Fuqua and Johnson are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Fuqua holds a stronger US News ranking. Fuqua reports a higher median base salary. Johnson offers lower annual tuition, and Fuqua delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Fuqua is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Fuqua | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #142026 | #152026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #112024 | #182024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #182025 | #272025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #192025 | #222025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $72,800 | $71,940 |
| Median Base Salary | $175,000 | $170,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 501% | 491% |
| Class Size | 440 | 297 |
| Acceptance Rate | 22.5% | 27.0% |
| Median GMAT | 719 | 710 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Duke Fuqua emphasizes leadership through its "Team Fuqua" culture. The school is known for its collaborative environment, strong healthcare and consulting placements, and global business curriculum. Fuqua's COLE (Cross Continent) program offers international immersion experiences.
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. Fuqua ranks higher in US News, but Fuqua delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 501%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Fuqua is more selective with a 22.5% acceptance rate, compared to 27.0% for Johnson.
Fuqua reports a median base salary of $175,000, while Johnson reports $170,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Fuqua annual tuition is $72,800 and Johnson is $71,940. Johnson offers a 860 lower annual cost.
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