Explore Options; Plan Your MBA Academic Program

presentation also contrasts the prediction characteristics
of the various models. The range of models considered includes
the Box-Jenkins ARIMA class, combinations of time series
models and regression methods, frequency-domain techniques,
models of co-integration and causation, and nonlinear models
based on smoothing techniques.
Format: Primarily lecture and discussion with occasional computing
recitations. Assigned and graded exercises, data analysis
project, midterm, and final exam.
Prerequisite: STAT 622/701 or permission of instructor.
STAT 926
Multivariate Analysis: Methodology
Description: This is a course that prepares PhD students in
statistics for research in multivariate statistics and data visualization.
The emphasis will be on a deep conceptual understanding
of multivariate methods to the point where students
will propose variations and extensions to existing methods or
whole new approaches to problems previously solved by classical
methods. Topics include: principal component analysis,
canonical correlation analysis, generalized canonical analysis;
nonlinear extensions of multivariate methods based on optimal
transformations of quantitative variables and optimal scaling of
categorical variables; shrinkage- and sparsity-based extensions
to classical methods; clustering methods of the k-means and
hierarchical varieties; multidimensional scaling, graph drawing,
and manifold estimation.
Format: Lecture and discussion.
Prerequisites: STAT 622; some facility in computing via
statistical packages; a working knowledge of matrix algebra;
breadth of intellectual and scientific curiosity beyond immediate
applications.
STAT 950
Quantitative Consulting Seminar
Description: The Practicum offers the opportunity for small
combined teams of PhDs and MBAs to work on “real life”
quantitative consulting projects. These projects are drawn from
both business and University sources. The emphasis is on providing
a relevant and comprehensible solution to the client’s
problem. In-class brainstorming sessions, client presentations
and written reports give students the opportunity to test for
the existence of an intersection between their quantitative and
communication skills.
Prerequisites: No prerequisites, but please talk to the instructor
to determine your fit with the course.
Wharton
Communication
Program
Please note: Before scheduling classes, check with the department
to determine the availability of courses for the upcoming
semester or visit the communications Program website at
.
The Wharton Communication Program helps prepare business
leaders for the communication challenges of the workplace. The
core course, WHCP 611, is described below. The combination
of WHCP 611 and one advanced option (also described below)
must be completed by all students and cannot be waived.
For students interested in improving their communication
skills beyond the core course, the Program offers a variety
of credit and non-credit opportunities. The Communication
Program also offers a variety of non-credit opportunities.
Examples include: writing and speaking workshops, writing
help for students’ cover letters, and coaching finalists in
Wharton’s Business Plan Competition.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
WHCP 611 (.25 cu)
Management Communication
(cannot be waived)
Description: WHCP 611 is the first course of the
Management Communication core requirement. In this
seminar-style course, students learn the essentials of persuasion,
gain confidence in public speaking, and receive individualized
feedback on both speaking and writing. The course enables
students to develop and demonstrate effective, business
oriented communication skills, regardless of their skill level.
Students may select a section designed specifically for nonnative
English speakers. Communication topics covered in
all sections include: persuasion, organization and delivery of
speeches, defending one’s view before adversarial audiences,
impromptu and prepared speeches, effective use of data, and
dealing effectively with the media. Each student will learn successful
communication strategies, and gain confidence using
them. Students have the opportunity to receive instructor and
peer feedback in the classroom, as well as one-on-one feedback
and coaching from instructors and second-year Wharton-
Omnicom Communication Fellows. WHCP 611 also features
a writing component that is self-paced and is tailored to students’
individual writing skills. Students will work with writing
coaches. WHCP 611 is offered Q1 and Q2.
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