Olin and Ross are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Ross holds a stronger US News ranking. Ross reports a higher median base salary. Olin offers lower annual tuition, and Olin delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Ross is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Olin | Ross |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #252025 | #132026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #242024 | #132024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #522025 | #222025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #462025 | #162025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $63,250 | $72,638 |
| Median Base Salary | $155,000 | $175,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 513% | 502% |
| Class Size | 155 | 425 |
| Acceptance Rate | 32.0% | 22.1% |
| Median GMAT | 694 | 720 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
Michigan Ross is known for its action-based learning approach, where students tackle real business challenges through MAP (Multidisciplinary Action Projects). Ross has strong placement in consulting, tech, and manufacturing, with a collaborative Midwest culture.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Ross 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.
Ross is more selective with a 22.1% acceptance rate, compared to 32.0% for Olin.
Olin reports a median base salary of $155,000, while Ross reports $175,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Olin annual tuition is $63,250 and Ross is $72,638. Olin offers a 9,388 lower annual cost.
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