Best MBA Programs in New Mexico

University of New Mexico – Anderson School of Management

Overview

The Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico (UNM) is the premier MBA program in the state, offering a well-rounded curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various industries. Located in Albuquerque, the Anderson MBA program is known for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, with strong ties to the energy, healthcare, and technology sectors. The program offers both full-time and part-time options, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. Anderson provides a range of concentrations, including finance, marketing, operations management, and international business. The school’s strategic partnerships with major companies and government institutions in New Mexico give students ample opportunities for internships and employment after graduation.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
  • Number of Students: ~120 (Class size)
  • Acceptance Rate: 50%
  • Average GMAT Score: 610 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
  • Top Hiring Companies: Sandia National Laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Intel, PNM Resources, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Average Starting Salary: $85,000

Notable Alumni

  • Deborah L. Armstrong: Former New Mexico State Representative
  • Ernest Moniz: Former U.S. Secretary of Energy
  • Joanne McEntire: Director at New Mexico Finance Authority
  • Richard P. Anklam: President and Executive Director of New Mexico Tax Research Institute

New Mexico State University – College of Business

Overview

New Mexico State University’s (NMSU) College of Business, located in Las Cruces, offers a highly regarded MBA program known for its affordability and practical approach to business education. The program is designed for both recent graduates and working professionals, offering flexible full-time and part-time options. NMSU’s MBA curriculum focuses on developing leadership, communication, and analytical skills, with specializations available in finance, data analytics, project management, and supply chain management. NMSU has strong partnerships with industries critical to the regional economy, such as agriculture, energy, and aerospace, providing students with excellent internship and job placement opportunities.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
  • Number of Students: ~80 (Class size)
  • Acceptance Rate: 60%
  • Average GMAT Score: 580 (GMAT waivers available for professionals with relevant experience)
  • Top Hiring Companies: Sandia National Laboratories, NASA, Honeywell, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Lockheed Martin, ExxonMobil
  • Average Starting Salary: $75,000

Notable Alumni

  • Michael L. Connor: Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior
  • Alfredo Gutierrez: CEO of Altura Engineering & Design
  • Don Kidd: Founder of Western Commerce Bank
  • Barbara Damron: Former New Mexico Secretary of Higher Education

Eastern New Mexico University – College of Business

Overview

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) offers an affordable and flexible MBA program designed for students seeking a strong foundation in business principles. Located in Portales, New Mexico, ENMU’s MBA program is ideal for working professionals who require a flexible schedule, with both on-campus and online learning options available. The program focuses on building leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills while providing students with the knowledge to succeed in industries such as healthcare, education, and public administration. ENMU’s MBA is well-regarded for its personalized approach, with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
  • Number of Students: ~40 (Class size)
  • Acceptance Rate: 70%
  • Average GMAT Score: 550 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
  • Top Hiring Companies: Roosevelt General Hospital, City of Portales, New Mexico State Government, U.S. Forest Service, Eastern New Mexico University
  • Average Starting Salary: $65,000

Notable Alumni

  • Bill Bizzell: CEO of Bizzell Consulting Services
  • Glen Fenter: President of New Mexico Junior College
  • Maria Zapata: Director of Human Resources at Clovis Municipal Schools
  • Steve Watson: CFO of Roosevelt General Hospital

New Mexico Highlands University – School of Business, Media, and Technology

Overview

New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) offers a well-rounded MBA program through its School of Business, Media, and Technology. Located in Las Vegas, New Mexico, NMHU’s MBA program focuses on developing leadership and technical skills, preparing graduates for careers in business, government, and nonprofit organizations. The program offers specializations in areas such as healthcare management, marketing, and accounting. NMHU’s strong emphasis on experiential learning gives students hands-on experience through internships, consulting projects, and community engagement. The program is designed for both full-time students and working professionals, with evening and online classes available to accommodate busy schedules.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
  • Number of Students: ~50 (Class size)
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Average GMAT Score: 530 (GMAT waivers available for professionals with work experience)
  • Top Hiring Companies: New Mexico Health Resources, Bank of Las Vegas, U.S. Department of Agriculture, New Mexico Highlands University, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Average Starting Salary: $60,000

Notable Alumni

  • George Dodge Jr.: Former New Mexico State Representative
  • Charles Gonzales: Vice President at Los Alamos National Bank
  • Maria Sanchez-Gagne: Director of the New Mexico Office of the Attorney General
  • Alan Webber: Mayor of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Western New Mexico University – School of Business

Overview

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) offers a flexible and affordable MBA program tailored to working professionals. Located in Silver City, New Mexico, the WNMU MBA program is available both on-campus and online, making it accessible to students who need flexibility in their schedules. The program focuses on practical business skills, leadership development, and ethical decision-making. WNMU’s MBA offers concentrations in management, accounting, and marketing. The school’s small class sizes and close interaction with faculty create a supportive learning environment. WNMU’s MBA program is well-regarded for preparing graduates for leadership roles in small businesses, government, and nonprofit organizations.

Program Details

  • Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
  • Number of Students: ~30 (Class size)
  • Acceptance Rate: 70%
  • Average GMAT Score: 540 (GMAT waivers available)
  • Top Hiring Companies: Silver Health Care, Gila Regional Medical Center, Freeport-McMoRan, Western New Mexico University, U.S. Forest Service
  • Average Starting Salary: $58,000

Notable Alumni

  • Mike Stone: CEO of Gila Regional Medical Center
  • Francesca Estevan: Director of Marketing at Freeport-McMoRan
  • Daniel Salazar: Former CFO of New Mexico State Lottery
  • John Hays: Senior VP at Silver Health Care