Foster and Johnson are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Johnson holds a stronger US News ranking. Johnson reports a higher median base salary. Foster offers lower annual tuition, and Johnson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Foster is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Foster | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #262026 | #152026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #292024 | #182024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #272025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #222025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $67,596 | $71,940 |
| Median Base Salary | $145,000 | $170,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 436% | 491% |
| Class Size | 204 | 297 |
| Acceptance Rate | 19.0% | 27.0% |
| Median GMAT | 700 | 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.
The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington sits at the epicentre of the Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks ecosystem. With one of the highest percentages of tech-sector placements among Top 30 programs, Foster is the go-to MBA for professionals targeting Pacific Northwest tech and management consulting. Its selective 19% acceptance rate and strong value proposition—especially at in-state tuition—make it one of the most underrated programs in the country.
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 Johnson delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 491%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Foster is more selective with a 19.0% acceptance rate, compared to 27.0% for Johnson.
Foster reports a median base salary of $145,000, while Johnson reports $170,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Foster annual tuition is $67,596 and Johnson is $71,940. Foster offers a 4,344 lower annual cost.
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