MGMT 953 immerses the student in the philosophy of science, theory building, research design, measurement procedures, hypothesis testing, and data analysis, with opportunities provided for first hand experience in applying research methods and statistical techniques. After the foundation courses, each student takes electives that provide further depth in his or her area of specialization including statistics and research methods. The electives must include a three course social science sequence taken in the Wharton School or in the University's social science departments. Additionally, it is strongly recommended that students take advanced management research courses in their major and minor fields of specialization. At the end of the first year in the program, all students will take a screening exam in the two foundations courses and in two of the five sub-fields.
Satisfactory performance is required to continue the second year of the program.
Each student will choose one of these as a major field and will take advanced courses and preliminary examinations in this field. In addition, it is strongly recommended, but not required, that students complete a minor field of specialization. This minor field is completed by taking appropriate advanced courses and completing an empirical research paper in the minor field. Preliminary examinations are administered by standing departmental committees in each of the four areas of specialization. Minor field research paper topics will be approved and papers themselves read by these standing committees.