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.
With a class size of 130 students, Jones offers a small, intimate learning environment. The program's 33.0% acceptance rate makes it a competitive but accessible top-tier program.
Graduates report a median starting salary of $153,000, yielding an estimated 5-year ROI of approximately 427% after accounting for two years of tuition at $72,560 per year.
How Jones ranks according to each major business school ranking.
| Source | US News | BBW |
|---|---|---|
| Rank | #28 | #34 |
| Year | 2026 | 2024 |
Track how Jones's ranking has changed over time in each major publication.
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2026 | #28— |
| 2025 | #28— |
| 2024 | #28▲ 2 |
| 2023 | #30▲ 1 |
| 2022 | #31▼ 4 |
| 2021 | #27— |
| 2020 | #27— |
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2024 | #34▲ 3 |
| 2022 | #37▼ 1 |
| 2020 | #36— |
Rankings data compiled from official publications. Global rankings (FT, QS) include international business schools, so positions may differ from US-only lists.