Johnson and Kenan-Flagler 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. Kenan-Flagler offers lower annual tuition, and Kenan-Flagler delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Johnson is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Johnson | Kenan-Flagler |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #152026 | #212026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #182024 | #202024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #272025 | #402025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #222025 | #362025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $71,940 | $47,692 |
| Median Base Salary | $170,000 | $162,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 491% | 749% |
| Class Size | 297 | 316 |
| Acceptance Rate | 27.0% | 31.0% |
| Median GMAT | 710 | 700 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
UNC Kenan-Flagler offers outstanding value as a public MBA program. Known for its collaborative culture and strong placements in consulting and finance, the school also excels in real estate and sustainable enterprise education.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Johnson ranks higher in US News, but Kenan-Flagler delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 749%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Johnson is more selective with a 27.0% acceptance rate, compared to 31.0% for Kenan-Flagler.
Johnson reports a median base salary of $170,000, while Kenan-Flagler reports $162,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Johnson annual tuition is $71,940 and Kenan-Flagler is $47,692. Kenan-Flagler offers a 24,248 lower annual cost.
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