Kellogg and Ross are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Kellogg holds a stronger US News ranking. Kellogg reports a higher median base salary. Ross offers lower annual tuition, and Ross delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Kellogg is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Kellogg | Ross |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #42026 | #132026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #62024 | #132024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #102025 | #222025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #82025 | #162025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $78,276 | $72,638 |
| Median Base Salary | $185,000 | $175,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 491% | 502% |
| Class Size | 500 | 425 |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.2% | 22.1% |
| Median GMAT | 727 | 720 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern is the birthplace of modern marketing education. Known for its collaborative culture, team-based learning, and strong emphasis on leadership development, Kellogg graduates are highly sought after in consulting and consumer goods industries.
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.
Kellogg is a top M7 program; Ross is a highly ranked T15 school. Kellogg 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.
Kellogg is more selective with a 20.2% acceptance rate, compared to 22.1% for Ross.
Kellogg reports a median base salary of $185,000, while Ross reports $175,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Kellogg annual tuition is $78,276 and Ross is $72,638. Ross offers a 5,638 lower annual cost.
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