The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Badge for BEST IN BUSINESS TRADITIONAL MBA PROGRAMS
By Dave Tomar
Published:
Updated:

Find the best Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree programs, perfect for students interested in advancing their careers in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration, and more.

Key Takeaways

  • The MBA is the most popular graduate degree due to its versatility and the opportunities it provides for career advancement.

  • The best on campus MBA programs will offer a combination of academic excellence, prestige, and influence.

  • We rank the best MBA programs based on the real-world impact of professors, students and alumni.

See our complete guide to MBAs for more information.

When it comes to business schools, reputation can be very important. After all, earning an MBA from an elite institution like Harvard Business School, the Chicago Booth School of Business, or Columbia Business School can carry a lot of weight in both education and the business world. Countless other prestigious institutions like Yale University, Dartmouth College, and New York University are home to top business schools.

But how can you choose the best business school for you?

[Check out all the top schools with a look at our University Rankings Guide].

Otherwise, read on.

 

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.

MBA students in a classroom
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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.

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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.

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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. #1

    Harvard University

    Cambridge , MA
    #1 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #1 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #1 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #1 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    3%

    Graduation

    98%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/35

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Harvard University

    Cost of Degree: $53,760
    Expenses: $26,277
    Starting Salary: $189,796
    Salary after 4 years: $232,442
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Stanford University

    Stanford , CA
    #2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 Best Universities in the World 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Stanford University

    Cost of Degree: $57,210
    Expenses: $23,746
    Starting Salary: $192,797
    Salary after 4 years: $236,118
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #12 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $44,162
    Expenses: $22,286
    Starting Salary: $179,562
    Salary after 4 years: $219,909
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Columbia University

    New York , NY
    #3 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #3 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #5 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #5 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Columbia University

    Cost of Degree: $54,627
    Expenses: $19,958
    Starting Salary: $157,731
    Salary after 4 years: $193,172
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  5. #5

    University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    52K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Michigan

    Cost of Degree: $26,226
    Expenses: $16,820
    Starting Salary: $123,871
    Salary after 4 years: $152,589
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    Cambridge , MA
    #1 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #3 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1555/35

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $61,075
    Expenses: $21,864
    Starting Salary: $209,580
    Salary after 4 years: $256,672
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  8. #7

    New York University

    New York , NY
    #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #9 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #12 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #13 Best Universities in the World 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    65K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at New York University

    Cost of Degree: $39,592
    Expenses: $23,927
    Starting Salary: $107,246
    Salary after 4 years: $131,344
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Northwestern University

    Evanston , IL
    #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #16 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Northwestern University

    Cost of Degree: $53,024
    Expenses: $25,926
    Starting Salary: $127,440
    Salary after 4 years: $156,075
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of California, Berkeley

    Berkeley , CA
    #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    48K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of California, Berkeley

    Cost of Degree: $14,476
    Expenses: $28,648
    Starting Salary: $123,871
    Salary after 4 years: $152,589
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  11. #10

    Cornell University

    Ithaca , NY
    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #10 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #11 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Cornell University

    Cost of Degree: $30,019
    Expenses: $19,996
    Starting Salary: $138,083
    Salary after 4 years: $169,109
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  13. #11

    University of Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    #4 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #6 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #6 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #6 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $66,492
    Expenses: $22,596
    Starting Salary: $140,539
    Salary after 4 years: $172,117
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  14. #12

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #5 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #19 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $64,666
    Expenses: $20,338
    Starting Salary: $121,164
    Salary after 4 years: $148,388
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Georgetown University

    Washington , DC
    #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #11 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #12 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Georgetown University

    Cost of Degree: $57,049
    Expenses: $22,644
    Starting Salary: $170,830
    Salary after 4 years: $209,214
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  16. #14

    University of California, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles , CA
    #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    49K

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

    Cost of Degree: $13,322
    Expenses: $23,579
    Starting Salary: $114,777
    Salary after 4 years: $141,387
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  17. #15

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #7 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $61,522
    Expenses: $20,061
    Starting Salary: $156,230
    Salary after 4 years: $191,334
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  19. #16

    University of Texas at Austin

    Austin , TX
    #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #6 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #10 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1365/29

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Texas at Austin

    Cost of Degree: $12,036
    Expenses: $18,548
    Starting Salary: $115,874
    Salary after 4 years: $142,739
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  20. #17

    University of Washington

    Seattle , WA
    #1 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    58K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $18,057
    Expenses: $19,848
    Starting Salary: $109,132
    Salary after 4 years: $134,433
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Indiana University Bloomington

    Bloomington , IN
    #14 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #23 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/29

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Indiana University Bloomington

    Cost of Degree: $11,468
    Expenses: $16,010
    Starting Salary: $90,630
    Salary after 4 years: $111,641
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  22. #19

    Boston University

    Boston , MA
    #19 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #21 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Boston University

    Cost of Degree: $61,924
    Expenses: $20,400
    Starting Salary: $103,562
    Salary after 4 years: $126,832
    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
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  23. #20

    Carnegie Mellon University

    Pittsburgh , PA
    #4 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #9 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #9 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Carnegie Mellon University

    Cost of Degree: $48,557
    Expenses: $18,886
    Starting Salary: $140,539
    Salary after 4 years: $172,117
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  25. #21

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL
    #2 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #13 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/31

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

    Cost of Degree: $18,131
    Expenses: $16,420
    Starting Salary: $111,170
    Salary after 4 years: $136,944
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #11 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #13 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $62,962
    Expenses: $20,320
    Starting Salary: $121,846
    Salary after 4 years: $149,224
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Dartmouth College

    Hanover , NH
    #19 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #21 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #22 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Dartmouth College

    Cost of Degree: $61,056
    Expenses: $21,144
    Starting Salary: $150,363
    Salary after 4 years: $184,149
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  29. #25

    University of Minnesota

    Minneapolis , MN
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #8 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #12 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #18 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    61K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/29

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Minnesota

    Cost of Degree: $20,315
    Expenses: $15,240
    Starting Salary: $95,961
    Salary after 4 years: $118,209
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  31. #26

    University of Virginia

    Charlottesville , VA
    #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1470/33

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Virginia

    Cost of Degree: $21,742
    Expenses: $17,790
    Starting Salary: $124,498
    Salary after 4 years: $153,362
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  38. #32

    Syracuse University

    Syracuse , NY
    #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #25 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1345/30

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Syracuse University

    Cost of Degree: $44,790
    Expenses: $20,812
    Starting Salary: $94,420
    Salary after 4 years: $115,636
    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: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BPS in Knowledge Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BPS in Cybersecurity Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  39. #33

    Fordham University

    Bronx , NY
    #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #8 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #18 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Fordham University

    Cost of Degree: $23,950
    Expenses: $25,199
    Starting Salary: $91,418
    Salary after 4 years: $111,960
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  40. #34

    University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Madison , WI
    #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #7 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #9 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/29

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Cost of Degree: $12,251
    Expenses: $17,198
    Starting Salary: $106,623
    Salary after 4 years: $131,343
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  43. #36

    Babson College

    Wellesley , MA
    #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #14 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required #21 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    22%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1430/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Babson College

    Cost of Degree: $89,550
    Expenses: $22,304
    Starting Salary: $154,593
    Salary after 4 years: $189,329
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  44. #37

    Washington University in St. Louis

    Saint Louis , MO
    #22 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

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

    Cost of Degree: $60,590
    Expenses: $22,886
    Starting Salary: $119,936
    Salary after 4 years: $146,884
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 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: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  45. #38

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #12 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/28

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,553
    Expenses: $18,124
    Starting Salary: $84,515
    Salary after 4 years: $104,109
    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
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Safety and Security
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  47. #40

    University of Pittsburgh

    Pittsburgh , PA
    #6 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #11 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #18 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1375/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Pittsburgh

    Cost of Degree: $26,142
    Expenses: $15,948
    Starting Salary: $95,961
    Salary after 4 years: $118,209
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  52. #44

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,914
    Expenses: $19,509
    Starting Salary: $87,023
    Salary after 4 years: $107,199
    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
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communication
    • Sustainability
    • Required Credits: 114-120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: 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
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  56. #47

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Arizona 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Arizona

    Cost of Degree: $14,015
    Expenses: $18,350
    Starting Salary: $87,807
    Salary after 4 years: $108,165
    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
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Administration of Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Care, Health and Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Medical Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Cyber Operations
    Degree Concentrations
    • Engineering
    • Defense & Forensics
    • and Cyber Law & Policy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Economy and Industry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies, in Arts, Media and Entertainment
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Global and Intercultural Understanding
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Global Media
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Government and Public Service
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Rights Practice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Literacy, Learning and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Information Science and ESociety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Law
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Regional Commerce
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Intelligence and Information Operations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Philosophy: Ethics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Biology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nutritional Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Spanish
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Sports and Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sustainable Built Environments
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Social Behavior and Human Understanding
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  57. #48

    Tulane University

    New Orleans , LA
    #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Louisiana 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Louisiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Tulane University

    Cost of Degree: $63,244
    Expenses: $21,046
    Starting Salary: $117,752
    Salary after 4 years: $144,211
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school
  59. #50

    Baruch College

    New York , NY
    #19 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    24K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Baruch College

    Cost of Degree: $11,452
    Expenses: $25,620
    Starting Salary: $99,724
    Salary after 4 years: $122,844
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with MBA Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Business Administration And Management

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $11,530
  • Avg. Expenses*: $16,731
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $77,404
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $95,349
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 4 years
  • Job Growth: 4.86%
  • Number of Jobs: 11,888,900
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Chief Executives-8.21%$161,191
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$134,192
Compensation and Benefits Managers1.71%$124,492
Purchasing Managers4.39%$118,521
Sales Managers4.06%$117,002

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$55,563$92,094$148,349

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 New York5% higher than average$116,372
#3 Virginia5% higher than average$104,589
#4 Michigan15% higher than average$90,047
#5 Georgia13% higher than average$90,306
#6 Illinois7% higher than average$96,596

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Chief Executives$161,191
Computer and Information Systems Managers$134,192
Compensation and Benefits Managers$124,492
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.
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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.

Students in a classroom

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.

See our Guide to Online Degrees.

 
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