Johnson and Olin are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Johnson holds a stronger US News ranking. Johnson reports a higher median base salary. Olin offers lower annual tuition, and Olin delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Johnson is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Johnson | Olin |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #152026 | #252025 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #182024 | #242024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #272025 | #522025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #222025 | #462025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $71,940 | $63,250 |
| Median Base Salary | $170,000 | $155,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 491% | 513% |
| Class Size | 297 | 155 |
| Acceptance Rate | 27.0% | 32.0% |
| Median GMAT | 710 | 694 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Cornell Johnson sits within a research university renowned for hospitality, tech, and real estate. Johnson offers immersion learning through its semester-long deep dives into specific industries. Its Tech MBA program in New York City is a unique offering.
WashU Olin offers a rigorous, customizable MBA with strengths in healthcare, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. The school's strong corporate connections in the Midwest and intimate class sizes provide a personalized educational experience.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Johnson ranks higher in US News, but Olin delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 513%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Johnson is more selective with a 27.0% acceptance rate, compared to 32.0% for Olin.
Johnson reports a median base salary of $170,000, while Olin reports $155,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Johnson annual tuition is $71,940 and Olin is $63,250. Olin offers a 8,690 lower annual cost.
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