Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Business

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

Schools Analyzed

$82,191

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

82%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,619

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a college degree in business or marketing, the return on investment (ROI) can be a key factor in your decision. With average earnings of $83,616 for graduates from the top schools on this list, it's clear that some institutions provide significant financial benefits post-graduation.

The schools featured here stand out due to their impressive earnings, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels. Graduating from a school with a high ROI means not only securing a job but also doing so without being burdened by overwhelming debt. This list below highlights schools that excel in these areas, making it easier for students and families to make informed choices.

Take, for example, Cornell University and CUNY Bernard M Baruch College. While Cornell graduates earn an average of $104,043, Baruch graduates earn $75,971. However, Baruch's net price is significantly lower at just $3,033, compared to Cornell's $28,690. This contrast exemplifies the trade-offs families might consider as they weigh financial factors against potential earnings.

Key Findings

Cornell University graduates earn an average of $104,043, the highest on this list.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a remarkably low net price of $3,033.

Graduation rates for the top schools average 85%, with University of Pennsylvania at 97%.

Debt levels vary significantly, with Rice University graduates averaging $11,000.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $82,191

Avg. graduation rate 82%

Avg. net price $20,619

Avg. median debt $17,780

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment with 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 →

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY

Graduation95%

Earnings$104,043

Net Price$28,690

View full profile →

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA

Graduation94%

Earnings$94,810

Net Price$23,781

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College, situated in the heart of New York City, is an excellent choice for students looking to combine academic rigor with urban experience. With a graduation rate of 72%, many students find their footing in various fields, particularly business and public affairs, where Baruch has a strong reputation that resonates in the city's job market.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong graduation rate of 95%, Cornell University is a place where students not only enroll but also succeed. Located in the picturesque town of Ithaca, NY, this private university is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, attracting a diverse group of students eager to engage in research, leadership, and community-building activities.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the scenic town of Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University is small in size but mighty in educational impact, with a graduation rate of 94%. The intimate campus fosters close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the learning experience, especially in the liberal arts and pre-professional programs that emphasize critical thinking and effective communication.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia is a premier institution known for its blend of liberal arts and professional education. With a graduation rate of 97%, Penn cultivates an environment where academic excellence meets real-world application, preparing students for successful careers across various fields, especially in finance, law, and healthcare.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $89,718 a decade after graduation, Rice University in Houston is a compelling choice for students aiming for strong academic and career outcomes. The school’s intimate size of 4,776 students fosters a vibrant community, where collaboration and personalized attention are part of the everyday experience.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Tech, located in Atlanta, is a public university that attracts ambitious students with its strong focus on technology and engineering. With a graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $102,772 after ten years, it prepares students for successful careers in high-demand fields.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a large student body of 35,629, the University of Florida in Gainesville provides a vibrant campus life alongside a solid academic reputation. Its graduation rate stands at 91%, and graduates earn a median income of $71,588 after a decade, highlighting the university's ability to prepare students for diverse career paths.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a vibrant public university that combines a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. With a student body of over 20,000, it’s a place where students can engage in diverse academic and extracurricular activities, all while enjoying the charm of Chapel Hill and its surrounding community.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $123,938 at ten years post-graduation, Babson College in Wellesley, MA is an appealing choice for students interested in business and entrepreneurship. The small, focused community of 2,728 students fosters an environment where 93% of graduates successfully complete their degree, equipping them with the skills needed in today’s fast-paced economy.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#10

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

With over 10,500 students thriving in Brooklyn, CUNY Brooklyn College is known for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life. The school has a solid reputation for supporting students from various backgrounds, particularly with its 57% of Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, GA, is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 91%, students often find themselves supported by a network that values academic rigor and social responsibility, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make an impact in their fields.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Notre Dame

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

Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, this private university boasts a 96% graduation rate, suggesting a supportive academic environment. Graduates see median earnings of $99,980 after ten years, showing that the university prepares students well for lucrative careers, particularly in business and the sciences.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Washington University in St Louis

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

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington University in St. Louis has a strong track record of helping students succeed. The campus culture fosters collaboration and innovation, encouraging students to pursue their passions while getting a top-notch education in fields like medicine, business, and engineering.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#14

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh attracts students drawn to its innovative programs in technology and the arts. With a graduation rate of 93%, this institution emphasizes hands-on learning and fosters creativity, preparing students for impactful careers in a variety of industries.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#15

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

The University of Georgia in Athens is a vibrant public university with a strong sense of school spirit and a diverse student body of over 32,000. Graduating 89% of its students, UGA blends academic excellence with a lively campus culture, making it a popular choice for those looking to engage in both their studies and extracurricular activities.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, IL, Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, reflecting the strong support systems in place for its 9,201 students. Known for its rigorous academic programs, Northwestern graduates enjoy a median earning of $89,363 after ten years, highlighting the value of a degree from this prestigious institution.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#17

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Georgetown University in Washington, DC, cultivates a strong sense of community and academic rigor. Students here thrive in an environment steeped in history, surrounded by the nation's political heart, which opens doors for networking and internships that can shape careers in various fields.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#18

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University, located in Provo, Utah, has a large student body of nearly 33,000. With an 82% graduation rate and median earnings of $75,790 a decade after graduation, the university fosters a community where students succeed academically and professionally, often rooted in strong values and a supportive network.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#19

Boston College

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

Nestled in Chestnut Hill, Boston College combines rigorous academics with a strong sense of community and tradition. Its impressive graduation rate of 91% reflects the commitment of both faculty and students to academic success, creating an environment where learners thrive and engage deeply with their studies and peers.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#20

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Queens College serves a diverse student body of over 12,000. With a graduation rate of 56%, students have access to a vibrant campus life and a range of academic programs that cater to various interests and career paths.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University has a strong reputation for business education, backed by impressive graduate earnings. With median earnings of $120,959 just ten years after graduation, students often find themselves well-prepared for lucrative careers in finance, marketing, and technology.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#23

University of Southern California

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

With a 92% graduation rate and a median earnings of $92,498 at ten years out, the University of Southern California can be an attractive option for students seeking strong career prospects. The vibrant campus in Los Angeles offers a blend of academic rigor and cultural richness, appealing to those looking to thrive in diverse environments.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College is a small private institution with a graduation rate of 93%, making it an attractive option for students seeking personal attention and academic rigor. Nestled in Southern California, it fosters a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with their studies and each other, often leading to lifelong friendships.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#25

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 90%, William & Mary has a strong track record of helping students complete their degrees successfully. Located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, this public university combines a rich educational environment with a commitment to undergraduate teaching that many find appealing.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#26

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

As one of the largest universities in the country, the University of Central Florida in Orlando boasts an energetic campus life and diverse student population. With a graduation rate of 77%, UCF provides ample opportunities for students to connect, engage, and succeed in their academic journeys.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University stands out with its diverse student body and commitment to access, as evidenced by a 55% acceptance rate. Despite a lower graduation rate of 74%, the university still provides valuable opportunities for students, particularly in fields like business and hospitality. Graduates earn a median of $60,249 after ten years, which reflects the potential for growth in various career paths.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#28

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 84%, Florida State University in Tallahassee demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The university's vibrant campus life and academic programs attract a diverse student body, making it a great place to build connections and friendships that last well beyond college.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#29

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

Located in the Bronx, CUNY Lehman College serves just under 11,000 students in a diverse and inclusive environment. The school’s graduation rate is 50%, indicating that while many students find their path to success, there’s room for improvement in supporting students through to graduation.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern University is known for its distinctive co-op program that integrates real-world work experience into academic study. With a graduation rate of 90%, students benefit from a curriculum designed to prepare them for today's job market, fostering networking opportunities and practical skills that employers value highly.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#32

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University stands out in the vibrant city of Boston, attracting students eager for a rich educational experience. With a graduation rate of 89% and strong connections to industries like media, healthcare, and business, BU cultivates a reputation for producing well-rounded graduates who excel in their fields.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#33

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Wake Forest University

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

Wake Forest University, nestled in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a vibrant community of just under 5,500 students. With a remarkable graduation rate of 90%, the school fosters a strong sense of belonging and academic excellence, making it a great option for those seeking a close-knit college experience with plenty of support.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

Virginia Tech, located in the scenic town of Blacksburg, is home to nearly 31,000 students who enjoy a blend of rigorous academics and a vibrant campus culture. With an impressive graduation rate of 86%, it’s clear that students here are well-supported and engaged, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a strong academic community.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#36

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#37

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With over 23,000 students, Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton provides a vibrant campus life in a sunny, coastal setting. The school’s graduation rate sits at 63%, suggesting that many students successfully navigate their college journey and earn their degrees, which can be crucial for future employment opportunities.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#38

University of Richmond

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

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#39

Trinity University

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

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#40

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University provides a personalized education experience with a student body of around 5,900. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh is known for its strong engineering and business programs, which attract ambitious students looking to make their mark in competitive fields.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#41

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#42

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

For those looking for flexibility, the University of Florida-Online is an excellent choice with a graduation rate of 81%. Serving 4,627 students, this public university combines the rigor of a traditional degree with the convenience of online learning, leading to median earnings of $71,588 at ten years post-graduation.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#44

Santa Clara University

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

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#50

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT · 27,264 students · Public

86% accepted 64% graduate $67,170 earnings

University's full profile

The data reveals a compelling pattern: Cornell University outperforms CUNY Bernard M Baruch College in earnings, but the financial commitment is much higher at Cornell. Graduates from Cornell earn $104,043, while Baruch graduates earn $75,971. Yet, Baruch's lower net price of $3,033 compared to Cornell's $28,690 makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious students.

As you sift through the 50 colleges listed, think about your own priorities. Are you willing to invest more in tuition for potentially higher earnings, or do you prefer a more affordable option? Consider factors like location, campus culture, and program focus. Balancing these elements with the financial data can help you find the best fit.

At the end of the day, choosing the right college is about setting the stage for a stable future. A family's decision to invest in education can shape career paths and financial stability for years to come. By understanding the data, families can make choices that align with their financial goals and aspirations.

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]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

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

[3]

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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