Page Contents
Business Schools For MBA in the USA
Are you planning to get your MBA degree in the USA? If yes, it is a good choice.
But do you know which USA college or university provides the best MBA experience and further opportunities? If you do not know, it is ok we are here to assist you with this.
After a bachelor’s degree, pursuing of master’s degree is the choice of every student. MBA is an excellent postgraduate course that will give you in-depth insights on establishing, running, and thriving your businesses.
But, before you join a business school, it is necessary to understand the performance and excellency of the school. Here, we have made a list of the top 20 business schools or MBA programs in the United States of America (UAS) that you pursue in the year 2023 and 2024.
America has one of the big yet best education systems and universities. As of World University Ranking 2023, USA’s 12 universities are in the top 20 best universities in the world. This definitely shows how sound America’s universities are.
Pursuing an MBA (Master in Business Administration) degree in the USA is the top destination for many international students. If you are an international as well as a national student getting to know about these top 20 business schools’ MBA programs in the USA will be fruitful. So, let’s get started.
Harvard Business School, Harvard University
Harvard University, located in Cambridge, USA, is the oldest higher education institution in the United States and is considered one of the most prestigious universities globally.
As a private Ivy League university, it has a strong academic heritage, reputation, and influence, and is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities worldwide by prominent publications such as QS, Times Higher Education, and U.S. News & World Report.
At Harvard Business School, you can enroll in a comprehensive two-year MBA program that emphasizes practical learning in the field of general management.
Being part of HBS means becoming part of a worldwide community that fosters ongoing learning and provides career assistance. You’ll be surrounded by fellow students, professors, and staff who will push you to grow while also providing encouragement as you discover and advance in your chosen path.
Harvard University Rankings:
- #1Universities Rankings – ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #2 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #1 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #5 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #3 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Stanford Graduate School of Business, Stanford University
Stanford Graduate School of Business, Stanford University is in the second of our best 20 business schools for MBA degrees in the USA.
Stanford University has built a strong reputation as one of the finest educational institutions globally, not just within the United States. It is renowned for its entrepreneurial student community and offers excellent returns on investment for its graduates. Interestingly, Stanford students often have unique opportunities, as they are often sought after by companies like Google without even having to apply for summer jobs or internships.
However, many students opt for the path of entrepreneurship instead. What sets Stanford apart from other top schools is its wide range of academic offerings. It is the only university among the top-ranked institutions that provide courses in various fields such as Medicine, Engineering, Law, Environment, Liberal Arts, and Education.
Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) offers a unique business school experience that sets it apart from others. It is situated in Silicon Valley, surrounded by innovative companies that inspire and shape its curriculum. The program is designed to challenge and motivate students, providing a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and fosters personal growth.
The faculty is among the best in the world, pushing students to achieve their full potential. Students can expect to study a range of interesting courses, including Ethics in Management, Financial Accounting, Managerial Skills, Managing Groups and Teams, and Leadership Labs.
Stanford University Rankings:
- #2 Universities Rankings – ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #3 University Ranking – THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #3 Global Universities – US News & World Report 2023
- #3 World University Ranking – QS 2023
- #3 National University Ranking – US News & World Report 2023
Booth School of Business, The University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is a private research university situated in Chicago, Illinois, that has been around since 1890. With an initial enrolment of 594 students and 120 faculty members, the University has always encouraged collaboration and interdisciplinary research across different fields.
In 1907, physicist Albert A. Michelson became the first University scholar to be awarded a Nobel Prize in the Sciences. The University has since gone on to produce an impressive 97 Nobel laureates, the largest number associated with any American university.
The MBA program is offered by the Booth School of Business. This program is available with the following concentrations: Accounting, Analytic Finance, Behavioral Science, Business Analytics, Econometrics and Statistics, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, General Management, International Business, Marketing Management, Operations Management, and Strategic Management.
The University of Chicago Rankings:
- #10 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #13 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #22 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #10 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #6National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious institution that holds a prominent position among the esteemed Ivy League Universities in the United States. It has established itself as a hub for exceptional academics, embodying a symbol of excellence in learning. As one of the oldest higher education institutions in the USA, the University of Pennsylvania boasts high rankings worldwide for its educational standards.
The University of Pennsylvania takes pride in its distinguished alumni, which includes Nobel laureates, Guggenheim Fellows, and accomplished CEOs. The list is impressive and diverse, featuring individuals such as Elon Musk, the influential co-founder and CEO of Tesla, Noam Chomsky, a renowned social critic and left-leaning activist, John Legend, a globally celebrated Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter, Anil Ambani, a prominent Indian businessman, Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, and Sachin Pilot, an influential Indian politician. These notable individuals exemplify the caliber and impact of the University’s alumni network.
Wharton MBA gives the business and leadership skills required to realize goals throughout a career. Wharton’s MBA program emphasizes an intensive, flexible core in general business education, plus the depth of 19 majors (Finance, Accounting, Management, Marketing, Real Estate, etc.) and breadth of nearly 200 electives.
The University of Pennsylvania Rankings:
- #15 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #14University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #7National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #13World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #15Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), with a history of over 150 years, has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional programs in engineering and physical sciences. Securing admission to MIT is highly competitive, and even undergraduate students have the opportunity to engage in research activities. Remarkably, MIT has consistently held the top spot in QS World University Ranking for 11 consecutive years. As a result, students with a passion for science, mathematics, and technology often choose MIT as their preferred destination for higher education.
In MIT’s two-year MBA program, students are required to complete a core curriculum and take 144 units of graduate elective subjects. The program emphasizes management science, equipping students with the skills to address organizational and performance challenges within a management framework.
The MBA curriculum offers maximum flexibility, enabling students to tailor their program according to their unique needs and career aspirations. Students have the freedom to choose their subjects independently, allowing them to design a program that offers both depths in specific areas of interest and a broad understanding of the field.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Rankings
- #3 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #5 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #2 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #1 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #2 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University
Northwestern University, established in 1851, is a renowned private research university that offers innovative research and excellent teaching. With a rich history, the university has grown significantly over the years, boasting over 3,000 full-time faculty members and more than 21,000 students from around the globe.
The university has over 10 schools and colleges, and its graduates are highly sought after by world-renowned recruiters such as Amazon, Google, IBM, and Citibank. Northwestern’s reputation for quality education and top ranking has made it a popular choice for students seeking admission to study in the USA.
Northwestern University’s MBA program is intended to expand students’ business knowledge and equip them with new abilities and insights to re-enter the workforce. Through a demanding curriculum and guidance from exceptional faculty, students will gain leadership skills and create a network of support.
Students have the option to specialize in Accounting, Economics, Finance, Managing Organizations, Marketing, Operations, and Strategy. Upon graduation, students can pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including Consulting, Consumer Products, Energy, and Financial Services.
Northwestern University Rankings:
- #30 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #26 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #24 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #32 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #10 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Columbia Business School, Columbia University
Columbia Business School, Columbia University is in 7th number on our list of top 20 business schools for MBA programs in the USA for the year 2023-2024.
Columbia University holds the distinction of being the oldest university in New York and one of the oldest in the entire United States. It has gained immense recognition as a global research hub, making significant contributions to various fields of study.
With its consistently high rankings, Columbia stands among the top universities worldwide according to global ranking providers. This esteemed reputation attracts a considerable number of international students, with thousands of applications pouring in each year from over 150 countries.
At Columbia Business School, students have a set of courses they must take called the core curriculum. These courses are taught by experts in the field and provide the skills necessary for students to analyze, make decisions, and lead in various situations.
One unique aspect of the program is that qualified students can start in January and complete their degree in just 16 months, allowing them to skip the summer internship. In addition to the required core courses, students have the freedom to choose from a wide variety of elective courses to complete their degree.
Columbia University Rankings:
- #8 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #11 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #18 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #22 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #7 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Haas School of Business Berkeley Campus, University of California
Located in Berkeley, California, the University of California, Berkeley is a renowned public research university. As of Fall 2022, the university had a total enrollment of 45,307 students. Among them, 7,968 were international students, with 4,006 enrolled as undergraduates and 3,962 as graduate students. The university maintains a competitive acceptance rate of 14.4%, with a lower rate of 9% for international students.
UC Berkeley has consistently achieved high rankings from reputable sources, establishing itself as a top-tier institution. Popular majors at the university include Social Sciences, Computer and Information Sciences, Support Services, and Engineering. Prospective students aiming for admission to UC Berkeley typically strive for a minimum GPA of 3.4.
The curriculum of the Berkeley MBA Program is built upon the foundational principles of general management, covering essential areas like finance, marketing, strategy, and organizational behavior. Through a combination of core and elective courses, students have the chance to develop and refine their innovative leadership abilities. They also have access to applied innovation opportunities and engage in various student activities, including clubs and conferences.
In addition, students can take part in the Haas and Columbia Exchange Program, which offers a unique experience by leveraging Columbia University’s location near Wall Street, as well as the vibrant media and entertainment industries in New York. This program provides valuable exposure and networking opportunities in these dynamic sectors.
The University of California Rankings:
- #5 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #8 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #20 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #27 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #4 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Michigan Ross School of Business, University of Michigan (U-M)
Situated in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the University of Michigan (UMich or Michigan) is a public research university. With a vast student body of over 51,000, the university attracts a diverse community, including 8,861 international students from over 130 countries.
These international students contribute to more than 17% of the university’s total student population, fostering a rich multicultural environment. UMich has consistently held its position within the top 25 universities worldwide since 2019, showcasing its commitment to academic excellence and global recognition.
The Full-Time MBA program at Michigan Ross offers a dynamic and challenging path for individuals aspiring to become impactful leaders. Students acquire essential business skills, strategic frameworks, and critical thinking abilities necessary for success. To earn their degree, Ross Full-Time MBA students must complete a total of 57 credits over a span of two years. This comprehensive program equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to make a positive difference in the world.
The University of Michigan Rankings:
- #28 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #23 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #19 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #25 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #25 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Stern School of Business, New York University
New York University (NYU), established in 1831, is a renowned private research university that has consistently pushed the boundaries of higher education. It stands out as a sought-after institution, recognized for its strong emphasis on networking and its diverse platforms for teaching, research, and problem-solving. NYU is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Leonard N. Stern School of Business offers a two-year MBA program, where students can choose up to three specializations from over 20 options. Specialization options include Accounting, Banking, Business Analytics, Corporate Finance, Digital Marketing, Economics, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, FinTech, and many more.
The program covers various courses, such as Financial Accounting & Reporting, Statistics & Data Analysis, Firms & Markets, Foundations of Finance, and The Global Economy.
New York University Rankings:
- #25 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #24 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #25 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #39 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #31 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Fuqua School of Business, Duke University
Duke University, a renowned private research institution located in Durham, USA, has a rich history dating back to its roots as the Union Institute Academy in 1838. Originally known as Normal College and later renamed Trinity College, it received a significant financial boost from the Duke Endowment in 1924.
This generous contribution led to its transformation into Duke University, named after Washington Duke. The campus, designed in a captivating Gothic style by the architectural firm Horace Trumbauer, has been a symbol of the university’s growth in both academic excellence and impactful research endeavors.
Duke University, USA offers an MBA program consisting of six terms and a total of 17 courses. The program encompasses a core curriculum with 10 courses, along with three multi-term courses that delve into the dynamics of global business. Additionally, students can choose four elective courses to tailor their learning experience. Furthermore, the program provides five concentration options, allowing students to specialize in specific areas of interest. Notably, the curriculum also offers a certificate in Health Sector Management, providing valuable insights into this particular industry.
Duke University Rankings:
- #31 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #25 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #10 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #50 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #25 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Anderson School of Management, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Located in Los Angeles, California, the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) is a prestigious public research university. Renowned for its academic excellence, UCLA holds the distinction of being ranked as the top public university in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in 2023.
With a vibrant international community, UCLA welcomes over 5,000 students from over 100 countries, making it a global hub of diversity and cultural exchange. Undoubtedly, UCLA is recognized as one of the world’s premier universities, offering exceptional educational opportunities.
At UCLA Anderson School of Management, USA students can pursue a full-time MBA program that places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills and effective communication. One unique feature of the program is the option for customized core sequencing, enabling students to strategically arrange their key courses to efficiently prepare for internship interviews. This tailored approach ensures that students are well-prepared and equipped to excel in their professional journeys.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Rankings:
- #13 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #21 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #20 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #44 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #14 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Yale School of Management, Yale University
Yale University has a rich history that dates back to the 1640s when religious leaders in the American colonies worked towards creating a college that embraced the ideals of European liberal education. With the adoption of a charter by the Connecticut legislature in 1701, the vision became a reality as the Collegiate School was established.
Eventually, in 1718, the school was officially renamed Yale College, paying tribute to Elihu Yale, a generous benefactor who contributed funds, books, and even a portrait of King George I. This historic journey led to the establishment of Yale University as we know it today.
The Yale School of Management, USA MBA program equips students with the expertise and mindset to thrive in a competitive worldwide economy. The program’s core curriculum centers on modern organizational operations and teaches students how to comprehend and analyze comprehensive information to make informed judgments. Leadership insights are woven throughout the curriculum, incorporating the most up-to-date ideas.
Yale University Rankings:
- #11 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #9 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #3 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #18 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #11 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College
Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League university situated in Hanover, New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to 1769. Founded by Eleazar Wheelock, it aimed to educate Native American and English youth. The college was officially established through a charter signed by John Wentworth, the Royal Governor of New Hampshire.
Dartmouth is renowned for its Tuck School of Business, the first graduate school of management globally. Additionally, Dartmouth holds the distinction of being the first university to offer a graduate degree in health care delivery science.
The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, USA provides a 2-year MBA program that offers a unique learning experience with a small student body, residential living, and access to top-notch faculty.
The program emphasizes an integrated core curriculum covering various disciplines such as analytics, finance, economics, marketing, organizational behavior, strategy, communications, and operations, all designed to complement each other and provide students with a well-rounded education.
Dartmouth College Rankings:
- #301-400 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #123 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #261 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #205 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #12 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University, situated in Pittsburgh, USA, is a renowned private research institution. It has earned a reputation as a world leader in fostering successful startup ventures. Notable alumni include James Gosling, the creator of the Java programming language.
The university has also formed valuable partnerships with global companies like Uber, Google, and Disney, who actively seek out Carnegie graduates for employment opportunities.
Tepper School of Business, USA offers a Full-Time MBA program that has gained recognition as one of the top 20 MBA programs worldwide. It stands out for its focus on leadership and analytics.
The program boasts a close-knit community with small class sizes, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and excellence. The unique advantage of Tepper School MBAs lies in their ability to combine strong leadership skills with analytical expertise, giving them a competitive edge in their careers.
Carnegie Mellon University Rankings:
- #101-150 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #28 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #118 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #52 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #22 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
SC Johnson College of Business, Cornell University
Situated in Ithaca, New York, Cornell University is a prestigious Ivy League Research University known for its private ownership. With a wide range of academic offerings, Cornell University boasts over 100 departments that collectively provide around 4,000 courses.
Popular majors at Cornell include Engineering, Business, Computer & Information Sciences, Economics, Political Science & Government, and more. In Fall 2021, the university welcomed a total of 25,582 students, with 15,503 undergraduates representing various states and over 120 countries. International students constituted approximately 10% of the undergraduate population.
The Two-Year MBA program at Johnson, which is recognized for its STEM designation, offers a distinctive curriculum that combines leadership development, access to Cornell Tech programs in New York City, USA, and a mandatory summer internship.
This designation highlights the program’s focus on management science, data analytics, technology, and other essential disciplines for modern business leadership. It provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that integrates business and STEM fields, preparing them for success in today’s evolving business landscape.
Cornell University Rankings:
- #12 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #20 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #17 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #20 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #21 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Kenan-Flagler Business School, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Dating back to 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been providing undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral education, making it the first public university in the US to confer degrees. Its academic portfolio includes a variety of fields, with the addition of graduate degrees starting in 1876, including a renowned pharmaceutical program and a law school.
The university’s academic footprint continued to expand with the inception of the School of Education in 1915, followed by the School of Commerce in 1919. In recognition of its academic excellence, UNC Chapel Hill became a member of the Association of American Universities in 1922. The university’s School of Journalism and School of Nursing commenced their educational journey in 1950.
Renowned for its global standing as the 7th top-ranked university according to Bloomberg Businessweek, the UNC Kenan-Flagler program cultivates invaluable skills and capabilities that are in high demand. Graduates emerge from the program equipped with enhanced self-awareness, adept at conflict management, skilled in delegation and empowerment, and ready to spearhead transformative change.
The MBA program offers a diverse range of concentrations to choose from, including Management Consulting, Marketing, Real Estate, Operations Management, Corporate Finance, Capital Markets and Investments, Entrepreneurship, Energy, Healthcare, and Sustainable Enterprise.
The University of North Carolina Rankings:
- #29 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #69 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #29 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #102 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #41 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
McCombs School of Business, The University of Texas at Austin
Situated in Austin, Texas, the University of Texas at Austin is a public research institution. Initially, it commenced its educational journey with a solitary building, a team of eight professors, and a student body of 221.
However, it has since evolved into a dynamic and ambitious institution, fostering the academic growth of approximately 52,000 students from diverse backgrounds. With the support of a dedicated faculty of 3,000, the university boasts exceptional national programs spanning 18 colleges and schools. In the recent QS World Ranking of 2023, the University of Texas at Austin secured a respectable position at #72.
The University of Texas-Austin’s McCombs School of Business offers a postgraduate degree in Business Administration which is designed to develop influential business leaders. Specialization options: Business Government, Finance, Interdisciplinary, Management, Marketing, Operations & Analytics.
The University of Texas Rankings:
- #37 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #50 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #38 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #72 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #43 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
Kelley Business School, Indiana University
One of the best institutions in the US is Indiana University. A degree from Indiana University has a significant influence and is highly respected worldwide. The institution is a public university with several campuses spread out across the US.
- The Master of Business Administration degree is a 2-year program offered at Indiana University.
- The MBA at Kelley ranked #15 overall for Teaching Quality, Career Services, and Student Satisfaction under Bloomberg Business Week 2012.
Indiana University Rankings:
- #101-150 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #170 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #152 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
- #339 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #72 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
Darden School of Business, University of Virginia
Darden School of Business, University of Virginia is in the last of our list of 20 top business schools for the MBA degree in the USA.
The University of Virginia or commonly known as UVA was founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson who was the third President of the United States. UVA is a public university, whose main campus is located in Charlottesville which is in Central Virginia.
The Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia, USA provides a highly regarded two-year full-time MBA program, recognized as the top-ranked program by Financial Times. The program’s core curriculum offers a unique and intensive learning experience centered around real-life business cases, equipping students with the ability to navigate complex situations even with limited information.
In the second year, students have the opportunity to further refine their career goals and tailor their education to match their professional interests, gaining in-demand skills that align with their chosen career paths.
The University of Virginia Rankings:
- #201-300 Universities Rankings- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2022
- #156 University Ranking- THE (Times Higher Education) 2023
- #25 National University Ranking- US News & World Report 2023
- #253 World University Ranking- QS 2023
- #119 Global Universities- US News & World Report 2023
In conclusion…
These are the top 20 business schools for MBA programs in the USA. You can evaluate the best business school or university for you by comparing the universities’ characteristics and their rankings.
I wish you find the right business school for your dream MBA degree from these mentioned best business schools for MBA programs in the USA for the years 2023-2024.
Sources: