Lauder’s MBA/MA in International Studies*
- MBA from the Wharton School
- MA from University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts & Sciences
- 2 degrees in 24 months
- 6 Programs of Concentration in various regions
Lauder’s MBA/MA joint degree is the first of its kind in the U.S. The degree combines a top-ranked business program with intercultural leadership skills, interdisciplinary coursework, language studies, and research — providing a foundation for our graduates to excel in their careers around the world.
The Value of a Lauder Joint Degree
Our students not only learn about the complexity of the world, they experience it through Lauder’s unique curriculum.
Lauder MA courses integrate knowledge across international economics, comparative politics, sociology, anthropology, history, language, culture, and more. Out of the classroom, in-depth immersion experiences engage students in hands-on learning in their region of interest. Every Lauder graduate is expected to gain superior proficiency in at least one language other than English.
The interdisciplinary knowledge, intercultural fluency, and language ability that Lauder students acquire over 24 months make them invaluable to business and social impact endeavors across different countries and industries. A Lauder joint degree enhances a business leader’s ability to negotiate across dividing lines and navigate cultural differences. Ultimately, it drives the success of our alumni in life after Lauder.
*At Lauder, students can also earn a JD/MA joint degree in 3 years from the Penn Carey Law School and Penn’s School of Arts & Sciences. Our JD/MA graduates go on to work at the intersection of international law and business with a deep understanding of the social, political, and economic factors at work in their regions of focus. Contact us to learn more.
What makes the Lauder degree unique?
Timing
Unlike a typical academic calendar, the Lauder joint degree starts several months before the Fall Term. The exact start date is announced during Welcome Week. Lauder MBA/MA students spend 24 months in the program.
Choices & Options
Lauder students select one of six Programs of Concentration, which span five geographic regions and the Global Program. The Institute also offers instruction in 11 languages.
Immersion Experiences
Starting with an intensive program in Philadelphia and then an immersion abroad in their first summer, students are required to take deep dives into different countries and cultures throughout their time at Lauder.
Capstone Research
All Lauder students fulfill the masters research and writing requirement by completing a capstone course and a solo-authored paper. The capstone helps Lauder students develop an understanding of social science research methods as well as intercultural and critical thinking skills that will take them beyond the degree and into the workplace.
