Anderson and Jones are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Anderson 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 | Jones |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #182026 | #282026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #162024 | #342024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #242025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #112025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $65,049 | $72,560 |
| Median Base Salary | $172,000 | $153,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 561% | 427% |
| Class Size | 360 | 130 |
| Acceptance Rate | 25.0% | 33.0% |
| 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.
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.
The Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University is Houston's premier MBA program and one of the top energy MBA programs in the world. Its small class size (~130) ensures exceptional faculty access and tight alumni networks. Jones graduates excel in energy, consulting, and finance, with strong placement at energy majors (ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron), investment banks, and McKinsey/BCG/Bain. Located in the Texas Medical Center, it also has growing healthcare and biotech placement.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Anderson 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 33.0% for Jones.
Anderson reports a median base salary of $172,000, while Jones reports $153,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Anderson annual tuition is $65,049 and Jones is $72,560. Anderson offers a 7,511 lower annual cost.
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