University of Iowa – Tippie College of Business
Overview
The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa is one of the state’s most prestigious MBA programs. Consistently ranked among the top part-time and full-time MBA programs in the nation, Tippie offers an education grounded in leadership, innovation, and global business perspectives. The program is designed to meet the needs of both full-time students and working professionals, with multiple formats such as full-time, part-time, and online MBA options.
The Tippie MBA curriculum is known for its flexibility and focus on experiential learning. Students can customize their education by choosing from several concentrations, including finance, business analytics, and marketing. One of the key features of Tippie’s program is its emphasis on hands-on learning through internships, consulting projects, and partnerships with corporations. Students work closely with companies on real-world business challenges, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse industries.
The program also boasts a robust alumni network and strong corporate partnerships, providing students with exceptional networking opportunities. The Tippie Career Services Office offers personalized career coaching and resources, ensuring that graduates are well-positioned to secure high-paying roles upon graduation.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: #36 for part-time MBA programs nationally
- Number of Students: Approximately 218 full-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Average GMAT Score: 650 (though GMAT is optional for some applicants)
- Top Hiring Companies:
- John Deere
- Principal Financial Group
- Procter & Gamble
- Deloitte
- Transamerica
- Average Starting Salary: $112,820
- Return on Investment (ROI): 241%
Notable Alumni
- John Pappajohn: Entrepreneur and philanthropist, founder of Pappajohn Capital Resources
- David Wilson: CEO of Wilson Sporting Goods
- Brian W. Gabel: CFO of Principal Financial Group
Key Features
- Global Business Focus: Tippie offers numerous global study opportunities, including international consulting projects and partnerships with global companies.
- Customization: Students can personalize their MBA experience by selecting various concentrations and electives that align with their career goals.
- Experiential Learning: Tippie is known for its emphasis on practical business experience. Students participate in internships, case studies, and consulting projects, which give them a competitive advantage in the job market.
Iowa State University – Ivy College of Business
Overview
Iowa State University’s Ivy College of Business offers a well-regarded MBA program that is known for its strong focus on leadership, analytics, and entrepreneurship. The program provides a flexible structure, with both full-time and part-time options available. Ivy’s curriculum is particularly appealing to students interested in agribusiness, data analytics, and supply chain management, reflecting the state’s economic strengths.
The MBA program at Ivy College emphasizes practical learning and leadership development. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, co-op programs, and consulting projects to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world business problems. Ivy has strong connections with Iowa’s agricultural and tech industries, offering students excellent career opportunities. The college also has a well-established alumni network, providing students with access to mentors and industry leaders.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top MBA programs in the Midwest
- Number of Students: Approximately 200 full-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Average GMAT Score: 610
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Corteva Agriscience
- Nationwide Insurance
- HNI Corporation
- Wells Fargo
- Average Starting Salary: $75,552
- Return on Investment (ROI): 180%
Notable Alumni
- Jim Knuth: Senior Vice President at Farm Credit Services of America
- Nancy Friedrich: VP at Conagra Brands
Key Features
- Industry Partnerships: Ivy’s close ties to leading Iowa-based companies ensure students have access to internships and employment opportunities in fields such as agribusiness, finance, and supply chain management.
- Flexible Formats: Students can pursue their MBA full-time, part-time, or online, making it easier for working professionals to balance education with their careers.
- Specialized Tracks: Ivy offers a range of concentrations, including business analytics, marketing, and supply chain management, allowing students to tailor their education to their professional goals.
Drake University – College of Business and Public Administration
Overview
Drake University’s MBA program, offered through the College of Business and Public Administration, is well-suited for working professionals seeking a flexible and customizable education. Located in Des Moines, the heart of Iowa’s financial and insurance industries, Drake’s MBA program leverages its proximity to major employers such as Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo. This provides students with ample opportunities to network and secure internships in finance, insurance, and public administration.
The Drake MBA is known for its small class sizes, which provide students with personalized attention from faculty. The program focuses on leadership, ethics, and public service, making it an excellent choice for professionals looking to advance into managerial or executive roles. Drake offers both in-person and online formats, allowing students to choose the learning method that best suits their schedules.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Regionally ranked for leadership in business education
- Number of Students: Approximately 150 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Average GMAT Score: 600
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Principal Financial Group
- Wells Fargo
- EMC Insurance
- Nationwide Insurance
- Average Starting Salary: $79,500
- Return on Investment (ROI): 190%
Notable Alumni
- Terry Branstad: Former U.S. Ambassador to China and longest-serving Governor of Iowa
- Kevin Vermeer: President and CEO of UnityPoint Health
Key Features
- Focus on Leadership and Ethics: Drake’s MBA curriculum integrates leadership development with ethical decision-making, preparing students to take on senior management roles in business, government, and non-profit organizations.
- Flexible Learning Options: Drake’s MBA is available in both in-person and online formats, providing flexibility for working professionals who need to balance work, life, and education.
- Strong Alumni Network: Drake’s extensive alumni network in Des Moines and beyond offers students excellent opportunities for mentorship, networking, and career placement.
University of Northern Iowa – College of Business
Overview
The University of Northern Iowa’s MBA program focuses on providing students with practical skills needed for leadership roles in various industries. Located in Cedar Falls, Iowa, UNI’s MBA program is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers without interrupting their professional lives. The program offers both part-time and evening options to accommodate the schedules of working adults.
UNI’s MBA curriculum emphasizes applied learning through case studies, consulting projects, and internships. Students have the opportunity to work with local businesses and non-profit organizations, giving them real-world experience while earning their degrees. UNI’s small class sizes ensure that students receive personalized attention and build close relationships with faculty members.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked regionally for ROI and affordability
- Number of Students: Approximately 120 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 580
- Top Hiring Companies:
- John Deere
- Cargill
- Rockwell Collins
- Average Starting Salary: $66,000
- Return on Investment (ROI): 150%
Notable Alumni
- Daniel Houston: Chairman and CEO of Principal Financial Group
- Brad R. Buck: Director of the Iowa Department of Education
Key Features
- Practical Learning Focus: UNI’s MBA program emphasizes real-world business experience, giving students the skills and confidence they need to take on leadership roles.
- Affordability: UNI’s MBA program is one of the most affordable in the state, offering excellent value for money, particularly for Iowa residents.
- Small Class Sizes: The program’s small class sizes allow for more personalized attention from faculty, ensuring that students get the most out of their MBA experience.