The Origins of Business Education – Wharton Dean Erika James

Wharton dean Erika James reflects on the origins, impact, and future of business education as part of Knowledge at Wharton's "American Business Innovation" series ahead of the USA's 250th anniversary.

Founded in 1881 by Joseph Wharton, the Wharton School was the world's collegiate business school, pioneering modern business education and helping professionalize management while shaping generations of business leaders.

ABOUT THE SERIES As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, hear from Wharton faculty experts as they explore the American business innovations that transformed industries, reshaped markets, and changed the way the world works. From the assembly line and modern branding to the internet and artificial intelligence, this series examines the ideas and institutions that helped define American enterprise and continue to influence business today.

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