Columbia and Johnson are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Columbia holds a stronger US News ranking. Columbia reports a higher median base salary. Johnson offers lower annual tuition, and Johnson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Columbia is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Columbia | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #72026 | #152026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #92024 | #182024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | #272025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #72025 | #222025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $82,584 | $71,940 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $170,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 475% | 491% |
| Class Size | 850 | 297 |
| Acceptance Rate | 16.5% | 27.0% |
| Median GMAT | 729 | 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.
Columbia Business School leverages its New York City location to offer unmatched access to Wall Street, media, and real estate industries. Known for its value investing curriculum and strong ties to the financial industry, Columbia attracts ambitious professionals from around the world.
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.
Columbia is a top M7 program; Johnson is a highly ranked T15 school. Columbia ranks higher in US News, but Johnson delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 491%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Columbia is more selective with a 16.5% acceptance rate, compared to 27.0% for Johnson.
Columbia reports a median base salary of $190,000, while Johnson reports $170,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Columbia annual tuition is $82,584 and Johnson is $71,940. Johnson offers a 10,644 lower annual cost.
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