Foster and Jones are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Foster holds a stronger US News ranking. Jones reports a higher median base salary. Foster offers lower annual tuition, and Foster delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Foster is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Foster | Jones |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #262026 | #282026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #292024 | #342024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $67,596 | $72,560 |
| Median Base Salary | $145,000 | $153,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 436% | 427% |
| Class Size | 204 | 130 |
| Acceptance Rate | 19.0% | 33.0% |
| 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.
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.
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. Foster ranks higher in US News, but Foster delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 436%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Foster is more selective with a 19.0% acceptance rate, compared to 33.0% for Jones.
Foster reports a median base salary of $145,000, while Jones reports $153,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Foster annual tuition is $67,596 and Jones is $72,560. Foster offers a 4,964 lower annual cost.
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