Owen 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. Owen offers lower annual tuition, and Ross delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Ross is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Owen | Ross |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #352026 | #132026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #472024 | #132024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #222025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #162025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $70,728 | $72,638 |
| Median Base Salary | $148,000 | $175,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 423% | 502% |
| Class Size | 185 | 425 |
| Acceptance Rate | 38.0% | 22.1% |
| Median GMAT | 668 | 720 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
The Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University is the Southeast's most research-intensive MBA program. Located in Nashville—one of America's fastest-growing cities—Owen offers exceptional access to healthcare, music/entertainment, and technology industries. Known for its collegial culture and strong consulting placement, Owen's small, selective program produces alumni who consistently outperform expectations relative to the school's ranking.
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 Ross delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 502%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Ross is more selective with a 22.1% acceptance rate, compared to 38.0% for Owen.
Owen reports a median base salary of $148,000, while Ross reports $175,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Owen annual tuition is $70,728 and Ross is $72,638. Owen offers a 1,910 lower annual cost.
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