Best MBA Programs in Indiana

Indiana University – Kelley School of Business

Overview

The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University Bloomington is one of the most prestigious MBA programs in the U.S. Known for its strength in consulting, marketing, and finance, Kelley has a comprehensive full-time MBA program that emphasizes leadership development, experiential learning, and global business perspectives. Students benefit from Kelley’s strong corporate connections, with opportunities to intern or work for top companies globally. Kelley’s Career Services Office is highly rated, helping students land competitive jobs.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: #26 nationally
  • Number of Students: 3145 MBA students (full-time and online combined)
  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 40%
  • Average GMAT Score: 685
  • Top Hiring Companies:
    • Deloitte
    • Amazon
    • PwC
    • Eli Lilly
  • Average Starting Salary: $140,486 (with an additional $37,646 average signing bonus)

Notable Alumni

  • Marc Bitzer: CEO of Whirlpool Corporation
  • Timothy Cook: CEO of Apple (received an MBA through the Kelley Direct program)

Purdue University – Krannert School of Management

Overview

Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management offers a strong MBA program with a focus on analytical and STEM-based approaches to business. Purdue is known for producing graduates who excel in industries like manufacturing, engineering, and technology. The MBA program emphasizes experiential learning, innovation, and global exposure through international study programs and internships.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Ranked among top public MBA programs
  • Number of Students: Approximately 300 full-time students
  • Acceptance Rate: 30%
  • Average GMAT Score: 620
  • Top Hiring Companies:
    • General Electric
    • Accenture
    • Intel
    • Procter & Gamble
  • Average Starting Salary: $102,000

Notable Alumni

  • Brian Niccol: CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill
  • Sam Allen: Former CEO of John Deere

Indiana State University – Scott College of Business

Overview

Indiana State University offers an affordable and flexible MBA program designed to cater to working professionals. The Scott College of Business focuses on practical business skills, leadership, and industry readiness, particularly in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and supply chain management. This MBA program provides both on-campus and online learning options, making it highly accessible to students across Indiana and beyond.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Ranked regionally
  • Number of Students: 965
  • Acceptance Rate: Moderate (approximately 60%)
  • Average GMAT Score: 540 (GMAT may be waived for qualified students)
  • Top Hiring Companies:
    • Duke Energy
    • Regions Bank
    • Rolls Royce
  • Average Starting Salary: $69,600

Notable Alumni

  • Larry Bird: Basketball legend and former NBA executive
  • Norman Lefstein: Dean Emeritus of Indiana University’s Robert H. McKinney School of Law

Purdue University Northwest – College of Business

Overview

Purdue University Northwest offers a competitive MBA program with a focus on applied learning and strong connections to local industries in Indiana and the broader Midwest. The program is known for being highly affordable, while still providing quality business education accredited by AACSB. The program offers part-time and online options, making it ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers while continuing to work.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Top regional programs
  • Number of Students: 955
  • Acceptance Rate: Higher (around 70%)
  • Average GMAT Score: 610
  • Top Hiring Companies:
    • ArcelorMittal
    • Blue Cross Blue Shield
    • Northern Trust
  • Average Starting Salary: $87,100

Notable Alumni

  • Sylvia Waddell: Executive Director, Economic Development at City of Hammond
  • Brian Martin: CFO at First Midwest Bank

Ball State University – Miller College of Business

Overview

Ball State University’s Miller College of Business provides a flexible, accessible MBA program with a variety of concentrations including entrepreneurship, finance, and healthcare administration. The program is available both online and in person, making it a popular choice for working professionals. Ball State’s MBA program emphasizes a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical business skills, preparing graduates to excel in management roles.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Ranked regionally
  • Number of Students: 700 (full-time and part-time)
  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 60%
  • Average GMAT Score: 590
  • Top Hiring Companies:
    • Cummins
    • Ball Corporation
    • Salesforce
  • Average Starting Salary: $65,000

Notable Alumni

  • David Letterman: Legendary television host and comedian
  • John Schnatter: Founder of Papa John’s Pizza