Johnson and Owen 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. Owen offers lower annual tuition, and Johnson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Johnson is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Johnson | Owen |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #152026 | #352026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #182024 | #472024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #272025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #222025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $71,940 | $70,728 |
| Median Base Salary | $170,000 | $148,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 491% | 423% |
| Class Size | 297 | 185 |
| Acceptance Rate | 27.0% | 38.0% |
| Median GMAT | 710 | 668 |
| 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.
The Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University is the Southeast's most research-intensive MBA program. Located in Nashville—one of America's fastest-growing cities—Owen offers exceptional access to healthcare, music/entertainment, and technology industries. Known for its collegial culture and strong consulting placement, Owen's small, selective program produces alumni who consistently outperform expectations relative to the school's ranking.
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.
Johnson is more selective with a 27.0% acceptance rate, compared to 38.0% for Owen.
Johnson reports a median base salary of $170,000, while Owen reports $148,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Johnson annual tuition is $71,940 and Owen is $70,728. Owen offers a 1,212 lower annual cost.
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