Marshall and Wharton are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Wharton holds a stronger US News ranking. Wharton reports a higher median base salary. Marshall offers lower annual tuition, and Wharton delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Wharton is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Marshall | Wharton |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #252026 | #22026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #192024 | #22024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #382025 | #32025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #262025 | #22025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $66,640 | $84,830 |
| Median Base Salary | $165,000 | $248,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 519% | 631% |
| Class Size | 228 | 918 |
| Acceptance Rate | 26.0% | 19.2% |
| Median GMAT | 708 | 733 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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Want context on the metrics above? These guides break down how to read the numbers — rankings methodology, salary distributions, and ROI math.
USC Marshall leverages its Los Angeles location and powerful Trojan alumni network. The school is particularly strong in entertainment, entrepreneurship, and international business. Marshall's global orientation attracts a diverse student body.
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Known for its rigorous finance curriculum and extensive alumni network, Wharton consistently ranks at the top of MBA rankings. The school offers unparalleled access to Wall Street and a collaborative learning environment.
Wharton is a top M7 program; Marshall is a highly ranked T15 school. Wharton ranks higher in US News, but Wharton delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 631%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Wharton is more selective with a 19.2% acceptance rate, compared to 26.0% for Marshall.
Marshall reports a median base salary of $165,000, while Wharton reports $248,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Marshall annual tuition is $66,640 and Wharton is $84,830. Marshall offers a 18,190 lower annual cost.
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