Brown University – IE Brown Executive MBA
Overview
The IE Brown Executive MBA, a collaboration between Brown University and IE Business School, is a prestigious program designed for senior professionals and executives seeking to deepen their leadership skills. This 15-month program combines the academic rigor of Brown’s liberal arts education with IE Business School’s strength in business and management. The program is delivered in a blended format, with both online and in-person components, allowing working professionals to continue their careers while earning an MBA. The IE Brown Executive MBA focuses on interdisciplinary thinking, global leadership, and innovation. Graduates leave the program prepared to tackle complex business challenges with a broad perspective on social, economic, and ethical issues.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: #6 (Executive MBA)
- Number of Students: ~35 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
- Average GMAT Score: 660 (GMAT waivers available based on experience)
- Top Hiring Companies: McKinsey & Co., Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Google, Deloitte
- Average Starting Salary: $180,000
Notable Alumni
- David Cicilline: U.S. Congressman for Rhode Island’s 1st District
- Deborah L. Gist: Former Commissioner of Education for Rhode Island
- Ricardo Hausmann: Director of Harvard’s Center for International Development
- John Maeda: Chief Experience Officer at Publicis Sapient
University of Rhode Island – College of Business
Overview
The University of Rhode Island (URI) offers a well-regarded MBA program through its College of Business, which is the only accredited AACSB business school in the state. Located in Kingston, URI’s MBA program focuses on developing leadership, strategic decision-making, and analytical skills in its students. The program is designed for both full-time students and working professionals, offering flexible formats including full-time, part-time, and online MBA options. URI’s MBA program offers concentrations in areas such as finance, supply chain management, marketing, and healthcare management. The program is particularly strong in regional industries like healthcare and technology, with close ties to Rhode Island’s business community.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~100 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Average GMAT Score: 590 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: CVS Health, Amica, Citizens Bank, FM Global, General Dynamics Electric Boat
- Average Starting Salary: $85,000
Notable Alumni
- Thomas M. Ryan: Former CEO of CVS Health
- Gerald J. Zarella: Former Chairman of Raytheon Corporation
- Paul Choquette Jr.: Executive Vice President of Gilbane Building Company
- Noreen M. Doyle: Former President of HSBC Holdings USA
Providence College – School of Business
Overview
Providence College (PC) offers a highly personalized MBA program through its School of Business. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, PC’s MBA program is known for its emphasis on ethical leadership, collaboration, and critical thinking. The program is designed for working professionals, offering part-time and evening classes that allow students to balance their studies with work. PC’s MBA program provides a strong foundation in business management, with concentrations in finance, marketing, healthcare management, and international business. With small class sizes and a focus on student-faculty interaction, the MBA program at Providence College is ideal for students seeking a personalized learning experience.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~80 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Average GMAT Score: 600 (GMAT waivers available)
- Top Hiring Companies: Fidelity Investments, Citizens Bank, Amica Insurance, Textron, Hasbro
- Average Starting Salary: $82,000
Notable Alumni
- Robert G. Fiondella: Former CEO of Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance
- Brian Moynihan: CEO of Bank of America
- John Killian: Former CFO of Verizon Communications
- Paul J. McMahon: Former EVP of Textron Financial
Bryant University – Graduate School of Business
Overview
Bryant University’s Graduate School of Business, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, offers a competitive MBA program that is designed for both full-time students and working professionals. The program is known for its focus on innovation, global business, and leadership. Bryant’s MBA curriculum emphasizes practical business skills, entrepreneurship, and international business strategies. The program offers both full-time and part-time options, making it flexible for professionals who want to continue working while pursuing their degree. With small class sizes and a collaborative learning environment, Bryant University’s MBA program prepares students for leadership roles in industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~60 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Average GMAT Score: 610 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, Amica Mutual Insurance, Bank of America
- Average Starting Salary: $90,000
Notable Alumni
- Jack Heath: Executive Vice President at Citizens Financial Group
- Robert DiMuccio: CEO of Amica Insurance
- Brendan McCafferty: CEO of Rhode Island Energy
- Paul Imondi: Vice President of Marketing at Bank of America
Johnson & Wales University – College of Business
Overview
Johnson & Wales University (JWU) offers an MBA program through its College of Business in Providence, Rhode Island. JWU’s MBA program is designed to meet the needs of both full-time students and working professionals, with flexible online and on-campus options. The program offers concentrations in areas such as hospitality management, healthcare administration, and operations management. JWU’s strong focus on practical business skills and experiential learning makes it an excellent option for students looking to advance their careers in industries like hospitality, food services, and healthcare. JWU’s MBA program emphasizes leadership development and entrepreneurship, preparing graduates to take on leadership roles in their chosen fields.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~120 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 550 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: Marriott International, Hilton Hotels, Lifespan Health System, Rhode Island Hospital, Amica Insurance
- Average Starting Salary: $75,000
Notable Alumni
- David A. Bronner: CEO of Retirement Systems of Alabama
- Anthony Corvese: Founder of Providence Hospitality Group
- Melissa Walker: Chief Marketing Officer at Hilton Worldwide
- Edward Doyle: President of RealFood Consulting
Roger Williams University – Mario J. Gabelli School of Business
Overview
Roger Williams University (RWU) offers a flexible MBA program through its Mario J. Gabelli School of Business. Located in Bristol, Rhode Island, RWU’s MBA program is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their business acumen and leadership skills. The program offers both full-time and part-time options, allowing students to complete their degree at their own pace. RWU’s MBA program emphasizes strategic thinking, business ethics, and leadership development. The curriculum includes a strong focus on global business practices and experiential learning through internships and consulting projects. RWU’s small class sizes allow for close interaction between students and faculty, creating a personalized learning environment.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~40 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average GMAT Score: 560 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: General Dynamics Electric Boat, CVS Health, Amica Insurance, Lifespan Health System, Bank of America
- Average Starting Salary: $70,000
Notable Alumni
- Gregory Mancini: Executive Director of BuildRI
- Jonathan Savage: Partner at Shechtman Halperin Savage LLP
- David Carlin: Former Rhode Island State Senator
- Patricia Morgan: Former Minority Leader of the Rhode Island House of Representatives
Salve Regina University – School of Business and Professional Studies
Overview
Salve Regina University, located in Newport, Rhode Island, offers an MBA program through its School of Business and Professional Studies. The program is designed for working professionals, with evening and online classes that allow students to balance their education with their careers. Salve Regina’s MBA program emphasizes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and strategic business practices. The curriculum offers specializations in areas such as healthcare administration, nonprofit management, and cybersecurity. Salve Regina’s location in Newport provides students with unique opportunities to engage with regional industries, particularly in healthcare, tourism, and nonprofit management.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~30 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Average GMAT Score: GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals
- Top Hiring Companies: Newport Hospital, Lifespan Health System, CVS Health, BankNewport, Raytheon Technologies
- Average Starting Salary: $68,000
Notable Alumni
- Christine Ferguson: Former Director of HealthSource RI
- Patrick McCarthy: CEO of The Annie E. Casey Foundation
- William F. Hatfield: President of Bank of America Rhode Island
- Theresa Devine: Executive Director of Newport Restoration Foundation