Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Management

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

Schools Analyzed

$97,518

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$31,506

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college can be overwhelming, especially when weighing potential earnings after graduation. For students interested in management, the schools on this list are noteworthy for their strong outcomes in terms of graduate earnings. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these top institutions is $99,949, highlighting the potential financial benefits of a degree in this field.

The key metrics that set these schools apart include graduate earnings, completion rates, debt levels, and mobility. These factors provide a clearer picture of what students can expect after graduation. For example, the graduation rates across these top schools average 86%, reflecting strong support systems that help students finish their degrees. The differences in debt and net price also reveal important trade-offs for prospective students.

Take Babson College and Santa Clara University as examples. Babson graduates earn an impressive $123,938 on average, with a graduation rate of 93%. In contrast, Santa Clara graduates earn $109,183, with an 88% graduation rate. The trade-off lies in the net price: Babson's net price is $40,514, while Santa Clara's is significantly higher at $50,062. This comparison underscores the importance of balancing potential earnings with financial considerations when making a decision about where to study management.

Key Findings

Babson College graduates earn an average of $123,938, the highest among these schools.

The average graduation rate for the institutions listed is 86%, indicating solid student support.

Bentley University has a net price of $37,930, making it more affordable than many competitors.

Carnegie Mellon graduates face an average debt of $21,750, which is manageable compared to their high earnings.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $97,518

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $31,506

Avg. median debt $21,371

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation93%

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Bentley University

Waltham, MA

Graduation88%

Earnings$120,959

Net Price$37,930

View full profile →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation93%

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Babson College in Wellesley, MA, is known for its focus on entrepreneurship and business education. The school cultivates a close-knit community of just over 2,700 students, where hands-on learning and collaboration drive success. The strong emphasis on practical experience equips graduates with skills that are highly valued in the job market.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University in Waltham, MA, attracts students who are serious about carving out a career in business and technology. With an 88% graduation rate and a diverse student body of nearly 4,500, Bentley emphasizes the integration of business education and analytics, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving job market.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, is not just about academics; it fosters a culture of innovation and creativity among its 7,300 students. With a 93% graduation rate, the university is well-regarded for its programs in technology and the arts, making it an ideal fit for students who want to think outside the box and make a meaningful impact in their fields.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic programs and strong focus on research. With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, Penn cultivates a diverse community of 10,650 students who thrive on collaboration and innovation across disciplines, from business to the humanities.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Santa Clara University

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

With a graduation rate of 88%, Santa Clara University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of $109,183 a decade after graduation highlight the value of a degree from this private nonprofit institution in Silicon Valley, where connections to the tech industry can lead to promising career opportunities.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, draws students with its strong academic programs and an impressive 89% graduation rate. The median earnings of $105,584 after ten years indicate that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, thanks in part to the university's focus on experiential learning and collaboration with industry leaders.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University is known for its rigorous academics and a graduation rate of 95%, making it a top choice for driven students. The diverse range of programs and resources available allows students to explore their interests deeply while preparing for successful careers, as reflected in the median earnings of $104,043 ten years post-graduation.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

Stevens Institute of Technology is located in Hoboken, NJ, where students benefit from a vibrant urban environment with easy access to New York City. With an impressive 88% graduation rate, the school emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world experience, particularly in engineering and technology fields. Graduates see median earnings of $108,772 a decade after finishing their degrees, demonstrating the value of a Stevens education in the workforce.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

Boston College

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

Located in Chestnut Hill, MA, Boston College attracts students with its commitment to a holistic education and a graduation rate of 91%. The median earnings of $103,937 a decade after graduation reflect the quality of education and the alumni network that supports career advancement in various fields.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#10

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

In the heart of Atlanta, Georgia Institute of Technology is a hub for innovation and research, attracting students interested in engineering, technology, and computing. With a 93% graduation rate, students enjoy a collaborative culture that fosters creativity and problem-solving. Graduates earn a median income of $102,772 within ten years, indicating strong career prospects for individuals with a Georgia Tech degree.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#11

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, nestled in Washington, DC, is renowned for its strong academic tradition and commitment to social justice. The school boasts a 95% graduation rate, which speaks to its supportive environment and engaged faculty. Alumni earn a median of $103,494 within a decade of graduation, reflecting the high demand for graduates from this prestigious institution in various fields, particularly government and international relations.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#12

University of Notre Dame

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

The University of Notre Dame in Indiana is steeped in tradition and values, creating a unique community for students. With a remarkable 96% graduation rate, students here benefit from a strong support system and a focus on holistic education. Graduates see median earnings of $99,980 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the school's commitment to developing leaders with integrity and purpose in various fields.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Claremont McKenna College is known for its strong commitment to student success. The intimate setting, with just 1,388 students, fosters a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with faculty and peers, enhancing their academic experience and personal growth.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#14

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

Villanova University, located in Pennsylvania, has a vibrant community of nearly 7,000 students. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here benefit from a supportive atmosphere that encourages both academic and personal development, helping them build lasting connections and networks.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#15

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, located in Troy, New York, has a diverse student body of 5,714 and a graduation rate of 83%. This institution is particularly attractive to students passionate about science and engineering, offering a curriculum that challenges and prepares them for high-demand careers in technology and innovation.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#16

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

In the scenic town of Lexington, Washington and Lee University boasts a striking 94% graduation rate. With a student body of 1,881, the university emphasizes a personalized education, allowing students to explore their interests while developing critical thinking and leadership skills in a supportive environment.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

With a unique focus on maritime studies, SUNY Maritime College prepares students for a variety of careers in the maritime industry. The school’s location in Throggs Neck, New York, provides access to the bustling New York Harbor, enhancing hands-on training opportunities for students.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

University of Southern California

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

The University of Southern California offers a vibrant cultural experience in Los Angeles, blending rigorous academics with a plethora of extracurricular activities. With a 92% graduation rate, USC attracts driven students who are looking to make a mark in their fields, whether in business, arts, or sciences.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston brings a strong emphasis on experiential learning, integrating co-op programs into its curriculum that help students gain real-world experience. This approach has resulted in impressive outcomes, with a 90% graduation rate and a vibrant campus life that truly embraces diversity and innovation.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#20

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Bucknell University is home to nearly 4,000 students who enjoy a vibrant liberal arts education. With an impressive 86% graduation rate, students here are not just completing their degrees; they are graduating into successful careers, earning a median of $93,807 ten years after enrollment.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#21

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston is known for its close-knit community and commitment to undergraduate education. With a small student body of just under 5,000, it fosters a personalized learning environment, which is reflected in its impressive 95% graduation rate that speaks to the support students receive.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy, located in Vallejo, California, offers a unique educational experience for those interested in maritime studies and engineering. With a 63% graduation rate, it provides specialized training in a field that leads to median earnings of $94,784 ten years post-graduation, making it an appealing option for career-focused students.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#23

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

George Washington University is nestled in the heart of the nation’s capital, offering students unique opportunities for internships and connections in politics, business, and international relations. With an acceptance rate of 47% and an 85% graduation rate, GWU fosters a vibrant community where students can thrive academically and socially.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#24

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

In Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University is known for its strong academic programs and close-knit community, serving over 9,000 students. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, it reflects the university's dedication to student achievement, which translates to median earnings of $89,363 ten years after graduation, illustrating a solid return on investment for its graduates.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#25

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University, with its focus on business and liberal arts, is a place where students can develop essential skills for the modern workforce. The university's graduation rate is at 80%, and the campus culture encourages collaboration and innovation, making it a great fit for students who thrive in a dynamic environment.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

#26

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University in Connecticut has a vibrant campus with a strong sense of community, drawing in students who thrive in a tight-knit environment. With median earnings of $88,794 ten years after graduation, students can look forward to a rewarding career after completing their studies here.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

#27

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

The University of San Francisco, located in the heart of a vibrant city, attracts students eager to engage with diverse cultures and innovative ideas. With a graduation rate of 71% and median earnings of $89,812 after ten years, it offers a pathway to strong career prospects in various fields.

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

#28

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence. Known for its rigorous academics and supportive environment, WashU prepares students well for their future careers, cultivating a strong sense of community among its students and faculty.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#29

Providence College

Providence, RI · 4,229 students · Private nonprofit

Providence College offers a close-knit community in Rhode Island, where students can benefit from a liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking and ethical leadership. With an 87% graduation rate and a median salary of $87,054 at ten years post-graduation, the school prepares students for success in both their professional and personal lives.

51% accepted 87% graduate $87,054 earnings

Providence's full profile

#30

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $89,070 at ten years post-graduation, Milwaukee School of Engineering is a strong contender for students interested in career-oriented education. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes practical skills, which is reflected in its robust graduation rate of 69%. The school's focus on engineering and technology prepares graduates for high-demand fields in a city known for its manufacturing and innovation.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#31

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

For students interested in maritime studies or engineering, Maine Maritime Academy offers a focused education with a median earning potential of $89,964 after ten years. With a graduation rate of 60%, this public institution fosters a close-knit community where hands-on training is central to the curriculum. Located in Castine, Maine, the academy provides unique opportunities for those passionate about marine and environmental sciences.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on engineering and business, Clarkson University has a vibrant campus in the heart of Potsdam, NY. The school's commitment to practical learning and research prepares students for real-world challenges, reflected in its solid median earnings of $89,696 at ten years after graduation.

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#33

University of San Diego

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

University of San Diego is a vibrant community that supports a diverse student body, with a graduation rate of 83%. Located in sunny California, it’s an appealing option for those who thrive in a warm climate and a lively urban setting. The university emphasizes a well-rounded education, blending liberal arts with professional preparation, which can be ideal for students looking to explore various career paths.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, has a student population of 6,437 and an impressive graduation rate of 87%. Graduates report median earnings of $87,989 after ten years, reflecting the university's strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in various fields.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley is a dynamic hub of innovation and research, attracting over 33,000 students to its esteemed programs. A 93% graduation rate highlights the commitment to student success, while median earnings of $92,446 a decade after graduation demonstrate the value of a UC Berkeley degree in today’s job market.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

MIT is renowned for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on innovation, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students here are surrounded by like-minded peers, creating an environment that drives them toward high achievement and future success, as shown by median earnings of $143,372 ten years post-graduation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#37

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is an iconic institution that draws students into its extraordinary academic environment in California's Silicon Valley. It consistently nurtures innovation, with graduates earning a remarkable median salary of $124,080 within a decade, which speaks volumes about the professional opportunities available to its students.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#38

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University, situated in the vibrant heart of Boston, MA, has a large community of 18,248 students and a graduation rate of 89%. Graduates see median earnings of $83,238 after ten years, highlighting the university's strong connections to various industries and its ability to prepare students for the workforce effectively.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#39

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 86%, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is a solid choice for students looking to balance academic rigor with hands-on experience. Located in the picturesque town of San Luis Obispo, this public university emphasizes practical learning, particularly in engineering and technology, setting students up for success in their careers.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

#40

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#41

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#42

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University in Atlanta illustrates a strong commitment to student success. The university cultivates a vibrant campus life and is known for its focus on research and community engagement, which complements its rigorous academic programs. Students here often thrive in a collaborative environment that encourages them to explore diverse fields and perspectives.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

#44

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Boston, MCPHS University specializes in health sciences, making it a prime choice for students eager to enter this field. With 85% of students gaining acceptance, it’s accessible while still maintaining a focus on career readiness, as evidenced by a median earnings figure of $125,557 a decade after graduation.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences focuses on providing specialized education in pharmacy and health sciences. With a graduation rate of 68% and an acceptance rate of 53%, it's a solid option for students who are committed to these fields and looking for personalized attention in their studies, ultimately leading to median earnings of $131,426 a decade after graduation.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#47

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong academic programs, attracting students who appreciate a supportive community. The university has a graduation rate of 79% and median earnings of $86,881 after ten years, which speaks to its ability to equip graduates for success in the job market.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

#49

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

Despite the allure of high earnings, there are nuanced differences among these schools. For instance, Babson College not only leads in earnings but also boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. In contrast, Bentley University, while still strong with $120,959 in earnings, has a graduation rate of 88%. This highlights that while high earnings are crucial, completion rates can significantly impact overall value.

As you sift through these 50 institutions, consider your own priorities. Are you looking for a lower net price? Bentley's $37,930 might appeal to you more than Santa Clara's $50,062. Think about location and campus culture as well; these factors can be just as important as financial metrics. Weighing these elements against the data can help you make a more informed decision.

The journey from college to a stable life often hinges on the choices we make today. One family might prioritize a high-earning school like Babson but face a higher price tag. Another may opt for a more affordable Bentley, knowing they’ll incur more debt but have a solid support system. These choices shape not just academic paths, but also futures.

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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