Best Business Schools & MBA Programs in 2025

List of the Best MBA Programs

How do we rank schools?

With so many MBA programs available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. To help make your decision easier, our expert team has used data from trusted sources like the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database, the Distance Learning Licensed Data Set from the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics to rank the top business schools and MBA programs available in 2024. For a detailed overview of our methodology, please visit the methodology page on our website.

1. University of Chicago (Booth)

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business offers an MBA degree in four different formats: Full-Time, Evening, Weekend, and Executive. Regardless of the format, all programs provide the same MBA degree, esteemed faculty, influential network, and a vibrant community. The school emphasizes a transformative experience that equips students with the skills, knowledge, and connections to make a meaningful impact in the business world. With a strong focus on analytical thinking and problem-solving, Booth aims to prepare students for successful careers and provides access to a global alumni network for ongoing support and opportunities.

1. Program Length: 21 months to three years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Accounting, Analytic Finance, Behavioral Science, Business Analytics, Econometrics and Statistics, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, General Management, Healthcare, International Business, Marketing Management, Operations Management, Strategic Management
3. Estimated Cost: $161,922 (total tuition cost, full-time)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 2000 units
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

2. Harvard University

Harvard Business School offers a comprehensive two-year MBA program that emphasizes practical application and general management expertise. Through the renowned case method, students actively participate in decision-making scenarios by assuming the roles of real business leaders and considering diverse perspectives from their peers. The school’s global approach encompasses international classrooms, global cases and figures, and project-based learning, ensuring students develop the necessary skills to navigate complex challenges and assume leadership roles in a global environment upon graduation.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: General Management
3. Estimated Cost: $115,638 $161,502 (total cost per year)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 66 credits
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

3. Stanford University

Stanford Graduate School of Business offers an MBA program that encourages personal and professional growth, fostering a mindset of innovation and collaboration. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives and build a strong community of colleagues. The program emphasizes principled leadership and social responsibility, empowering students to become change-makers who can positively impact the future.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Corporate Financial Modeling, Building and Managing Professional Sales Organizations, The Future of Cities: Entrepreneurship, Policy and Business Strategy
3. Estimated Cost: $126,465 $152,157 (cost of first-year attendance)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 90 units
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

4. Northwestern University (Kellogg)

Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University offers a Full-Time MBA Program with multiple options to suit individual goals. The program provides a broad skill set and emphasizes leadership development to prepare students for challenges and opportunities in the business world. With a customizable curriculum, real-world experiences, cross-disciplinary paths, and a global network of alumni, Kellogg aims to help students achieve their full leadership potential and shape successful careers.

1. Program Length: One to two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Strategy, Managing Organizations, and Management Science
3. Estimated Cost: $120,432 to $162,395 (total cost per year)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 20.5 credits
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

5. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

The Wharton School‘s MBA program offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum, featuring a core in general business education, 21 majors, and the opportunity to choose from nearly 200 electives. The program fosters strategic and measurable thinking with faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have real-world consulting experience. Students benefit from a supportive network of peers and professional advisors who guide their MBA journey.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Accounting; Business Analytics; Business Economics and Public Policy; Business, Energy, Environment and Sustainability; Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Entrepreneurship & Innovation; Environmental, Social and Governance Factors For Business; Finance; Health Care Management
3. Estimated Cost: $246,952 (total program cost)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 19 credit units
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)

The full-time MBA at MIT Sloan gives students the freedom to design their learning experience. The program is STEM-designated and offers various enrollment options like majors and dual degrees. It is also very customizable, with 144 units dedicated to electives. Students can also take advantage of cross-registration opportunities with Harvard Business School, where they can connect and collaborate with more of the country’s brightest minds.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Finance, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Enterprise Management
3. Estimated Cost: $125,489 (total cost of attendance per year)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 189 units
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

7. Carnegie Mellon (Tepper)

The Tepper MBA program prepares students to become intellectually broad leaders in the emerging business landscape. The program is STEM-designated and focused on leadership, analytics, and technology. It also encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration with peers from around the world, exposing students to diverse perspectives.

1. Program Length: 21 months
2. Tracks/concentrations: Accounting, Business Technologies, Communications, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Health Care Analytics, Marketing, Operations Management, Operations Research, Organizational Behavior, Strategy, Sustainability
3. Estimated Cost: $37,856 (total cost per semester)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 64 credits
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

8. University of Massachusetts Amherst (Isenberg)

Students who want to learn by doing can consider the UMass Isenberg MBA program, which focuses on experiential and collaborative learning. The program offers several different MBA options, including full-time, online, hybrid, and dual-degree programs, to fit the needs of diverse students. Students can customize their learning and graduate either with general requirements in 39 credits or with a concentration in 45 credits.

1. Program Length: One and a half to two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Business Analytics, Finance: Asset Management, Healthcare Administration, Management & Entrepreneurship
3. Estimated Cost: $2,521 (in-state cost per credit)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 37 49 credits
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

9. Columbia University

Columbia Business School’s MBA program equips students with in-demand skills for running businesses in the digital age. Courses cover big data, analytics, digital marketing, web programming, AI, and machine learning alongside practical tools like SQL and Tableau. The program also offers master classes and immersion seminars that bring students to the front lines of global business.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Business Administration
3. Estimated Cost: $127,058 (total first-year cost)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 60
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

10. University of Michigan (Ross)

The University of Michigan offers various MBA programs that cater to diverse needs. The UMich Ross MBA is notable for its embedded REAL program, which allows students to gain hands-on experience by consulting for companies, investing capital in real estate, or developing their own ventures. The UMich REAL.START program equips them with resources to launch and scale new businesses.

1. Program Length: Two years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Data and Business Analytics; Design Thinking and Innovation; Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG); Healthcare Management; Management Science
3. Estimated Cost: $70,392 (in-state tuition per year)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 57
5. Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)

Here’s what graduates have to say about their online MBA degree

“After 12 years as an educator, I craved a change but didn’t want to put my life on hold. I chose an online MBA program to help me pivot into corporate. Now, I’m using my skills in an operations role, and I’m loving it!” Elsa

“I had the idea for my startup but had no clue how to get it off the ground. Thanks to the feedback and support from professors and peers in my online MBA program, I am excited to work on my business full-time.” John

“I wasn’t sure if an online program could offer the same quality as a traditional MBA, but my online MBA exceeded expectations. I gained valuable knowledge and built a strong network, all from the comfort of my home office.” David

Key Findings

1. You can earn an MBA within two years.
2. You might pay about $232,985 in total for an MBA degree.
3. MBA programs from the best business schools typically require applicants to have two to five years of professional experience.
4. Students can gain niche expertise by pursuing marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship concentrations.
5. For-profit, public organizations are the top employers of MBA graduates.
6. There will be an estimated 1.1 million job openings for managers annually until 2032.

How long does it take to complete an MBA program?

Most MBA programs last about two years, full-time. However, you might prefer to enroll in a part-time or accelerated program based on your previous experience and scheduling needs.

Full-time and part-time MBAs cover the fundamentals of business administration and are suitable for students without prior education in the field. Part-time programs allow students to extend the standard two-year curriculum up to five years, allowing them to work while earning their degree.

Accelerated programs, meanwhile, are designed for students with prior education or extensive professional experience in the field. Northwestern University offers such a program that lasts only one year.

How does an online MBA program compare to an on-campus program?

The best business schools offer their MBA online and on-campus to accommodate more students. These programs typically cover the same curriculum and are taught by the same faculty. However, they provide different learning experiences and appeal to different types of students.

The best online MBAs offer flexible scheduling options, which makes them ideal for working students. Because coursework is online, they are also good options for students from out of state or other countries.

On-campus programs, meanwhile, run on a fixed schedule and require regular meetings. They are a good choice for students who can study full-time and those who prioritize networking as part of their MBA experience.

What is the average cost of an MBA program?

The cost of earning top-ranked MBA degrees can vary significantly depending on the institution and program you choose. In 2023, the average MBA tuition was $232,985. This amount can be lower when enrolling in public institutions and higher in private universities.

You can also choose between online or on-campus programs. Online MBA cost may be lower because students need not relocate to earn their degrees, eliminating expenses for transportation and housing. However, some schools add surcharges and technology fees to the tuition.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an MBA program?

While an MBA has proven to be a worthwhile investment for many, some students may be deterred by the high price tag. Fortunately, aspiring MBAs have a wide range of financial aid options to help offset some of the cost of enrolling in the best business schools. These include:

1. Student Loans
2. Scholarships and Grants
3. Fellowships and Assistantships
4. Work-study Programs
5. Employer Assistance

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an MBA program?

To get into MBA programs at the best business schools, you must meet prerequisite requirements. These serve a crucial purpose: ensuring each admitted student possesses the academic foundation, professional experience, and potential to excel within a rigorous business curriculum.

Bachelor’s Degree

Applicants to MBA programs are generally required to hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. The degree can be in any field, although some programs may prefer candidates with a bachelor of business administration online or other business-related degrees.

Transcripts

Prospective MBA students must provide official transcripts from their undergraduate institution. These transcripts help schools evaluate your academic performance and ensure you have completed any prerequisite courses.

Work Experience

Many MBA programs in the best business schools require applicants to have a certain amount of work experience, typically two to five years. This requirement helps ensure students bring valuable professional insights and contributions to classroom discussions and projects.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants are typically required to submit letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their qualifications, such as professors, employers, or supervisors. These letters provide insight into their skills, character, and potential for success in the MBA program.

Standardized Tests

Most MBA programs require applicants to submit scores from standardized tests, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). These tests assess aptitude in areas like analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning.

What courses are typically in an MBA program?

An MBA program is a comprehensive course of study that delves into the principles and applications of business management and administration. You might ask: “What does an MBA teach you?” In an MBA program in one of the best business schools, students can expect to explore a wide range of subjects, including but not limited to:

1. Finance and Accounting
2. Marketing and Branding
3. Operations and Supply Chain Management
4. Strategy and Business Planning
5. Leadership and Organizational Behavior
6. Entrepreneurship and Innovation
7. Data Analysis and Business Analytics
8. Global Business and International Markets
9. Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
10. Information Technology and Digital Transformation

What types of specializations are available in online MBA programs?

When selecting a business school for your MBA, consider the range of specializations and concentrations they offer, like online MSN MBA programs. Different schools may provide opportunities to specialize in finance, marketing, strategy, human resources, or entrepreneurship. Exploring available specializations can help you align your MBA with your career goals and interests.

How to choose the best MBA program?

When choosing the best business school for your MBA, considering the following key factors can significantly impact your MBA experience and future career prospects:

Accreditation and Reputation

Choose a school approved by recognized accrediting bodies, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards and prepares students for successful careers in business.

Faculty Expertise

Research the best schools for MBA programs with experienced faculty members with strong academic qualifications and relevant industry experience. Faculty expertise can enhance your MBA learning experience and provide valuable insights and guidance. After all, 40% of faculty members aim to improve the analytics skills of students and other in-demand job skills, according to a 2023 Wiley survey.

Career Services and Placement Support

Evaluate the career services and placement support offered by the best MBA schools. Look for programs with dedicated career development teams, internship opportunities, and strong relationships with companies in your target industry. Robust career services can provide valuable resources, guidance, and networking opportunities to help you secure internships, job placements, and career advancement.

What career paths are available for graduates of MBA programs?

As the demand for skilled business professionals continues to rise, job prospects in this field are promising. By attending reputable business schools, you can unlock endless opportunities and forge a successful career in the dynamic realm of business.

Some of the most popular jobs for MBA graduates are:

1. Business Development Manager. They are responsible for identifying new business opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and creating and implementing plans to expand the company’s market presence and increase revenue.
2. Marketing Manager. These professionals develop and execute marketing strategies to promote products or services, conduct market research to identify customer needs and preferences, manage advertising and promotional campaigns, and analyze data to measure the effectiveness of marketing efforts.
3. Financial Analyst. They conduct financial research and analysis, evaluate investment opportunities, prepare financial reports, forecast future financial trends, and provide recommendations to help organizations make informed business decisions.

Graduates can pursue various career paths in finance, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship. A 2023 corporate recruiter survey by GMAC found that for-profit, public organizations were the top employers for MBAs in the previous year. However, most employers reported hiring MBAs, as illustrated in the table below.

What is the job market for graduates with an MBA degree?

Organizations will always need leaders and strategists to help them reach their objectives, which is why there is a consistent demand for MBA graduates from the best business schools. Data backs this up: according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there will be about 1.1 million openings for management occupations annually from 2022 to 2032.

Management jobs will grow at faster-than-average rates across the board. Compared to the 3% average job growth rate projected by the BLS, jobs for financial managers will rise by 16% throughout the forecast period. To help you visualize the demand for MBA graduates.