A growing number of MBA programs in the US offer a pre-program Orientation Module. The Orientation Modules are typically full-time, intensive 2 - 4 week experiences in which students study the "big picture" of business and build basic competencies in business areas such as accounting, finance, information technology, strategy, statistics, economics, marketing, and people management. The needs for soft skills such as negotiation, leadership and presentation-making are also explored. The Orientation Modules also provide an opportunity for students to interact with their fellow classmates, cohort, faculty, staff and members of the business community.