Top 10 MBA Schools

The Financial Times (FT) Global MBA Ranking of 2009 provides a snapshot of the world's top business schools, highlighting institutions that have earned global recognition for their academic rigor, innovative teaching methods, and robust post-graduation outcomes. The top ten schools on this prestigious list represent a mix of long-established institutions in the United States and Europe, alongside emerging schools in Asia. Not only does the FT ranking offer a measure of these schools' overall quality, but it also reflects their ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of global business education. The 2009 ranking, which places the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the London Business School (LBS) at the top, underscores a continued dominance of elite institutions, while also highlighting some exciting developments in international business education.

Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the London Business School, both tied for the first position in the 2009 FT Global MBA Ranking, have long been leaders in business education. The Wharton School, founded in 1881, has built a reputation as a trailblazer in business education, offering a comprehensive range of MBA programs that combine academic rigor with practical application. With a global network of alumni and strong connections to industries ranging from finance and consulting to technology and healthcare, Wharton provides students with opportunities that are unmatched in terms of resources and networking potential. Its faculty is consistently ranked among the best in the world, and its research centers, such as the Wharton Behavioral Lab, push the envelope on topics like leadership, entrepreneurship, and social impact.

In addition to its academic credentials, Wharton’s global reach and brand prestige are significant factors contributing to its top ranking. The school’s alumni network includes some of the most influential business leaders globally, creating opportunities for graduates that are both diverse and impactful. Furthermore, Wharton’s consistent focus on innovation in business education—such as its dual-degree programs, entrepreneurial resources, and commitment to fostering global leaders—makes it a powerhouse in the global MBA landscape.

Similarly, the London Business School (LBS) stands at the forefront of European business education. Founded in 1964, LBS has evolved into one of the most respected business schools in the world. Its location in London, a global financial hub, provides students with unmatched access to the city’s thriving business ecosystem, especially in areas like finance, consulting, and technology. LBS's MBA program is renowned for its international diversity, with a significant portion of students coming from outside the UK. This global perspective, combined with a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their studies to their career ambitions, helps position LBS as a key player in shaping the future of business education.

Another key element in LBS’s success is its strong faculty, which includes leading academics in various business disciplines. The school’s faculty is highly active in both research and practice, ensuring that students benefit from the latest developments in business theory while also having access to real-world insights. LBS’s alumni network is another asset, with graduates excelling in global leadership roles across industries. This global network, combined with LBS’s commitment to producing innovative and socially responsible leaders, further solidifies its place at the top of the FT MBA rankings.

Harvard Business School (HBS), which is ranked third in the 2009 FT Global MBA ranking, is perhaps the most iconic business school in the world. Established in 1908, HBS has long been recognized as a leader in producing influential business leaders and entrepreneurs. Its rigorous MBA program is centered around the case method, a teaching approach that immerses students in real-world business challenges and decisions. This method, which places students in the role of decision-makers, encourages critical thinking and deepens students’ understanding of complex business problems.

HBS's global reputation is also supported by its extensive resources, including one of the largest alumni networks in the world. The school's graduates hold leadership positions in almost every major corporation, non-profit organization, and government entity, making HBS an unrivaled source of influence in the business world. HBS’s faculty is composed of world-class scholars, and the institution’s research centers, such as the Institute for Strategy and Competitiveness and the Social Enterprise Initiative, explore cutting-edge topics in business and societal impact.

Columbia Business School, ranked fourth in 2009, is another heavyweight in the world of MBA education. Located in New York City, Columbia benefits from its proximity to one of the world’s largest and most diverse business hubs. The school is especially known for its strength in finance and consulting, offering a curriculum that combines academic rigor with access to industry leaders in fields like investment banking, private equity, and management consulting. Columbia’s MBA program is designed to give students practical knowledge through case studies, group projects, and internships, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the business world.

Columbia Business School’s reputation also stems from its strong faculty and its ability to leverage New York City’s dynamic business environment. The school has produced many influential leaders, particularly in the finance and media industries, and its alumni network provides students with valuable connections and career opportunities. Columbia is also noted for its global outlook, offering opportunities for students to gain international experience through exchange programs and global immersion projects.

INSEAD, ranked fifth, is one of the most prestigious business schools in Europe and is often referred to as "the Business School for the World" due to its truly international student body and faculty. With campuses in France, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi, INSEAD has established itself as a leader in global business education. The school is renowned for its one-year MBA program, which is intensive and fast-paced, designed for professionals who want to return to the workforce quickly. INSEAD’s emphasis on diversity is reflected in its multinational student body, which includes participants from across the globe, contributing to a rich learning environment.

The INSEAD MBA program is highly respected for its international focus, preparing graduates to thrive in a globalized economy. The school’s alumni network spans across continents and industries, further enhancing its reputation as a global leader in business education. INSEAD’s faculty is equally diverse, with professors hailing from various academic and professional backgrounds. The school’s emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation makes it a top choice for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the business world.

Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), tied for sixth with IE Business School, is widely regarded as one of the best MBA programs in the world, especially for those seeking careers in entrepreneurship and technology. Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford GSB benefits from its proximity to one of the most innovative regions in the world, offering students unmatched access to tech companies, startups, and venture capital firms. The school is known for its emphasis on leadership development, with a curriculum that encourages self-reflection, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making.

Stanford’s MBA program is highly selective, admitting students who are not only academically talented but also demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. The school’s alumni network is one of the most influential in the world, particularly in the tech industry, where many graduates have gone on to found or lead successful companies. Stanford’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in its research centers, such as the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, which supports the development of new ventures and entrepreneurial initiatives.

IE Business School, also tied for sixth, is based in Madrid, Spain, and has grown rapidly in stature over the past few decades. IE’s MBA program is known for its global orientation, combining a rigorous curriculum with international exposure through exchange programs, global internships, and business projects. The school’s diverse student body and its innovative approach to teaching make it a popular choice for individuals seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking business education. IE is especially recognized for its focus on entrepreneurship and digital innovation, positioning itself as a leader in preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly changing global economy.

The China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), ranked eighth in the 2009 FT Global MBA Ranking, is the leading business school in China and has earned a reputation for excellence in both China and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Established as a joint venture between the Chinese government and the European Union, CEIBS offers an MBA program that combines Western business practices with an understanding of the Chinese market and economy. CEIBS is particularly attractive for students seeking to work in China or the broader Asian market, providing access to a robust network of alumni and business leaders in the region.

MIT Sloan School of Management, ranked ninth, is another top-tier institution known for its focus on technology, innovation, and quantitative analysis. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Sloan is highly regarded for its leadership in areas like entrepreneurship, operations management, and supply chain management. The school’s MBA program emphasizes a hands-on, experiential approach to learning, with students engaging in projects, labs, and internships that bring theory to practice. MIT Sloan’s strong ties to the technology sector and its focus on innovation make it a top choice for students aiming to make a significant impact in the tech industry.

The Stern School of Business at New York University (NYU), ranked tenth, is located in the heart of New York City, one of the world’s financial capitals. Stern’s MBA program is known for its strengths in finance, marketing, and management, and its proximity to Wall Street provides students with unparalleled access to top-tier financial firms. The school’s flexible curriculum allows students to tailor their education to their specific career goals, whether in finance, consulting, entrepreneurship, or technology. Stern’s global network and strong industry connections make it a top choice for students seeking to build careers in diverse sectors.

The FT Global MBA Ranking of 2009 reflects the continued dominance of top business schools, especially those in the United States and Europe, while also recognizing the increasing importance of institutions in Asia. Each of the top ten schools offers a unique combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and global perspectives, positioning their graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected world. As the global business environment continues to evolve, these institutions remain at the forefront of shaping the next generation of business leaders.

Below is the list of Top 10 MBA schools and programs in the world as ranked by the major international league tables:

FT Global Ranking of Top 10 MBA schools:
1 Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
1 London Business School (LBS)
3 Harvard Business School (HBS)
4 Columbia Business School
5 INSEAD - European Institute of Business Administration
6 Stanford Graduate School of Business
6 IE Business School
8 China Europe International Business School (CEIBS)
9 MIT Sloan School of Management
10 Stern School of Business, New York University

Source: Financial Times 2009

EIU Global Ranking of Top MBA programs:
1 IMD - International Institute for Management Development Switzerland
2 IESE Business School—University of Navarra Spain
3 Uni of Chicago—Graduate School of Business US
4 Stanford Graduate School of Business US
5 Dartmouth College—Tuck School of Business US
6 Univ of California at Berkeley—Haas School of Business US
7 Univ of Cambridge—Judge Business School UK
8 New York Univ—Leonard N Stern School of Business US
9 London Business School UK
10 IE Business School Spain

Source: Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Which MBA? 2008

World's Top 10 Executive MBA (EMBA) Ranking:
1 Northwestern University (Kellogg) USA
2 University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) USA
3 Thunderbird School of Global Management USA
4 U of Southern California (Marshall) USA
5 U of North Carolina (Kenan-Flagler) USA
6 U of Michigan (Ross) USA
7 Cornell Uni (Johnson) USA
8 Columbia Uni (NY Program) USA
9 U of Chicago USA
10 Duke Univ (Fuqua) USA

Source: Wall Street Journal