The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2026

50 Best On-Campus MBA Degree Programs

If you prefer the more experiential learning approach that comes with a traditional on-campus business school education, read on for a look at the best business schools for earning your MBA...

1. Last Year’s Ranking:

   1. Harvard University
   2. University of California, Berkeley
   3. Columbia University
   4. University of Chicago
   5. Stanford University
   6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
   7. University of Michigan
   8. Cornell University
   9. University of Pennsylvania
   10. New York University
   11. Johns Hopkins University
   12. University of California, Los Angeles
   13. University of Washington
   14. University of Minnesota
   15. University of Wisconsin–Madison
   16. Duke University
   17. University of Southern California
   18. University of Texas at Austin
   19. Northwestern University
   20. Carnegie Mellon University
   21. University of Virginia
   22. Boston University
   23. Georgetown University
   24. Indiana University Bloomington
   25. University of Pittsburgh
   26. Dartmouth College
   27. Ohio State University
   28. University of Notre Dame
   29. Purdue University
   30. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
   31. University of Maryland, College Park
   32. University of Arizona
   33. Syracuse University
   34. Michigan State University
   35. George Washington University
   36. University of Utah
   37. Vanderbilt University
   38. University of Miami
   39. Florida State University
   40. Arizona State University
   41. Fordham University
   42. Tulane University
   43. Texas A&M University
   44. Boston College
   45. University of Houston
   46. American University
   47. Southern Methodist University
   48. Baruch College
   49. Babson College
   50. Washington University in St. Louis
2. #1

   Harvard University

   Cambridge , MA

   #1 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #1 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #1 Best Universities in the World 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $65K

   Acceptance

   4%

   Graduation

   97%

   Student body

   38K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1545/35

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at Harvard University

   Cost of Degree: $55,440

   Expenses: $27,629

   Starting Salary: $149,764

   Salary after 4 years: $170,059

   Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
3. #2

   University of California, Berkeley

   Berkeley , CA

   #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $17K

   Acceptance

   11%

   Graduation

   94%

   Student body

   49K

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of California, Berkeley

   Cost of Degree: $15,261

   Expenses: $30,203

   Starting Salary: $136,968

   Salary after 4 years: $156,070

   Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
4. #3

   Columbia University

   New York , NY

   #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #3 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online

   Tuition + fees

   $74K

   Acceptance

   4%

   Graduation

   95%

   Student body

   39K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1545/34

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at Columbia University

   Cost of Degree: $56,279

   Expenses: $20,542

   Starting Salary: $134,381

   Salary after 4 years: $152,592

   Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
5. #4

   Stanford University

   Stanford , CA

   #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $69K

   Acceptance

   4%

   Graduation

   92%

   Student body

   21K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1545/34

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at Stanford University

   Cost of Degree: $59,499

   Expenses: $25,349

   Starting Salary: $153,919

   Salary after 4 years: $174,777

   Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
7. #5

   University of Chicago

   Chicago , IL

   #4 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #4 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #5 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #5 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $74K

   Acceptance

   4%

   Graduation

   95%

   Student body

   21K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1545/34

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Chicago

   Cost of Degree: $66,543

   Expenses: $23,421

   Starting Salary: $127,556

   Salary after 4 years: $144,841

   Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
8. #6

   Massachusetts Institute of Technology

   Cambridge , MA

   #5 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #7 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #7 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #8 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $65K

   Acceptance

   5%

   Graduation

   96%

   Student body

   13K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1550/35

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

   Cost of Degree: $63,393

   Expenses: $22,574

   Starting Salary: $187,336

   Salary after 4 years: $212,723

   Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
9. #7

   University of Michigan

   Ann Arbor , MI

   #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

   Tuition + fees

   $18K

   Acceptance

   16%

   Graduation

   93%

   Student body

   54K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1445/32

   Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Michigan

   Cost of Degree: $27,524

   Expenses: $17,554

   Starting Salary: $126,882

   Salary after 4 years: $144,576

   Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Compare school
10. #8

    New York University

    New York , NY

    #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #8 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    64K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at New York University

    Cost of Degree: $41,124

    Expenses: $27,314

    Starting Salary: $111,696

    Salary after 4 years: $126,832

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
11. #9

    Cornell University

    Ithaca , NY

    #1 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $72K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Cornell University

    Cost of Degree: $30,085

    Expenses: $22,126

    Starting Salary: $139,417

    Salary after 4 years: $158,310

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
13. #10

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA

    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #12 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/35

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $46,034

    Expenses: $22,924

    Starting Salary: $149,433

    Salary after 4 years: $169,683

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
14. #11

    University of California, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles , CA

    #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    49K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of California, Los Angeles

    Cost of Degree: $13,883

    Expenses: $24,284

    Starting Salary: $121,071

    Salary after 4 years: $137,956

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
15. #12

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD

    #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #14 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $67K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/35

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $65,956

    Expenses: $22,725

    Starting Salary: $128,437

    Salary after 4 years: $145,843

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
16. #13

    University of Texas at Austin

    Austin , TX

    #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    27%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    56K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1380/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Texas at Austin

    Cost of Degree: $12,012

    Expenses: $19,894

    Starting Salary: $111,658

    Salary after 4 years: $127,230

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
17. #14

    Northwestern University

    Evanston , IL

    #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #13 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #16 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #16 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    8%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Northwestern University

    Cost of Degree: $53,871

    Expenses: $25,293

    Starting Salary: $128,026

    Salary after 4 years: $145,375

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
19. #15

    University of Washington

    Seattle , WA

    #1 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #5 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    39%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    60K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $18,633

    Expenses: $21,909

    Starting Salary: $113,587

    Salary after 4 years: $129,428

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
20. #16

    Duke University

    Durham , NC

    #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $73K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $63,985

    Expenses: $21,267

    Starting Salary: $139,916

    Salary after 4 years: $158,876

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
21. #17

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA

    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $75K

    Acceptance

    10%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    52K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $68,128

    Expenses: $22,216

    Starting Salary: $127,001

    Salary after 4 years: $144,211

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
22. #18

    Carnegie Mellon University

    Pittsburgh , PA

    #10 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #16 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #16 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #19 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $69K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Carnegie Mellon University

    Cost of Degree: $49,450

    Expenses: $19,868

    Starting Salary: $153,817

    Salary after 4 years: $174,661

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
23. #19

    University of Minnesota

    Minneapolis , MN

    #6 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #6 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #6 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #22 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/28

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Minnesota

    Cost of Degree: $21,091

    Expenses: $16,378

    Starting Salary: $101,571

    Salary after 4 years: $115,737

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
25. #20

    University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Madison , WI

    #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #7 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #7 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1450/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Cost of Degree: $12,289

    Expenses: $17,700

    Starting Salary: $109,794

    Salary after 4 years: $125,106

    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
26. #21

    Georgetown University

    Washington , DC

    #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #18 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #18 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #21 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1470/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Georgetown University

    Cost of Degree: $59,306

    Expenses: $23,660

    Starting Salary: $135,715

    Salary after 4 years: $154,106

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
27. #22

    University of Virginia

    Charlottesville , VA

    #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #8 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    30K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1475/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Virginia

    Cost of Degree: $22,612

    Expenses: $18,940

    Starting Salary: $131,851

    Salary after 4 years: $150,239

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
28. #23

    Boston University

    Boston , MA

    #19 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #24 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #3 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    45K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1475/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Boston University

    Cost of Degree: $64,712

    Expenses: $21,195

    Starting Salary: $109,400

    Salary after 4 years: $124,225

    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Boston University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Undergrad Completion Program

    • Required Credits: 64
    • Format: Fully online

    Compare school
29. #24

    University of Pittsburgh

    Pittsburgh , PA

    #10 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #10 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #11 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #25 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Pittsburgh

    Cost of Degree: $27,064

    Expenses: $16,922

    Starting Salary: $99,930

    Salary after 4 years: $113,866

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
31. #25

    Washington University in St. Louis

    St. Louis , MO

    #19 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #20 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #23 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #1 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $70K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Washington University in St. Louis

    Cost of Degree: $62,366

    Expenses: $25,506

    Starting Salary: $112,359

    Salary after 4 years: $127,585

    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Washington University in St. Louis’s Online Degrees

    BS in Integrated Studies

    Degree Concentrations

    • Humanities
    • Social Science

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online

    Compare school
32. #26

    Dartmouth College

    Hanover , NH

    #20 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #21 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #24 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #1 Best Research Universities in New Hampshire 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $72K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Dartmouth College

    Cost of Degree: $64,068

    Expenses: $22,054

    Starting Salary: $136,508

    Salary after 4 years: $155,007

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
33. #27

    University of Notre Dame

    Notre Dame , IN

    #3 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #21 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #22 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #25 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $68K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1507/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Notre Dame

    Cost of Degree: $62,502

    Expenses: $20,578

    Starting Salary: $138,917

    Salary after 4 years: $157,743

    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
34. #28

    George Washington University

    Washington , DC

    #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $70K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at George Washington University

    Cost of Degree: $35,154

    Expenses: $19,325

    Starting Salary: $118,737

    Salary after 4 years: $134,828

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
35. #29

    Ohio State University

    Columbus , OH

    #10 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    65K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Ohio State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,497

    Expenses: $18,372

    Starting Salary: $91,684

    Salary after 4 years: $104,470

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
37. #30

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL

    #2 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #11 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #15 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #15 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    42%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Cost of Degree: $18,837

    Expenses: $17,638

    Starting Salary: $119,729

    Salary after 4 years: $136,427

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
38. #31

    University of Maryland, College Park

    College Park , MD

    #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #16 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #16 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1465/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Maryland, College Park

    Cost of Degree: $17,843

    Expenses: $19,380

    Starting Salary: $121,956

    Salary after 4 years: $138,964

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
39. #32

    Purdue University

    West Lafayette , IN

    #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #11 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #17 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    57K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1340/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Purdue University

    Cost of Degree: $9,992

    Expenses: $14,890

    Starting Salary: $109,455

    Salary after 4 years: $124,720

    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
40. #33

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ

    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2026 #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Arizona

    Cost of Degree: $14,389

    Expenses: $19,500

    Starting Salary: $92,141

    Salary after 4 years: $104,990

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Arizona’s Online Degrees

    BA in Africana Studies

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Administration of Justice

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Care, Health and Society

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Emergency Medical Services

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Cyber Operations

    Degree Concentrations

    • Engineering
    • Defense & Forensics
    • and Cyber Law & Policy

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Communication

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Early Childhood

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies in Economy and Industry

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Environmental Science

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies, in Arts, Media and Entertainment

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies in Global and Intercultural Understanding

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Global Media

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Government and Public Service

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Human Rights Practice

    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Human Services

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering

    • Required Credits: 128
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Business Administration

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Literacy, Learning and Leadership

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Information Science and ESociety

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Organizational Leadership

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Psychology

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Law

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Political Science

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Regional Commerce

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BAS in Intelligence and Information Operations

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in History

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Philosophy: Ethics

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Biology

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Nutritional Sciences

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Spanish

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies in Sports and Society

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Public Health

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Sustainable Built Environments

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies in Social Behavior and Human Understanding

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    Bachelor of General Studies in Science, Technology, Health and Society

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

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41. #34

    Syracuse University

    Syracuse , NY

    #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2026 #5 Best Private Colleges in New York 2026 #6 Best Colleges in New York 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $68K

    Acceptance

    46%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1355/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Syracuse University

    Cost of Degree: $46,318

    Expenses: $22,086

    Starting Salary: $104,447

    Salary after 4 years: $118,601

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Syracuse University’s Online Degrees

    BPS in Creative Leadership

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online

    BPS in Knowledge Management

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online

    BPS in Cybersecurity Administration

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Liberal Arts

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online

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43. #35

    Michigan State University

    East Lansing , MI

    #21 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #22 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #23 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/28

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Michigan State University

    Cost of Degree: $21,148

    Expenses: $16,680

    Starting Salary: $101,372

    Salary after 4 years: $115,509

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
44. #36

    University of Utah

    Salt Lake City , UT

    #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2026 #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #23 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #24 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    41K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Utah

    Cost of Degree: $8,448

    Expenses: $21,298

    Starting Salary: $99,405

    Salary after 4 years: $113,268

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
45. #37

    Vanderbilt University

    Nashville , TN

    #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Vanderbilt University

    Cost of Degree: $56,128

    Expenses: $25,644

    Starting Salary: $121,671

    Salary after 4 years: $138,159

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
46. #38

    University of Miami

    Coral Gables , FL

    #1 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2026 #2 Best Colleges in Florida 2026 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Miami

    Cost of Degree: $44,858

    Expenses: $28,514

    Starting Salary: $103,267

    Salary after 4 years: $117,261

    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
47. #39

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ

    #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    87K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,389

    Expenses: $21,219

    Starting Salary: $94,460

    Salary after 4 years: $107,633

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Arizona State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Science

    Degree Concentrations

    • Project Management
    • Health Sciences

    • Required Credits: 111-120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Business

    Degree Concentrations

    • Communication
    • Sustainability

    • Required Credits: 114-120
    • Format: Fully online

    BA in Educational Studies

    Degree Concentrations

    • Business
    • Community Health
    • Family and Human Development
    • Global Studies
    • Health Innovations
    • Personal Health
    • Political Science
    • Organizational Leadership

    • Required Credits: 114-120
    • Format: Fully online

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49. #40

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL

    #2 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2026 #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    24%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    46K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1340/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,553

    Expenses: $20,296

    Starting Salary: $93,249

    Salary after 4 years: $106,254

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Florida State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Science

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Computer Science

    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Criminology

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Public Safety and Security

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online

    BS in Interdisciplinary Social Science

    • Required Credits: 43
    • Format: Fully online

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50. #41

    Texas A&M University

    College Station , TX

    #24 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in Texas 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    81K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Texas A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $11,093

    Expenses: $20,408

    Starting Salary: $106,827

    Salary after 4 years: $121,725

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Texas A&M University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN

    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online

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51. #42

    Fordham University

    Bronx , NY

    #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #6 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #1 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $68K

    Acceptance

    59%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Fordham University

    Cost of Degree: $25,954

    Expenses: $27,583

    Starting Salary: $113,970

    Salary after 4 years: $129,415

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
52. #43

    Tulane University

    New Orleans , LA

    #1 Best Colleges in Louisiana 2026 #1 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2026 #1 Best Private Colleges in Louisiana 2026 #1 Best Grad Schools in Louisiana 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $72K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1460/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Tulane University

    Cost of Degree: $66,046

    Expenses: $21,908

    Starting Salary: $83,782

    Salary after 4 years: $95,136

    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
53. #44

    Indiana University Bloomington

    Bloomington , IN

    #10 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2026 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Indiana University Bloomington

    Cost of Degree: $11,611

    Expenses: $17,110

    Starting Salary: $95,819

    Salary after 4 years: $109,181

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
55. #45

    Boston College

    Chestnut Hill , MA

    #3 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #7 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #9 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $74K

    Acceptance

    16%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Boston College

    Cost of Degree: $35,900

    Expenses: $21,925

    Starting Salary: $137,756

    Salary after 4 years: $156,423

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
56. #46

    American University

    Washington , DC

    #8 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #2 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2026 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #4 Best Research Universities in DC 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    62%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at American University

    Cost of Degree: $33,239

    Expenses: $19,632

    Starting Salary: $104,943

    Salary after 4 years: $119,164

    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
57. #47

    University of Houston

    Houston , TX

    #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2026 #3 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2026 #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    52K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1250/26

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Houston

    Cost of Degree: $9,749

    Expenses: $17,023

    Starting Salary: $93,520

    Salary after 4 years: $106,562

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
58. #48

    Southern Methodist University

    Dallas , TX

    #9 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2026 #5 Best Research Universities in Texas 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $70K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Southern Methodist University

    Cost of Degree: $37,062

    Expenses: $21,630

    Starting Salary: $110,566

    Salary after 4 years: $125,550

    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

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59. #49

    Baruch College

    New York , NY

    #4 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2026 #21 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2026 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    23K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Baruch College

    Cost of Degree: $11,452

    Expenses: $24,018

    Starting Salary: $114,457

    Salary after 4 years: $130,420

    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school
61. #50

    Babson College

    Wellesley , MA

    #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2026 #25 Best Online Master's in Management 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1460/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Babson College

    Cost of Degree: $54,600

    Expenses: $24,160

    Starting Salary: $170,632

    Salary after 4 years: $193,755

    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Compare school

How MBA Students Can Find The Best Graduate School Degree

Top business schools will typically be highly reputable as well as highly influential. MBA rankings published by sites like U.S. News & World Report place a heavy weight on reputation surveys alongside factors like acceptance rate and graduation rate.

By contrast, Academic Influence measures excellence with a unique metric called Influence. Influence-based MBA rankings spotlight the real-world impact of a school’s students, alumni, and faculty members.

The resulting ranking does reflect some of the same outcomes as the annual U.S. News rankings. For instance, top business schools like Harvard Business School, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, the Columbia Business School, The Northwestern University Kellogg School of Business, and other highly prestigious business schools rank both for reputation and Influence.

The cost of MBA programs can be expensive. To find affordable programs, check out our list of the most affordable MBA degree programs.

Why We Rank MBA Programs Based on Influence

The Influence metric is a more objective and transparent way of measuring actual student success. Ranking for Influence is a great starting point as you search for the best business school for you. This is because the real-world influence of your professors, classmates and fellow alumni can translate directly into value business networking opportunities.

This makes Influence a particularly meaningful metric for prospective business students.

The Best Online MBA Degrees

Many of the best business schools also offer a wide range of online part time MBA programs as well as full time MBA programs online with self-pacing and asynchronous distance learning opportunities. To learn more about your options, check out the best online master’s programs for MBA students.

What to Look for in the Top Business Schools

Before choosing a school of business for your MBA, there are few factors you’ll need to consider:

Accreditation

Business school accreditation is extremely important when it comes to choosing your MBA program. Accreditation provides assurances that you are getting a quality education, receiving current course material, and gaining access to qualified faculty members. Moreover, only graduate students earning MBAs from business schools with accreditation from Department of Education-recognized accreditors will be eligible for financial aid.

Reputation

Depending on your career goals, the reputation of your MBA may be important. Earning an MBA from a highly reputable graduate school can significantly improve your chances for career advancement and a top salary. Many business leaders will carry marquee names like Stanford University and Columbia University on their MBA degrees.

Availability of Online Classes

MBA students with an interest in taking some online courses should find out what programs and courses may be available through distance learning. Working adults pursuing their MBA may also want to determine the availability of both part time MBA programs and full time MBA programs.

Financial Aid

All prospective MBA students should fill out their Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. As an MBA student, you may or may not be eligible for federal financial aid, state-based financial aid, or even assistance directly through the financial aid office at your grad school.

While graduate students are typically not eligible for as many financial aid opportunities as undergraduate students, it’s important to complete your FAFSA. You may be able to offset at least some portion of the cost for your MBA.

How to Get into a Top MBA Program

Test Scores

Many MBA programs will require you to submit GRE Test Scores. These can impact your chances of admission.

Undergraduate Degree

You need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year program. This undergraduate degree can be in any subject. You don’t necessarily have to major in business. to pursue an MBA program.

Undergraduate GPA

The typical graduate level business administration program will include a requirement for a minimum GPA—usually 3.0.

Why Attend an MBA Program Through One of the Best Business Schools in the U.S.

MBA programs are extremely popular for a reason. Business administration is a gateway to countless careers in the business sector. However, many of the top careers are highly competitive. Business leaders will typically earn their master’s degree in order to compete for top roles. Attending a top school of business can significantly improve your chances of ascending to a leadership role and earning executive level pay.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, top executives are among the best paid professionals in the labor market. Top executives earned a median salary of $98,980 in 2021. While a bachelor’s degree can technically qualify you for many roles in business, most leadership roles are held by those with an advanced business degree.

What’s the difference between an MBA and an Executive MBA?

And if your career goals include business leadership, you might consider a specialized concentration such as the executive MBA program. The executive MBA program will typically be reserved for those who have already attained some level of leadership in their field.

For instance, the Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University describes the executive MBA as an excellent fit for “leaders and experienced executives.”

If you are a working professional with an interest in attending business school, the executive MBA may be a good fit for you.

Considering an Online MBA Program?

Before you launch into business school, it’s worth also considering MBA programs that offer fully online master options. Many of the best business schools offer an array of online courses. And if you are working to balance job responsibilities while attending business school, an online MBA program may make it possible to manage everything at one.

As with the traditional MBA, the online MBA program can prepare students for leadership opportunities and specialized roles in their organization. The online master’s program in business administration is a particularly versatile degree. And if you’re considering an executive MBA, many online programs are geared toward graduate students who have already made significant advancements in their career.

Going to online business school or online school of management makes it possible to balance your current workplace responsibilities with your graduate level coursework. In fact, if you don’t think you can handle a full time MBA program with your work schedule and personal responsibilities, many online business schools offer a wide range of part time MBA programs as well as full time MBA programs with self-pacing and asynchronous distance learning opportunities. To learn more about your options, check out the best online master’s programs for MBA students.