Best Business Colleges According to Forbes?

Forbes has some rankings for business colleges, and I'm wondering how their list compares to others like U.S. News. Should I prioritize the colleges on their list when considering where to apply?

Forbes indeed has its own ranking system for Business schools, and it does differ from other publications like U.S. News & World Report, even though both aim to identify and rank the best universities. The difference largely comes from the criteria each uses.

Forbes, for example, values return on investment heavily. They primarily look at five-year MBA gain, alumni salary, and alumni satisfaction, amongst other factors. On the other hand, U.S. News & World Report focuses on factors such as peer assessment, recruiter assessment, placement success, and student selectivity.

Neither list is inherently superior, but you might find one more appealing based on what you're valuing in a business program. For instance, if you're looking for higher post-graduation salaries and satisfied alumni, you might lean more heavily into Forbes' rankings. Alternatively, if you value academic reputation and placement success, you might consider the U.S News & World Report’s rankings.

So, should you prioritize colleges on the Forbes list when applying? The answer depends on what you're looking for in a business school. Each ranking provides valuable information, but remember that they're not the only measures of a school's value. It's a good idea to consult multiple sources, including talking with current students or alumni, to get a holistic view of the institution. Assessing elements like program curriculum, faculty, resources, opportunities for internships or co-ops, and campus culture is equally important. Try to find a program that aligns with your individual needs and career goals.