Owen and GSB are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. GSB holds a stronger US News ranking. GSB reports a higher median base salary. Owen offers lower annual tuition, and GSB delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Owen is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Owen | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #352026 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #472024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $70,728 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $148,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 423% | 497% |
| Class Size | 185 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 38.0% | 6.1% |
| Median GMAT | 668 | 738 |
| 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.
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.
Stanford Graduate School of Business is the most selective MBA program globally, with an acceptance rate below 7%. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, GSB is the top choice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. Its small class size fosters deep relationships and personalized education.
GSB is a top M7 program; Owen is a highly ranked T15 school. GSB ranks higher in US News, but GSB delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 497%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Owen is more selective with a 38.0% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
Owen reports a median base salary of $148,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Owen annual tuition is $70,728 and GSB is $82,455. Owen offers a 11,727 lower annual cost.
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