Business and business management are among the top courses studied in elite institutions today. Their popularity can be traced to as far back as the origin of formal education itself. In other words, business studies have maintained their relevance over the years.
Since then, it is even more applicable with each passing year because of the opportunities the field of business offers. This fact is made evident in the significant number of business programs available today.
Students who wish to major in business and any of its administration specialties now have various institutions to choose from. Even if you do not wish to pursue your business degree in a business-focused university, many other higher institutions offer majors in business under a broader umbrella. However, it is important to seek advice and college admission counseling from professional counselors before selecting an institution and a business major.
Here’s a list of the top business schools (in no particular order) for undergraduates and students who wish to major in business management. Review this list and see if any of these top schools should be on your list!
1. University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton School
The Wharton School of Business is the nation’s first school of business as well as the University of Pennsylvania’s most prestigious college. Though it is extremely competitive and expensive, a degree from Wharton will yield endless opportunities. All undergraduates receive a B.S. in Economics with a concentration in one of 20+ areas of study.
Additionally, these concentrations cover nearly every business-related area of study. Furthermore, Wharton is highly ranked in an extensive list of programs including accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, insurance, international business, management, management information systems, marketing, operation management, quantitative analysis, and real estate.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 7%
- SAT Range: 1500-1570
- ACT Range: 34-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $26,123 / year
2. University of California Berkeley – Haas School of Business
The Haas School of Business is one of the most competitive undergraduate business programs to enter. UC Berkeley itself is already very difficult to get into but to get accepted to Haas, you have to apply during your sophomore year of college and beat out ~50% of other Haas applicants at UC Berkeley.
Nonetheless, this process produces elite business students who obtain highly successful careers in business after graduation. Haas has top-tier courses in international business, management, marketing, and real estate.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- SAT Range: 1310-1530
- ACT Range: 30-35
- Application Fee: $70
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Not available
- Net Price: $19,257 / year
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Sloan School of Management
MIT is most famous for its technical programs, but its Sloan School of Management is just as notable. At Sloan, you can choose to major or double major in management, business analytics, or finance. Not only that, each of these programs is very respected and extremely competitive.
MIT offers a unique academic calendar with a four-week Independent Activities Period in January, which includes special courses, lectures, competitions, and projects. This period provides students with the opportunity to explore new interests and engage in unique learning experiences outside the traditional curriculum.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 4%
- SAT Range: 1530-1580
- ACT Range: 35-36
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $20,232 / year
4. New York University – Stern School of Business
NYU is perhaps most known for the Stern School of Business. Located right in Manhattan, the school sits in arguably the world’s most important city for business and finance. Furthermore, Stern offers a unique educational experience by coupling business courses with liberal arts and international immersion electives. Stern is rarely bested in finance, international business, and marketing opportunities.
Stern’s undergraduate program emphasizes practical experience and global perspectives. Students can engage in study abroad programs and internships, benefiting from Stern’s strong connections with the business community.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- SAT Range: 1470-1570
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $80
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $29,499 / year
5. Carnegie Mellon University – Tepper School of Business
Carnegie Mellon University is a highly technical school; this is reflected in Tepper’s analytic approach to business. CMU offers two business programs. So, students choose between a B.A. in business administration or a B.S. in computational finance. However, Tepper’s strong suits are management information systems, operation management, and quantitative analysis.
The Tepper School of Business emphasizes a rigorous, data-driven approach, integrating technology and analytics into its curriculum. Students benefit from the mini-semester system, which allows for intensive 6.5-week classes, providing flexibility and depth in their studies. Tepper also offers joint degree programs, international experiences through Global Treks, and a variety of electives to tailor their education.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- SAT Range: 1490-1570
- ACT Range: 34-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
6. Cornell University
Cornell is the only Ivy League school, other than the University of Pennsylvania, to offer an undergraduate business program. Cornell’s business program is divided into three schools: the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, the School of Hotel Administration, and the SC Johnson School of Business.
Most business undergraduates attend Dyson. Dyson offers many unique concentrations such as food industry management and agribusiness management that are perfect if you don’t plan on going down a typical business path.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 7%
- SAT Range: 1470-1570
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $80
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $26,060 / year
7. University of Michigan – Ross School of Business
The Ross School of Business at Ann Arbor offers a unique type of curriculum called “Merge.” This curriculum starts students on a wide range of standard curricula and then allows students to focus on what they choose by requiring a senior capstone assignment.
The Ross School of Business is the most elite school at the University of Michigan and has world-class programs in management, marketing, and supply chain management.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- SAT Range: 1310-1530
- ACT Range: 30-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $26,123 / year
8. University of Notre Dame – Mendoza College of Business
The Mendoza College of Business applies a holistic approach to business. The curriculum pairs strong business classes with liberal arts, science, and theology classes. The Mendoza School aims to create strong business leaders by developing well-rounded students.
In addition to its comprehensive undergraduate offerings, Mendoza provides a range of specialized master’s programs designed to meet the needs of today’s dynamic business environment. These include the M.S. in Accountancy, M.S. in Business Analytics, M.S. in Finance, M.S. in Management, and Master of Nonprofit Administration. Each program emphasizes ethical leadership, analytical rigor, and a commitment to serving the greater good, preparing students to excel in various sectors.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 13%
- SAT Range: 1450-1550
- ACT Range: 32-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Not available
- Net Price: $28,474 / year
9. Washington University in St. Louis – Olin Business School
The Olin Business School aims to produce business leaders by providing realistic experiences such as business competitions and conducting business case studies. Furthermore, Olin has a sizable study abroad program in which more than 60% of students participate.
The school features an extensive array of specialized master’s programs, including those in accounting, business analytics, finance, and supply chain management, each designed to equip students with industry-focused knowledge and skills. With six on-campus research centers, students have numerous opportunities to engage in hands-on projects and collaborative research.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- SAT Range: 1500-1570
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $23,432 / year
10. The University of Texas at Austin – McCombs School of Business
McCombs offers 10 majors to choose from including the #1 ranked accounting school on several lists. McCombs is also one of the largest undergraduate business schools, as they have nearly 5,000 undergraduate students.
The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in business principles while allowing students to tailor their studies through over 100 elective courses and various concentrations. McCombs emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world projects, internships, and global study programs. The school’s extensive network of research centers and connections with prominent companies offer students valuable insights and hands-on experiences, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 31%
- SAT Range: 1230-1500
- ACT Range: 26-33
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: No
- Net Price: $17,434 / year
11. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill – Kenan-Flagler Business School
Kenan-Flagler offers a range of business majors, including top programs in accounting, business analytics, finance, and marketing. The school focuses on leadership development and hands-on learning through simulations and business projects, such as the Real Estate Investment Management program and Global Entrepreneurship Lab. The curriculum combines core courses with electives, allowing students to tailor their education.
The first year covers foundational courses, while the second year focuses on concentrations. The school also offers a Master of Accounting program, both on-campus and online, and a Ph.D. program. Kenan-Flagler boasts a strong alumni network of 37,000 worldwide, including notable CEOs like Michele Buck of The Hershey Company. Students can join over 40 MBA clubs and organizations, enhancing their networking and practical experience.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 17%
- SAT Range: 1350-1530
- ACT Range: 30-34
- Application Fee: $85
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $10,614 / year
12. Indiana University, Bloomington – Kelley School of Business
Looking for a business school that emphasizes real-world experience and leadership development? The Kelley School of Business offers a variety of majors, including accounting, business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing. Kelley emphasizes leadership and teamwork through its integrated curriculum, beginning with a 1.5-semester core that covers 11 key business functions. Students can then customize their studies with various STEM-designated majors or create their own.
Kelley provides a range of programs, including full-time and online MBAs, specialized master’s degrees in information systems and accounting, and joint degrees with the Maurer School of Law and other departments. Alumni include notable figures like John Chambers, former CEO of Cisco Systems, and Jimmy Wales, co-founder of Wikipedia.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 82%
- SAT Range: 1180-1400
- ACT Range: 27-32
- Application Fee: $65
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $16,234 / year
13. University of Southern California – Marshall School of Business
Highly selective (12% acceptance rate) and known for its focus on innovation and ethics, Marshall School of Business offers a comprehensive MBA program designed to groom future leaders. The program emphasizes customization, allowing students to tailor their studies after a strong foundation is built in the first semester.
Marshall boasts a robust alumni network and an impressive employment rate (81.2% of graduates employed at graduation). Marshall’s MBA program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a rapidly changing economic, social, and political world. The school also offers various other programs, including part-time and executive MBAs, and specialized master’s degrees. With a strong focus on practical experience, Marshall graduates are well-prepared for successful careers.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- SAT Range: 1450-1550
- ACT Range: 32-35
- Application Fee: $85
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $36,808 / year
14. Georgetown University – McDonough School of Business
The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University offers diverse departments and concentrations, including accounting, business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and supply chain management. McDonough emphasizes global perspectives, ethical leadership, and teamwork, encouraging students to engage in real-world business simulations through required team-based residencies.
The school offers various programs, including full-time, evening, and executive MBAs, along with joint degrees in collaboration with Georgetown’s Law Center, School of Medicine, Public Policy Institute, and School of Foreign Service. Extracurricular activities are highly encouraged, with over 30 MBA-related organizations and events like Global Diversity Day.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- SAT Range: 1410-1560
- ACT Range: 32-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $35,566 / year
15. University of Virginia – McIntire School of Commerce
A standout option for undergraduate business education, the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce offers a top-ranked program (#4 in the US by Poets & Quants in 2024) with a unique two-year structure for third and fourth-year UVA students. You’ll delve into practical applications of business knowledge through the core curriculum’s Integrated Core Experience, where you’ll collaborate in teams to tackle real problems for Fortune 500 companies.
McIntire also fosters a global perspective, with the Master’s in Global Commerce program offering a one-of-a-kind three-continent experience. No matter your chosen program, expect a strong emphasis on international business. Keep in mind that admission is competitive, with an acceptance rate of only 19%. But if you’re looking for a highly-ranked program that emphasizes practical skills, teamwork, and a global perspective, McIntire School of Commerce is a great choice.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 19%
- SAT Range: 1400-1540
- ACT Range: 32-34
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $19,469 / year
16. University of Florida – Warrington College of Business
Seeking a business degree that prioritizes practicality and career prep? Look no further than the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida! Warrington tailors your education with concentrations like finance or marketing, ensuring you graduate with in-demand skills. Their focus on experiential learning through case competitions and real-world projects gets you ready to impress employers from day one.
Plus, UF boasts an impressive 84.5% graduate employment rate. While the program offers a competitive tuition rate (especially for in-state students), keep in mind that admissions are selective (23% acceptance rate) and strong academics are essential (SAT/ACT required).
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- SAT Range: 1300-1490
- ACT Range: 28-33
- Application Fee: $30
- SAT/ACT: Required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: No
- Net Price: $11,740 / year
17. Boston College – Carroll School of Management
The Carroll School of Management at Boston College offers a robust selection of departments and concentrations, preparing students for successful careers across various business disciplines. The school emphasizes a comprehensive MBA experience that integrates small class sizes and carefully structured courses with extensive experiential learning opportunities.
Graduates of the full-time program enjoy a high employment rate of 77.90% at graduation, reflecting the school’s commitment to preparing students for the competitive business landscape. Small, collaborative classes focus on foundational principles applicable across industries, fostering a community of learning, personal growth, and professional advancement. Boston College’s MSF and MSA programs provide additional flexibility tailored to individual academic and career goals, ensuring students acquire the skills and insights necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- SAT Range: 1430-1540
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $80
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $30,559 / year
18. Emory University – Goizueta Business School
Emory’s Goizueta Business School flips the script on traditional MBAs. Forget impersonal lectures in giant halls. Here, it’s all about a close-knit community (think 11% acceptance rate!). You’ll forge strong bonds with classmates who could become your future business network, all while getting personalized attention from professors.
Located in Atlanta, a vibrant hub, Goizueta lets you learn from the best while gaining real-world experience with real companies. Feeling adventurous? International business programs let you expand your horizons. This focus on personalization extends to your coursework. Choose from concentrations that fit your interests, whether it’s finance or healthcare administration. Goizueta even offers STEM-designated Master’s programs that blend business with data science, making you a hot commodity in the job market. The cost might seem high at first glance, but the average net price is lower ($26,680/year).
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- SAT Range: 1430-1550
- ACT Range: 32-34
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Neither required nor recommended
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $26,680 / year
19. University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign – Gies College of Business
University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business is all about action learning. Their program prioritizes real-world application through team-based projects with real companies each semester. This “learning by doing” approach, combined with a heavy emphasis on data analytics, equips you with the skills to succeed in today’s data-driven business world. Gies also leverages the University’s strengths in technology and innovation, ensuring your education stays cutting-edge.
Plus, they actively participate in national case competitions, giving you valuable experience and sharpening your managerial skills. While Gies carries a strong reputation, the acceptance rate is more achievable (45%) and the average net price is lower than the national average ($14,544/year), making it a solid investment in your business future.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- SAT Range: 1320-1510
- ACT Range: 29-34
- Application Fee: $50
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Neither required nor recommended
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $14,544 / year
20. Ohio State University – Fisher College of Business
Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business can be your launchpad to a successful business career. Their Full-Time MBA goes beyond academics, offering personalized coaching to hone your leadership skills and one-on-one career guidance to land your dream job. The program boasts a focus on practical skills and real-world application, ensuring you graduate decision-ready.
Fisher also boasts specialized Master’s programs in Accounting, Human Resources, Analytics, and Finance, designed to make you an expert in your chosen field. While Fisher carries a strong reputation, the acceptance rate (53%) and average net price ($19,582/year) are more achievable, making it a valuable investment in your future. If you’re looking for a personalized approach and practical business education, Fisher College of Business is worth considering.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- SAT Range: 1310-1480
- ACT Range: 29-32
- Application Fee: $60
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $19,582 / year
21. University of Wisconsin, Madison – Wisconsin School of Business
Forget all-theory business schools! Wisconsin-Madison’s program blends a strong core with your choice of specialization (think business analytics or real estate). Plus, they focus on real-world learning through internships, projects, and workshops. Their “Ignite” program even lets you tackle real business problems.
They also offer personalized learning with electives and advisors to guide you. Want to deep-dive in a specific area? They’ve got one-year Master’s programs and certificates. The acceptance rate is achievable (49%) and the cost is lower than average ($13,376/year), with a whopping 70.4% of grads landing jobs. Sounds like a good fit for a hands-on business education, right?
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 49%
- SAT Range: 1340-1510
- ACT Range: 26-32
- Application Fee: $60
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $13,376 / year
22. Pennsylvania State University – Smeal College of Business
The Smeal College of Business at Pennsylvania State University – University Park offers a diverse range of departments and concentrations, including accounting, business analytics, consulting, entrepreneurship, finance, general management, healthcare administration, leadership, marketing, production/operations management, real estate, supply chain management/logistics, and quantitative analysis/statistics and operations research. At graduation, 92.10 percent of graduates from the full-time program are employed.
Smeal’s MBA program features a robust core curriculum with multiple concentrations, allowing students to customize their education to fit their career goals. The program includes experiential learning through internships, case competitions, and industry projects, providing practical skills and knowledge. Smeal’s strong alumni network and industry connections help students secure top employment opportunities.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- SAT Range: 1500-1570
- ACT Range: 34-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $26,123 / year
23. University of Maryland, College Park – Robert H. Smith School of Business
The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland offers a variety of concentrations including accounting, business analytics, finance, marketing, and supply chain management. Tuition for the full-time MBA program is $102,029 for in-state students and $123,494 for out-of-state students, with part-time and executive MBA options available. At graduation, 72.6% of full-time program graduates are employed.
Students can choose from flexible MBA programs, full-time, part-time, or executive, tailored for different career stages. The executive MBA is a 19-month program for experienced managers, while specialized master’s degrees are available in finance, accounting, information systems, and supply chain management. Hands-on learning is emphasized through various labs and the Mayer Fund, focusing on securities analysis and portfolio management.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- SAT Range: 1360-1520
- ACT Range: 30-34
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Net Price: $16,210/year
24. Texas A&M University – Mays Business School
Texas A&M’s Mays Business School gets you ready for the ever-changing business world. Their program emphasizes tackling global challenges, navigating regulations, and using technology to your advantage. Their full-time MBA program is capped at 80 students, allowing for individual attention. Plus, you can complete it in 16 months or customize your path for a longer experience. They also offer a variety of Master’s programs and even a Ph.D. for those wanting to dive deeper.
Mays prioritizes real-world application, so expect practical experiences alongside rigorous academics. With a strong alumni network of over 40,000 graduates worldwide, you’ll gain valuable connections after graduation. The cost may vary depending on your residency, but the average net price is competitive. With its focus on practical skills and strong alumni network, Mays Business School could be a smart investment for your business future.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 63%
- SAT Range: 1150-1390
- ACT Range: 25-31
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: No
- Net Price: $20,375/year
25. Babson College – F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business
The F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College emphasizes entrepreneurialism and global business. It offers concentrations in accounting, business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, international business, marketing, management information systems, and quantitative analysis. The Babson Consulting Experience is a key part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience. Located in Babson Park, Mass., near Boston, and with a campus in Miami for the blended learning MBA, Babson offers proximity to major cities and global networks. Notable alumni include Akio Toyoda and Andrew Heath.
Babson’s MBA program can be completed in 12 or 21 months, comprising 45 credits, with two-thirds as electives. The school offers seven unique concentrations, including two STEM-designated ones. Specialized master’s programs include MS in Finance and MS in Business Analytics, both STEM-designated, with 9- and 16-month options for those with 0-3+ years of work experience.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 22%
- SAT Range: 1350-1510
- ACT Range: 30-33
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Net Price: $28,400 / year (National Average: $15,523)
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