Anderson and Johnson are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Johnson holds a stronger US News ranking. Anderson reports a higher median base salary. Anderson offers lower annual tuition, and Anderson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Anderson is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Anderson | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #182026 | #152026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #162024 | #182024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #242025 | #272025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #112025 | #222025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $65,049 | $71,940 |
| Median Base Salary | $172,000 | $170,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 561% | 491% |
| Class Size | 360 | 297 |
| Acceptance Rate | 25.0% | 27.0% |
| Median GMAT | 714 | 710 |
| 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.
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.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Johnson 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.
Anderson is more selective with a 25.0% acceptance rate, compared to 27.0% for Johnson.
Anderson reports a median base salary of $172,000, while Johnson reports $170,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Anderson annual tuition is $65,049 and Johnson is $71,940. Anderson offers a 6,891 lower annual cost.
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