Jones and Ross are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Ross holds a stronger US News ranking. Ross reports a higher median base salary. Jones offers lower annual tuition, and Ross delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Ross is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Jones | Ross |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #282026 | #132026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #342024 | #132024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #222025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #162025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $72,560 | $72,638 |
| Median Base Salary | $153,000 | $175,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 427% | 502% |
| Class Size | 130 | 425 |
| Acceptance Rate | 33.0% | 22.1% |
| Median GMAT | 710 | 720 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
Michigan Ross is known for its action-based learning approach, where students tackle real business challenges through MAP (Multidisciplinary Action Projects). Ross has strong placement in consulting, tech, and manufacturing, with a collaborative Midwest culture.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Ross ranks higher in US News, but Ross delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 502%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Ross is more selective with a 22.1% acceptance rate, compared to 33.0% for Jones.
Jones reports a median base salary of $153,000, while Ross reports $175,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Jones annual tuition is $72,560 and Ross is $72,638. Jones offers a 78 lower annual cost.
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