the program, (2) the depth of your professional experience and your potential to contribute substantively in a highly interactive learning environment, and (3) your desire to be an active member of our learning community.
What professional experience should successful candidates have?
Prospective students are expected to have a minimum of three years of professional experience. Applicants are advised that co-ops and internships are not considered as professional work experience.
How much work experience do most accepted students have? Is there a particular type of work experience WPWP seeks?
The average student has worked for five or six years. The Admissions Committee looks for individuals who exhibit professional maturity. WPWP will assess each applicant's professional experience in terms not only of years, but also the depth and breadth of an individual's position, his or her contributions to the work environment, and the level of responsibility and career progression. WPWP looks for diversity in the professional backgrounds of its admitted students just as it does in all other parts of our applicants' profiles. No one industry is favored over another. Experience in a large company does not have higher value than experience in a small business or public institution.
I have less than your required three years work experience. How will this affect me?
We welcome applicants who are motivated and exhibit strong leadership and managerial potential. However, we advise applicants with fewer than three years of work experience that the limited professional skills you have likely acquired in this time may compromise your ability to interact in the classroom and limit your opportunities to apply experience to classroom discussion, projects, and peer interaction. If you still wish to apply, we encourage you to present in your essays not only the skills you have demonstrated to date, but also your future potential.
Does graduate education count as work experience?
While we recognize the value of graduate academic work, we do not count academic work towards professional work experience.
Does time spent in the military count as work experience?
The service provides many rich and varied opportunities for professional growth and development. Military candidates are evaluated based on the same criteria as other candidates, including the nature and scope of the work, the skill sets required, work progression, and general leadership and management skills developed.
The GMAT is not required for admission.
What are the TOEFL requirements?
TOEFL requirements can be found on the Information for International Applicants page.
Note: If your test score is more than two years old, you must retake the test. Wharton accepts only official TOEFL scores sent by the ETS.
May I petition to waive TOEFL requirements?
You may request to waive the TOEFL if you have earned an undergraduate or master's degree in an English-speaking country or from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, or have completed a U.S. graduate degree program followed by at least three years of work in the U.S. Applicants may be required to provide evidence in support of the waiver with an iBT Speaking and/or an iBT Writing score of 24 or higher, or one of the above tests with the score level indicated.
Note: If your test score is more than two years old, you may be required to retake the test. Wharton accepts only official TOEFL scores sent by the ETS. Wharton reserves the right to request additional testing.
Do international transcripts need to be translated?
Yes. When submitting transcripts for application, all courses must be verified and translated into English and into North American standards before submission by an authorized translation service such as World Education Service (WES) or Education Evaluators International (EES). You will be required to provide an official paper transcript sent directly from each college or university attended to WES, EES, or other authorized third-party verification agency.
Should I submit both my undergraduate and graduate transcripts?
Transcripts of all academic work completed at the baccalaureate/undergraduate level and beyond, whether or not for credit or a degree, are strongly recommended. Official transcripts, translated into North American standards, are required upon application. If a graduate transcript is functionally focused it is imperative that an undergraduate transcript, translated into North American standards, be submitted to better substantiate academic strength.
How long does it typically take for an applicant to receive an admissions decision after he/she has submitted his/her application?
As soon as all application materials are submitted and marked complete, the application is referred to the Admissions Committee for its review and decisions. You will be notified within two to three weeks of the Committee's decision.
How will I be notified of the Admissions Committee decision?
Admission notification will be made by e-mail. You will be notified via the e-mail address you provide, so be sure to check your e-mail regularly and to notify the WPWP office if there are any changes in your contact information.
What is the cost of the program?
Tuition and fees for WPWP courses can be found on the Admissions and Tuition Information page.What is the cost of the Wharton Business and Law Certificate?
Tuition and fees for the Wharton Business and Law Certificate (WBLC) can be found on the Admissions and Tuition InformationAdmissions and Tuition Information page. Only students enrolled in Penn Law's LLM program are eligible to apply.
Does WPWP offer financial aid?
Financial aid, in the form of loans, is available for those who qualify through the University of Pennsylvania's Student Financial Services. Students are advised that they must be enrolled in two or more courses to be eligible for financial aid. For information, participants should contact Student Financial Services at 215.898.1988 (press 3 to speak to a counselor) or visit Penn's Student Financial Services.
Many WPWP students are funded by their employers. Because WPWP courses are post-baccalaureate, tuition benefits from employers are not considered taxable income under current IRS regulations. Some students may be eligible for a tax deduction for work-related educational expenses. Consult your tax advisor or your local Internal Revenue Service office. University of Pennsylvania employees may be eligible for Penn's tuition benefit.
Does WPWP have financial aid available for international students?
The University of Pennsylvania has limited need-based financial aid available for students who are not U.S. citizens or bona fide permanent residents of North America. For more details and contact information, see our answer to "Does WPWP offer financial aid?"
Will WPWP issue a visa for international students?
No, WPWP does not issue or arrange for visas. Program participants are responsible for having the appropriate immigration status that will allow them to participate in the program. Because the WPWP curriculum is part-time for working professionals, we are unable to issue immigration documents for our program. For complete and updated information about visas, you may e-mail the University of Pennsylvania's Office of International Programs.
After I complete a certificate can I enroll in another certificate?
Students accepted into the a WPWP Certificate program prior to Summer 2011 should contact the WPWP office (Wharton-wpwp@wharton.upenn.edu) for academic advisement and further assistance.
Academic Policies
What are the minimum grade requirements for WPWP courses?
In order for a given course to count towards a certificate, a student must achieve a grade of "C" or better. A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in certificate courses is required for graduation.
May I transfer credit into WPWP?
WPWP does not accept transfer credits or give credit for life experience. However, students who have previously completed a course they believe to be equivalent to a course required for a certificate may petition to substitute the required course for another WPWP course. This should be done at the outset of the student's program, in consultation with a program representative (see "Is it possible to substitute or waive courses based on my background?" below). A description of the course must be submitted, issued by the academic institution where the course was taken. Evidence of a grade of "B" or better for the course must be indicated on the student's transcript from this institution.
Is it possible to substitute or waive courses based on my background?
Courses may be substituted based on undergraduate or previous graduate coursework. Students must have received grades of "B" or better in equivalent undergraduate coursework. Substitutions must be requested in advance through the submission of a formal petition and approved in writing by a program representative. Substitutions will not be approved retroactively. Prior coursework is evaluated on its own merit. WPWP does not allow course substitutions for life or professional experience.
There is no limit to the amount of WPWP courses that you can take. It is advised that a maximum of two courses per term be taken during the fall and spring terms. The summer semester is divided into two six-week terms. During each six-week term, you are allowed to take one course, for a total of two for the summer semester.
If I enroll and take courses can I transfer the courses taken into a certificate?
No. You must be accepted into the program prior to Spring 2011 to be eligible to be conferred a certificate. Students who are enrolled in WPWP as a No-Major student PRIOR to Spring 2011 may contact the WPWP office for further assistance and academic advisement.
WPWP courses cannot be attended on an audit basis.
Can I enroll in a course that has a pre-requisite requirement?
Students are strongly discouraged from enrolling in courses if pre-requisites have not been met. Requests to waive a pre-requisite will be considered if there is evidence of course work in the required subject area, with a grade of a B or better. Requests must be made in writing and submitted to WPWP. Requests should include evidence of prior study (transcript with grade) and syllabus of the course is recommended. Work experience will not be considered for pre-requisite waiver.
How many courses can be taken per term?
A maximum of two courses per term can be taken during the fall and spring terms. The summer semester is divided into two six-week terms. During each six-week term, you are allowed to take one course, for a total of two for the summer semester.
Is there a time limitation for completing a certificate program?
All students will be expected to complete their required course work by Spring 2013. Students who wish to take individual credit-bearing courses may apply and enroll up until the Spring 2013 end date of the program. However, only students enrolling in a certificate program before 2011 will be conferred a certificate. No WPWP Courses will be offered after the Spring 2013 term. The final certificates will be conferred to enrolled certificate students in May 2013.
Can a program be completed in one semester?
Students who are currently enrolled in a certificate program (accepted prior to or for the Spring 2011 term) are reminded that the advised maximum number of courses allowed per semester is two. A four-course certificate program can be completed in as little as two semesters. A six-course certificate program can be completed in as little as three semesters. All students will be expected to complete their required course work by Spring 2013.
May I enroll in more than one certificate at the same time?
No, you may only pursue one certificate at a time. If you wish to enroll in another certificate after you complete your current certificate, please contact the WPWP office. You will not be enrolled in that certificate until you have graduated from your current certificate. You may transfer up to two courses from one certificate into the requirements of another certificate, if applicable.
Can I put the certificate on my résumé?
Absolutely. Each certificate is accredited, meaning that courses taken for the certificate earn official University of Pennsylvania credit. The certificate is awarded by the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, certifying completion of the specific program at the post-baccalaureate level. The certificate is dated and signed by the Dean of the Wharton School and the Vice Dean and Director of the Wharton School's Aresty Institute of Executive Education. On your résumé, the certificate should be listed as a certificate with your completed program, for example: Business Essentials Certificate, Wharton Programs for Working Professionals, Aresty Institute of Executive Education, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
After I graduate, how can I obtain an official transcript?
Transcripts can be obtained by contacting the Office of the University Registrar.
Program Details
During the fall and spring terms, courses are offered Monday through Thursday, 6:30 PM–9:10 PM. During the summer term, courses are offered twice a week, on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday, 6:00 PM–9:25 PM.
How much time will I be spending on this program?
Typical class time will be approximately 2 1/2 hours weekly. Homework time varies from course to course, but on the average students should expect approximately 6 hours of outside class work a week per course.
Yes. All WPWP courses earn academic credit. All courses are 3 credit hours except for MKTG 453 (New Product Management), which earns 1.5 credit hours. WPWP students receive grades, and all course information is included on a student's University of Pennsylvania transcript.
Are WPWP course/credits transferable to the Wharton MBA program?
Wharton's MBA program does not accept transfer credits. However, admitted MBA students who have completed equivalent courses through other programs, including WPWP, may be able to waive one or more of the required core courses in the MBA program. Students would then be able to take more electives in the MBA program. Approval is granted by Wharton's MBA and MBA for Executive offices and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Are WPWP course/credits transferable to outside universities?
Many institutions accept transfer credits from courses taken through WPWP. This may either allow a student to shorten the length of time needed to obtain the MBA or other graduate degree, or enable the student to take elective courses in place of required courses. The decision to accept transfer courses is determined by the admissions representatives of that institution and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Will these courses prepare me for the MBA?
Many professionals enroll in WPWP courses prior to pursuing an MBA. The courses provide opportunities for participants to strengthen their quantitative skills. Because the courses are for-credit and often make up the core of MBA programs, many find that WPWP courses build a foundation that is helpful in the pursuit of an MBA degree.
What is "Non-Certificate" or "No-Major" status?
This status is assigned to WPWP students who are not enrolled in a certificate. The final certificate class was accepted for the Spring 2011 term (2011A). All students enrolled in WPWP courses will be given this status. WPWP Courses are recommended for professionals seeking to refresh their knowledge in a specific business area. Students who wish to take individual credit-bearing courses may apply and enroll up until the Spring 2013 end date of the program. Students who wish to take individual credit- bearing courses must apply and fulfill WPWP admission requirements. Please be advised individuals applying for individual courses will not be conferred a certificate or alumni status. No WPWP Courses will be offered after the Spring 2013 term.
How do I convert from "Non-certificate/No-Major" status to a certificate?
Only those students who enrolled in WPWP as a No-Major student PRIOR to Spring 2011 may contact the WPWP office (wharton-wpwp@wharton.upenn.edu) for further assistance and academic advisement.
What are the backgrounds of students in Wharton Programs for Working Professionals?
Participants come from a variety of backgrounds. They include those who have risen to a high level in a specific discipline such as science or technology and who need a business education to advance into senior management. Other WPWP students are professionals in the early or mid-stages of their careers who have no formal business training and want an introduction to business before applying to an MBA program. Entrepreneurs seeking formal business training in order to enhance their management skills are also among WPWP students.
What are the participant demographics of Wharton Programs for Working Professionals?
The average age of the WPWP student is 34 (students range in age from 26–55). Approximately 42% of participants are female and 58% male. In addition to the required baccalaureate (four-year college) degree, 38% of participants have earned advanced degrees such as an MS, MA, or MBA, and 17% have earned doctoral-level degrees such as a PhD, JD, MD, or VMD.
Geographically, 70% of our students are from the Philadelphia or New Jersey areas; 13% from Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, DC; and 7% from New York City or Northern New Jersey. Approximately 10% are international students.
What are the most common industries of the attendees?
Industries presented in WPWP are diversified. Prominent industries are pharmaceutical, energy/chemical, communication, and financial services. There is also representation from health care, non-profit, small business, legal, and government agencies. Participants hold middle to upper management positions; many are transitioning to more senior positions or into different roles within their companies. In addition, there are a number of entrepreneurs and small business owners enrolled in WPWP.
Classes are held in state-of-the-art learning facilities at the Wharton School's Jon M. Huntsman Hall on the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia, located at 3730 Walnut Street.
On-street metered parking is available and public pay parking garages are located in and around the University area. In addition, public transportation is available.
Do you offer distance learning?
No. Wharton does not offer distance learning or online courses.
Are WPWP graduates recognized as University of Pennsylvania alumni?
Students who earn their certificates from the Wharton Program for Working Professionals will be alumni of the University of Pennsylvania and the Wharton School. Alumni support will continue to be provided by Wharton External Affairs to all students conferred a certificate by 2013. Please be advised individuals applying for individual courses will not be conferred a certificate or alumni status.
Are career services available?
Career services are not available for WPWP students.
What Penn resources are available to WPWP Students?
As a matriculated part-time student, a WPWP student can take advantage of an extensive list of resources. Access to Penn's Lippincott Library, Weingarten Learning Resource Center, and Knowledge@Wharton are a few of the many opportunities accessible to students enrolled in the program. In addition, access to study rooms, recreation facilities, and student organizations, including WPWP's business fraternity, Pi Delta Epsilon, is also available.
