Booth and Marshall are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Booth holds a stronger US News ranking. Booth reports a higher median base salary. Marshall offers lower annual tuition, and Marshall delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Booth is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Booth | Marshall |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #32026 | #252026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #72024 | #192024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | #382025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | #262025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $80,040 | $66,640 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $165,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 493% | 519% |
| Class Size | 614 | 228 |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.4% | 26.0% |
| Median GMAT | 730 | 708 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Chicago Booth is renowned for its flexible curriculum and analytical approach to business education. With a focus on data-driven decision-making and economic theory, Booth produces graduates who excel in consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship. The school is known for its intellectual rigor and diverse student body.
USC Marshall leverages its Los Angeles location and powerful Trojan alumni network. The school is particularly strong in entertainment, entrepreneurship, and international business. Marshall's global orientation attracts a diverse student body.
Booth is a top M7 program; Marshall is a highly ranked T15 school. Booth ranks higher in US News, but Marshall delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 519%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Booth is more selective with a 20.4% acceptance rate, compared to 26.0% for Marshall.
Booth reports a median base salary of $190,000, while Marshall reports $165,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Booth annual tuition is $80,040 and Marshall is $66,640. Marshall offers a 13,400 lower annual cost.
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