Anderson and Fuqua are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Fuqua holds a stronger US News ranking. Fuqua reports a higher median base salary. Anderson offers lower annual tuition, and Anderson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Fuqua is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Anderson | Fuqua |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #182026 | #142026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #162024 | #112024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #242025 | #182025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #112025 | #192025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $65,049 | $72,800 |
| Median Base Salary | $172,000 | $175,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 561% | 501% |
| Class Size | 360 | 440 |
| Acceptance Rate | 25.0% | 22.5% |
| Median GMAT | 714 | 719 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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Want context on the metrics above? These guides break down how to read the numbers — rankings methodology, salary distributions, and ROI math.
UCLA Anderson is a top choice for those looking to work in entertainment, real estate, and tech on the West Coast. Known for its entrepreneurial culture and strong alumni ties in Los Angeles, Anderson offers a high ROI given its public school tuition.
Duke Fuqua emphasizes leadership through its "Team Fuqua" culture. The school is known for its collaborative environment, strong healthcare and consulting placements, and global business curriculum. Fuqua's COLE (Cross Continent) program offers international immersion experiences.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Fuqua ranks higher in US News, but Anderson delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 561%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Fuqua is more selective with a 22.5% acceptance rate, compared to 25.0% for Anderson.
Anderson reports a median base salary of $172,000, while Fuqua reports $175,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Anderson annual tuition is $65,049 and Fuqua is $72,800. Anderson offers a 7,751 lower annual cost.
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