Rankings / Masters

Best Master's in Management

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$80,031

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

81%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,463

Avg. Net Price

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Considering a master's in management? You're in good company. Many students are looking for programs that not only offer a solid education but also lead to high-paying jobs after graduation. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these top programs is $80,956, a figure that highlights the potential return on investment.

What sets these schools apart are their graduate earnings, completion rates, and the burden of student debt. The data shows that programs with high graduation rates, like the University of Notre Dame at 96%, tend to correlate with strong post-graduation earnings. As you look at the list below, pay attention to these metrics—they provide a clearer picture of what you might expect after leaving the classroom.

Take CUNY Bernard M Baruch College and Babson College, for example. Baruch graduates earn an average of $75,971 with a net price of just $3,033, making it an affordable option. In contrast, Babson graduates earn significantly more at $123,938, but face a higher net price of $40,514. This illustrates the balance between cost and potential earnings that students need to consider.

Key Findings

Babson College graduates earn an average of $123,938, the highest in this list.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a low net price of $3,033, making it an affordable choice.

The average graduation rate among these top programs is 82%, indicating strong student support.

University of Notre Dame graduates enjoy a 96% graduation rate, highlighting their success.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $80,031

Avg. graduation rate 81%

Avg. net price $22,463

Avg. median debt $18,985

How We Ranked

Master's programs ranked by graduate earnings, mobility, and program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA

Graduation94%

Earnings$94,810

Net Price$23,781

View full profile →

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation93%

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

The Management master's program at CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College is designed for students eager to deepen their understanding of organizational dynamics and leadership in a bustling urban environment. Here, you will collaborate with a diverse cohort, gaining insights that blend practical management skills with real-world applications, preparing you for various roles in today's complex business landscape.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

At Washington and Lee University, the Management master's program cultivates future leaders by emphasizing ethical decision-making and strategic thinking. Students engage in rigorous coursework and collaborative projects, preparing them for high-stakes environments where they can apply their knowledge effectively. The program attracts motivated individuals who aspire to make a significant impact in the business world.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College's Management master's program caters to entrepreneurial-minded students eager to drive innovation and create value in organizations. The focus here is on developing practical skills and fostering a mindset that embraces change, making it a perfect fit for those who aspire to lead in dynamic business environments. Students engage with a community that shares their ambition and drive, allowing for rich discussions and collaborative learning experiences.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

The Management master's program at CUNY Brooklyn College is ideal for students seeking a practical, accessible education in business leadership. With a focus on real-world applications, students work to develop their managerial skills and strategic thinking, preparing for careers in various industries within New York City and beyond.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Fashion Institute of Technology

New York, NY · 7,637 students · Public

At the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Management master's program is built for creative thinkers who want to blend business acumen with a flair for fashion and design. This program suits those seeking to understand the unique dynamics of the fashion industry, preparing students for careers that demand both management skills and an appreciation for aesthetics. Here, the focus is not just on theory, but also on practical experience and collaboration in a vibrant city known for its fashion scene.

60% accepted 82% graduate $62,696 earnings

Fashion's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

The Management master's program at Cornell University is ideal for aspiring leaders eager to tackle complex business challenges. Students in this program engage deeply with practical case studies and collaborative projects, honing their skills in decision-making and strategic thinking. This immersive approach prepares them to drive innovation and influence organizations in a variety of sectors.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

If you’re looking to blend analytical rigor with a focus on ethical leadership, the Management master's program at Emory University could be the right fit. This program attracts students who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in business settings, equipping them with essential skills to navigate and shape corporate landscapes. The collaborative environment encourages networking and learning from diverse perspectives, essential for future leaders.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

The Management master's program at the University of Georgia caters to individuals eager to enhance their leadership capabilities within a dynamic business environment. This program is perfect for those who want to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, as students work on real-world challenges and case studies. The collaborative culture at Georgia fosters a strong network among peers, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The Management master's program at the University of Notre Dame is tailored for individuals who seek to excel in leadership roles across various industries. Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and ethical management practices, preparing them to navigate complex business challenges. This environment fosters a strong sense of community among peers, encouraging collaboration and networking that can last a lifetime.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University's Management master's program is tailored for aspiring leaders who want to make an impact in today's dynamic business environment. Students here will engage deeply with practical management strategies while honing their analytical skills, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in various sectors.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#11

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

The Management master's program at the University of Richmond is tailored for those eager to develop their leadership capabilities and strategic thinking. Students delve into a curriculum that encourages critical analysis and ethical decision-making, preparing them to drive change in diverse organizations. The program’s strong emphasis on experiential learning allows students to apply their knowledge directly to real-world challenges, fostering a practical understanding of management principles.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#12

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

The Management master's program at San Jose State University is an excellent fit for students looking to advance their careers in the heart of Silicon Valley. This program emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, making it ideal for those eager to enter dynamic industries where innovation is key. Students work closely with local businesses, gaining insights that are directly applicable to their future roles in management and leadership.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

At Boston College, the Management master's program attracts ambitious students ready to dive deep into the complexities of business. Participants engage in collaborative learning, honing their leadership abilities and preparing to tackle the challenges of today’s corporate landscape, all while supported by a strong network of alumni and industry connections.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#15

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Southern California, the Management master's program is designed for ambitious individuals looking to make a significant impact in the business world. Students delve into the complexities of management, honing their skills in areas like leadership, innovation, and strategic planning. This program prepares them to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving marketplace while connecting them with a network of professionals in Los Angeles and beyond.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

At Lehigh University, the Management master's program is designed for those who aspire to lead and innovate in business. Students immersing themselves in this curriculum will develop critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills, equipping them to navigate complex organizational landscapes and drive meaningful change.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#17

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity University's Management master's program is perfect for students who are ready to lead and innovate in various business sectors. The curriculum fosters a hands-on approach, allowing students to collaborate on projects that mirror real business challenges, equipping them with the tools needed for effective management and leadership.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#18

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

Ramapo College of New Jersey's Management master's program is tailored for driven individuals looking to advance their managerial expertise in a rapidly changing business landscape. Students engage in intensive coursework that develops critical thinking and strategic management skills, preparing them for leadership roles across various industries. This program is ideal for those who value a collaborative learning atmosphere and are committed to personal and professional growth.

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#19

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

At Santa Clara University, the Management master's program caters to ambitious individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics in a competitive landscape. Students will immerse themselves in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes ethical leadership and strategic decision-making, preparing them to tackle real-world business challenges in various sectors.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Management master's program at the University of Florida is designed for students who want to blend theory with hands-on experience in a vibrant academic environment. Here, students focus on developing essential leadership skills and strategic insights that are crucial for navigating the business world, all backed by a supportive community and a commitment to student success.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University caters to those pursuing a Management master's program with a focus on practical solutions to real-world problems. The program is designed for students who want to thrive in a diverse environment and engage with global business practices. It prepares attendees to become adaptable leaders, ready to navigate the complexities of modern management in various sectors.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#22

Brigham Young University-Idaho

Rexburg, ID · 44,397 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University-Idaho's Management master's program caters to those who seek to develop a strong ethical foundation in business while honing their leadership capabilities. Students here work on practical management skills that are applicable in various professional contexts, ensuring they are well-prepared to address modern challenges. This program attracts individuals who appreciate a values-based education integrated with practical applications.

96% accepted 55% graduate $53,406 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#23

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#24

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

The Management master's program at Florida State University attracts students eager to develop their leadership skills and tackle real-world business challenges. With a focus on practical applications, students engage in collaborative projects that prepare them for roles in management across various industries. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making and strategic thinking, crucial for today's dynamic business environment.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#25

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

The Management master's program at Georgia Tech is tailored for individuals eager to innovate within the business landscape. Students here engage deeply with technology and data analytics, preparing for roles that require both strategic thinking and technical expertise. With its strong emphasis on real-world applications, this program attracts those who want to lead in industries where tech and management intersect.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#26

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

Virginia Tech’s Management master's program is well-suited for ambitious individuals looking to elevate their careers in business. The program fosters a collaborative environment where students can develop critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills essential for effective leadership. Situated in the scenic town of Blacksburg, students benefit from a close-knit community that encourages professional growth and personal connections.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#27

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown's Management master's program is ideal for ambitious leaders looking to make an impact in the business world. With a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and strategic decision-making, students are prepared to tackle complex challenges. The program encourages a collaborative approach, allowing students to learn from each other and from faculty with extensive industry experience, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#28

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University's Management master's program attracts driven individuals eager to engage with real-world business challenges through experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to build a strong skill set that emphasizes innovation and adaptability, which are crucial in today's fast-paced business environment, especially in the heart of Boston.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#29

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Pennsylvania, the Management master's program is tailored for driven individuals aiming to excel in complex business environments. Students are challenged to think critically and innovate, preparing them to address real-world issues with a strong ethical foundation. The program emphasizes collaboration and experiential learning, which are vital for developing effective leaders in today’s competitive marketplace.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#31

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the Management master's program caters to individuals passionate about strategic decision-making and organizational leadership. This program invites students to engage with contemporary business issues and equips them with the analytical tools necessary to excel in various management roles. The collaborative atmosphere fosters meaningful connections, preparing students for real-world challenges in a supportive environment.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

Wake Forest University's Management master's program engages students who aspire to be transformative leaders in their fields. This program emphasizes ethical decision-making and innovative problem-solving, ideal for those looking to advance in corporate settings or launch their own ventures. The intimate class sizes encourage collaboration and networking, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and support throughout their journey.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

At San Diego State University, the Management master's program is designed for driven individuals eager to make their mark in the business world. Students can expect to delve into various management theories and practices, developing the skills necessary to lead effectively in diverse environments, from startups to large corporations.

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis offers a Management master's program that attracts driven students wanting to excel in leadership roles. The curriculum is tailored to challenge students to think critically about business strategies and organizational behavior, preparing them for high-stakes decision-making in diverse environments. The school's supportive community fosters collaboration, encouraging students to learn from each other as they pursue their professional goals.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#36

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX · 11,026 students · Private nonprofit

44% accepted 86% graduate $68,424 earnings

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University's Management master's program is tailored for those who aspire to lead in diverse business environments. This program attracts students eager to develop their managerial skills and apply them in practical settings, fostering an understanding of the complexities of modern organizations and cultivating a strong professional network.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#38

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#39

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 61% graduate $57,815 earnings

Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville, TN · 1,737 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 54% graduate $49,378 earnings

Trevecca's full profile

#41

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University's Management master's program attracts ambitious individuals eager to master the intricacies of business management in a rigorous academic environment. With a strong emphasis on collaborative learning and real-world applicability, students will gain insights that prepare them for leadership roles across various industries.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

The Management master's program at Carnegie Mellon is tailored for ambitious individuals aiming to make an impact in the business world. Students here work on developing critical skills in decision-making, leadership, and strategy, preparing them for complex challenges in various industries. The program's emphasis on data-driven insights aligns well with the university's tech-forward environment, helping students become effective leaders in an increasingly digital landscape.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#43

University of Denver

Denver, CO · 6,025 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 77% graduate $71,155 earnings

University's full profile

#44

North Park University

Chicago, IL · 1,818 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 57% graduate $59,572 earnings

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#46

Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,816 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 82% graduate $68,964 earnings

Wofford's full profile

#47

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#49

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

When analyzing our top schools, it's clear that Babson College stands out for its high earning potential but comes with a hefty price tag. In contrast, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College offers a much lower net price with solid earnings, showing that affordability can exist alongside good career outcomes. This highlights a key tradeoff students must consider: whether to invest more upfront for potentially higher returns or to opt for a more budget-friendly path.

As you sift through the 50 schools listed, think about your personal priorities. Are you willing to take on more debt for a higher salary? Or is a lower net price more appealing, even if it means potentially lower earnings? Consider factors like location and program fit, as they can heavily influence your experience and opportunities post-graduation. Matching your values with the data can lead to better decision-making.

This data underscores an important journey: the transition from education to stable employment. For one family, choosing a school like the University of Notre Dame with its high graduation rate may lead to more secure job prospects. For another, Baruch's affordability might mean less debt and financial flexibility after graduation. Each decision shapes not just careers, but lives.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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