best colleges for economics

Best Universities for Business – An Introduction

Business currently ranks in the top 10 college majors at schools across the nation. This isn’t new—the business major has been popular for a long time. As you prepare your college applications, a business degree might spark your interest. 

Business majors tend to have high starting salaries upon graduation, and a degree from one of the best colleges for business gives you a wide variety of career options. The best universities for business provide students with highly transferable skills that will help them succeed. 

According to Niche, the top three best colleges for business are:

However, there’s a lot more to the best universities for business than any top three list can tell you. Plus, choosing a business major in college is only half the battle—many students will go on to apply to the best business schools and pursue an MBA. So, you’ll have a lot to think about as you choose which of the best colleges for business might suit your needs. 

Of course, choosing your major in college is a big decision. There are plenty of college majors that may interest you. However, there’s a reason the business major is so popular. In this guide, we’ll unpack the best business colleges in different regions and talk about the best business universities in the world. 

Let’s talk about everything business majors need to know, including the best business universities and best business colleges.

This Best College for Business guide will cover: 

  • Business as a major in college: is it right for you?
  • The best business universities and the best business colleges
  • The rankings for the best undergraduate business programs
  • Ivy League schools and their ranking as the best universities for business
  • College majors within the business field
  • Best undergraduate business schools in the world
  • Business majors vs economics majors: what’s the difference?
  • Life after studying at one of the best universities for business 

So, what exactly are the best business schools, including the best business universities and the best business colleges? And how do you know if the best undergraduate business programs are right for you? 

best universities for business

College Majors: Is business right for you?

Business has long been a popular choice of major for students. It follows, then, that many of the best universities for business are top-ranked schools. Business consistently ranks in the top 10 college majors and even came in as the most popular bachelor’s degree in the 2018-19 academic year.

Since the business major is so popular, you should think carefully about whether it’s the right choice for you. Applying to the best business schools can be stressful, and the best universities for business can be quite selective.

If you apply to the best business colleges, prepare your applications and essays carefully. Plus, the more you consider your application narrative, the stronger your applications will be, especially at the best business colleges. 

At some of the best business universities, you’ll have to explain your choice of major in your supplemental essays. So, think about what makes you want to pursue a business major. Perhaps you’ve had the entrepreneurial bug since you set up your first lemonade stand outside of your house in grade school. Or maybe you hope that one of the best universities for business or best business colleges will open up your employment prospects. Whatever the reason, use your applications to highlight your interests.

Business Majors: What a business degree can do for you

The best undergraduate business programs have a lot to offer their students. When you attend one of the best business colleges or pursue an MBA at one of the best business universities, you’ll have the chance to access: 

  • Career stability
  • High earning potential 
  • Management skills

These perks make business a popular major in college, ranking in the top 10 college majors consistently. 

Want to know what you can do after graduating from one of the best business universities or best business colleges? Check out these top ten best business jobs for 2022. This article will help you see what life after graduation from the best business schools or best universities for business could look like. 

best universities for business

What are the top ranked undergraduate business schools?

If you want to be a business major, it’s important to learn about the best undergraduate business schools. Let’s take a closer look at the best universities for business.

Top 5 best undergraduate business schools according to Niche in their 2023 list:

#1. University of Pennsylvania

Best universities for business

UPenn is home to the Wharton School, which is one of the top business schools in the country. For undergraduates and graduate students alike, UPenn is the gold standard when it comes to the best universities for business. 

# 2. University of Southern California

best universities for business

USC also has one of the best undergraduate business schools in the US. A degree from USC can help you achieve a high starting salary and boundless career prospects. 

# 3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

best universities for business - MIT

MIT’s Sloan School of Management consistently ranks among the best business schools. At this top school, you’re sure to get an excellent business education that will equip you with the tools you need to succeed. 

#4. Georgetown University

best universities for business- georgetown

Georgetown also has an excellent business program. Choosing a business major at Georgetown will expand your horizons and offer you plenty of opportunities, especially in government fields. 

#5. Washington University in Saint Louis

best universities for business - WashU

WashU is also home to one of the best undergraduate business schools in the US. If you’re looking for a southern university with an all-star business program, WashU might be one of the best universities for business for you. 

Behind the rankings

Earlier in this article, we mentioned the Wharton School at Penn, which ranks #1 on Niche’s list for the best college for business in the nation. Wharton is surely a top program and makes Penn one of the best universities for business worldwide. The business majors at Wharton focus on five key pillars: analytics, entrepreneurship and innovation, finance, global perspective, and leadership. 

Each of the best universities for business will offer students different opportunities. This might mean different course requirements, specializations, or internship opportunities

Think about the types of degrees within the business major that different programs offer. Then, think about which of these colleges will be the best undergraduate business schools for you. Don’t fixate on college rankings. Instead, try to make your college applications stand out. 

Each of the best undergraduate business programs will have different specialties. Check out U.S. News’ top picks for the best undergraduate business schools for different areas within the business major (accounting, management, international business, etc.).

What are the best undergraduate business schools in Forbes?

When looking for the best undergraduate business schools, it makes sense to look to Forbes, one of the most well-known business magazines in the world. So, what does Forbes have to say when it comes to the best undergraduate business schools in the US?

Forbes prides itself on its college rankings, and the best colleges for business are no exception. Here’s the full list of the best undergraduate business schools in Forbes.

The Top 10 best undergraduate business schools according to Forbes include: 

  1. University of Chicago
  2. Stanford University
  3. Northwestern University
  4. Harvard University
  5. University of Pennsylvania
  6. Dartmouth University
  7. Columbia University
  8. MIT
  9. Cornell University
  10. University of Michigan

Some of these same best undergraduate business schools in Forbes also showed up most recently on Forbes’ America’s Top Colleges list. MIT came in at #1 on the list, and Stanford came in at #3. Both of these colleges are some of the best undergraduate business schools, but they’re also some of the best colleges worldwide. So, as you can imagine, competition at the best colleges for business will be tough. 

Let’s check out Forbes’ #1 pick as the best college for business: The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. With three global campuses, Booth prides itself on educating leaders who truly want to change the world. For graduate students, Booth offers MBA programs and PhD programs in business. 

Does Booth make the cut in your “best universities for business” list? If not, there’s no lack of options when it comes to the best college for business. Check out the other best business universities on the Forbes list. Even if Booth isn’t right for you, you’re sure to find the best business colleges for you with a bit of research. 

What is the #1 business school in the world?

best business colleges

There are some discrepancies when it comes to the #1 business school in the world. The best undergraduate business schools in the world will vary according to the ranking source. Let’s check out a few different sources so you can see all of the best business universities worldwide. 

U.S. News has specific college rankings for the Best Global Universities for Economics and Business.

According to U.S. News, the best universities for business in the world are: 

  1. Harvard University
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  3. Stanford University
  4. UC Berkeley
  5. University of Chicago

However, not all of the best colleges for business are located in the United States. So, if you’re looking to study in another country, you can still find some of the best business colleges abroad. 

CEOWORLD Magazine, a top ranking business magazine for CEOs, has their own ranking of the best universities for business, particularly for graduate students.

Their list of the best business schools includes:

  1. London Business School
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  3. University of Pennsylvania
  4. Harvard University
  5. Oxford University

However, keep in mind that this list refers primarily to graduate programs. So, as you plan for the future, keep these schools in mind. Still, note that this list of the best universities for business doesn’t include all of the best business colleges for undergraduates. 

best colleges for economics

For example, Bloomberg placed Stanford as #1 in their college rankings list of the World’s Best Business Schools and MBA programs. This makes Stanford one of the best universities for business at the graduate level. 

As you can see, each list of the best universities for business in the world uses slightly different metrics. So, if you’re looking for the best business schools in the world, you have options. Use these rankings as a tool, but remember to foreground your own needs. 

There are many international options for students when it comes to business as a major in college, even if they didn’t pop up as #1. Remember that college rankings aren’t everything when it comes to choosing the best business universities for you. 

If you’re interested in studying business internationally, you could look for study abroad programs within the business programs at your schools of interest. Students will certainly benefit from this experience, especially if studying international business. 

Best undergraduate business schools in California

best universities for business- USC

As you build your college list and explore college majors, you’re likely thinking a lot about location. We’ve gotten into some of the best colleges for business in the world and in the US, but what if you’ve got your sights set on the best colleges for business in one state in particular?

A lot of students find the idea of pursuing a business major (or any major) in California appealing. It is, after all, the sunshine state. So, what are the best undergraduate business schools in California? 

Niche has released their 2023 Best Colleges for Business in California. This list highlights some of the best undergraduate business programs in the state. 

The UC system dominates Niche’s Best Colleges for Business list. However, USC takes the #1 spot as the best college for business on the list. What does the USC Marshall School of Business have to offer its students that makes it stand out from the rest? 

One of the most important parts of attending USC Marshall is its pre-professional bent. About 90% of students complete an internship and 46% of students at Niche’s “best college for business” complete three or more internships. This experience allows Marshall graduates to have an average starting salary of $64,172. 

The best business colleges in California for you may not make the top 5 in Niche’s Best Colleges for Business list. There are many schools to choose from, and each of the best undergraduate business schools is unique. Check out the rest of the options in the Best Colleges for Business list for more inspiration. Or, look at other schools in the state to help you to build a best colleges for business list for you. Factor in things like enrollment, class size, areas of specialization, and the campus vibe. 

As you think about the best universities for business, remember to center your own goals. The best undergraduate business schools in the US (and the best undergraduate business schools in the world) have a lot to offer their students. However, it’s not all about the rankings. While college rankings can give you an idea of the best universities for business, your own needs matter most.

Top 10 College Majors: Business

As we’ve discussed, business is a popular choice among students. It’s one of the top 10 college majors, and many students will pursue a business major or similar during their undergraduate studies. If you attend one of the best colleges for business, you’ll learn a lot and acquire plenty of useful hard and soft skills. 

All to say, you’re certainly not the only one searching for the best business colleges. So, what exactly would studying this major in college at one of the best universities for business entail? And what would your courses be like at the best college for business?

The best business schools, best business colleges, and best business universities provide their graduates with transferable skills. For this reason, graduates with business college majors are highly sought after in the professional world. This means that graduates of the best business universities and the best business colleges end up making higher starting salaries.

best universities for business

Another factor that makes business as a college major stand out is the amount of subject choice within the field. At the best colleges for business, you can choose to concentrate in any number of subjects. After all, business is a vast industry, and the best universities for business recognize this. The best undergraduate business programs will offer options from finance to business psychology. And, if you choose your best college for business right, you’ll be able to cater your business major to fit your interests and career goals. 

The role of a college major

Overall, college majors should act as tools to help you achieve your aspirations. By studying at one of the best undergraduate business schools in the US—or one of the best undergraduate business schools in the world—you can start yourself on the path to success. 

Many students search for the best business colleges, the best universities for business, or the best business schools because business college majors are highly employable and well-prepared for the professional world. Paired with other areas of study, there are no limits to your career choices. The best business colleges and the best universities for business will provide ample opportunities to their graduates. 

Students who graduate with business majors tend to have higher salaries after they attend the best business schools, best business colleges, and the best business universities. According to Forbes, business majors have the highest earning potential, after STEM majors. So, there’s a reason why the best business schools are so sought after. 

Best Business Colleges: Why is business a top 10 college major? 

As we’ve discussed, a business major is one of the most popular college majors among undergraduate students, easily making its way to the top 10 college majors. Lots of high school students are trying to find the best business schools, best college for business, best undergraduate business schools, and best business universities around. Maybe it’s the new “side hustle” culture that has students seeing the value in entrepreneurial and business skills. Whatever it is, there’s no denying that business as a popular major in college is here to stay. 

Business does consistently rank in the top 10 college majors, after all. So, what’s with all the hype surrounding business as a major in college? Why does it seem like everyone is searching for the best business schools, the best college for business, best undergraduate business schools, or the best business universities? Well, as we’ve seen, it is one of the highest earning college majors. Not to mention its great job security and availability across sectors. 

A business degree from one of the best universities for business, best undergraduate business schools, or best colleges for business will give you valuable skills that many companies look for. Or, if you’re thinking about entrepreneurship, there’s no better place to start. A business degree from some of the best business schools could also enhance another field of study. Why not combine college majors and make yourself an even more competitive graduate in the workforce? 

What kind of jobs can you get after attending one of the best business universities or best colleges for business? Well, quite a few, really. So, as you work on your college applications, think about your career goals. After all, you’ll have plenty of options. 

Graduates of the best undergraduate business programs, often pursue careers like:

  1. Finance Director
  2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  3. VP of Finance
  4. Tax Director
  5. Accounting Partner

You won’t lack options after obtaining a business degree from one of the best business schools, or really any business school. From financial manager to fundraiser, the best colleges for business and the best universities for business will open many professional doors. 

Check out these high paying business jobs you could apply for after attending the best college for business or one of the best universities for business.

Which Ivy Leagues have undergraduate business programs?

When considering the best undergraduate business programs, it makes sense that the Ivy Leagues come to mind. While some of the best undergraduate business schools in the world aren’t Ivy Leagues, you certainly can find some of the best undergraduate business programs at these well-known, elite universities

There are eight Ivy League schools that are all located in the Northeast. Ivy League colleges are extremely competitive when it comes to college admissions. All of them have a low acceptance rate, high GPA requirements, and come in at the top of national college rankings. Some of these top colleges are also the best universities for business. 

Some of the best business colleges at Ivy League schools include: 

You can find a business major, or some variant of a business major, at each of the Ivy League schools. However, two Ivy League schools do not have a specific business school: Princeton and Brown. Princeton offers entrepreneurship, economics, and finance majors instead of the standard business major. 

Brown will only offer a business, entrepreneurship, and organizations major (BEO) for students through and including the class of 2023. After that, the major will change to give students the option to study within the sociology or economics major. Students can also pursue an entrepreneurship certificate. 

The other six Ivy League schools do have dedicated business schools. One of the best undergraduate business programs in the nation is at the University of Pennsylvania. Penn ranked as #1 on the best universities for business according to U.S. News. Cornell University also made the list as one of the best universities for business at #8. 

The Wharton School (Penn’s business school) is one the best business schools in the world, consistently ranking at the top of the “best universities for business” lists. From undergraduate degrees through doctoral studies in business, Wharton provides its students with many further education options. Wharton aims to “change the way business is done” through their prestigious, world-renowned business program. Their alumni tend to do just that, ensuring Wharton’s spot on many “best universities for business” lists. 

best colleges for economics

Best business schools

What are the best business schools? Well, similarly to any other major in college, the best business universities and the best colleges for business will depend on your personal preferences and needs. 

The same core courses will appear in almost every business degree at every school, whether it’s one of the best business schools or not.  However, additional and specialized courses will vary greatly among the best colleges for business or the best universities for business. 

The best business schools, the best colleges for business, and the best universities for business will be those that meet your study interests. For example, you may know that you want to focus on entrepreneurship or international business. Check out the specific programs in different college majors to find the best universities for business, best business colleges, and best undergraduate business schools for you. 

What exactly are the best undergraduate business schools and programs?

The best universities for business are ones that meet your specific interests and needs. Check out U.S. News’ top picks for best universities for business and best business colleges split up by specific business programs. U.S. News also ranks the best undergraduate business schools here

As business will likely continue to rank in the top 10 college majors, there will continue to be plenty of lists of best business schools, best business colleges, and best universities for business out there. Before deciding on the school for you, make sure that it meets your specific needs. 

How do you know what are the best business schools for you? Start by making a list of what you want from your university experience. Think about what you’re looking for from a business program. Then, choose schools and college majors that fit with this list. Those will be the best business colleges, best business universities, or best undergraduate business schools for you. 

Are you looking for a combined BA/MBA program? Are you interested in the niches of real estate or quantitative analysis? The best college for business or the best universities for business for you will be the one that matches most (or maybe even all) of your criteria. 

Is NYU a good business school?

The NYU Stern School of Business is one of the best undergraduate business programs in the US. According to U.S. News, NYU ranks as #12 in their best business schools list and #4 in part-time MBA programs. 

Since Stern comes out as one of the top “best business schools” in the college rankings, it makes sense that it has a low acceptance rate. The acceptance rate at Stern is 7%, lower than that of many of the best business schools. 

best universities for business- NYU

Why are college admissions to the NYU Stern School of Business so competitive? Well, a low acceptance rate tells us that the NYU Stern School of Business receives many applications from students who are vying for a spot in one of the best universities for business. To keep enrollment manageable, NYU Stern School of Business has to be selective. 

Deciding if Stern is one of the best business universities for you is an important thing to think about. We know that it ranks as one of the best business schools nationwide, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s for you. When thinking about college admissions anywhere, it’s vital to look at the fit of the college, not just GPA requirements, acceptance rate, and college rankings. 

The NYU Stern School of Business offers 5 college majors: 

  • BS in Business
  • BS in Business & Political Economy
  • BS/BFA in Film & TV, 
  • BS/MS in Accounting
  • BS in Business, Technology and Entrepreneurship. 

Stern’s campus is located in the heart of New York City. This provides a lot of opportunity, but it could also be overwhelming for some students. The average class size is usually about 40 students in this major in college. 

When deciding if Stern is the school for you, it’s important to think about all these facts and more. The NYU Stern School of Business is one of the best undergraduate business schools in the US, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best college for business for you. 

What college is best for a business major?

Many college rankings lists will state the best colleges for business or the best universities for business. But, the best business schools are the ones that get you excited and motivated to work on your college applications, meet the GPA requirements, and beat the school’s acceptance rate. Your “Best Business Schools” list will likely look completely different than another student’s. 

Try not to get too caught up in prestigious programs. The business major is consistently one of the most popular college majors, ranking in the top 10 college majors in recent years. That means that there are many great programs and “best business universities” for a business major to choose from. 

First consider which business major is right for you

When looking for the best business colleges, think about why the business major appeals to you. Are you interested in entrepreneurship, or do you want to learn about marketing? Maybe you’re interested in a global career and want to study international business. Your personal interests within the business major will help you to choose the best colleges for business for you. 

Learn more about some of the basic business majors and see what you think. You can always check out options to double major or minor in order to cater your business major to your needs. This will help you narrow down your options when building your “best business universities” list. Different schools will have different specializations, so it’s important to decide what you want from your business major according to your interests and career goals. 

What business degree is in high demand?

Business majors are one of the most popular college majors, ranking in the top 10 college majors year after year. The best undergraduate business programs at the best universities for business and the best business colleges will provide students with an education that has many practical uses. Business majors tend to focus on leadership and managerial skills.

While the business major may have caught many students’ eyes, they might not be aware of the amplitude of choices within that major in college. What do I mean by that? Business majors can choose to focus and study in a variety of areas at the best business colleges.

Many of the best undergraduate business programs offer more than just a standard business administration degree. Students can specialize in an area that most interests them.

Some areas of specialization within the business major include:

  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • Healthcare administration
  • Project management
  • Public administration 
  • International business
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Fashion merchandising

We can see the range of options within the business major from that list—which are just some of the top business majors that students can choose. The best colleges for business and the best universities for business will likely provide even more options. 

We know that as a business major at the best business universities and best business colleges, students will have many options. But, what’s a business degree that is in high demand? Well, all business majors will give you practical skills. As you apply to the best universities for business, try to find the specialty that most speaks to you.

Consider marketing 

Currently, one of the most in demand business degrees is a business degree in marketing. It actually tops the list of the highest paying business majors. Business and marketing are two of the most popular college majors, so it makes sense that the combination of the two is in high demand. 

Not interested in marketing at the best universities for business? No problem; there are plenty of in-demand options within this major in college. Check out some more of the most in-demand business majors here to give you some extra motivation when applying to the best business colleges.

Best Colleges for Business: Applying to college

Since the business major is consistently in the top 10 college majors, there’s no lack of options when it comes to the best universities for business or the best colleges for business. But how can you ensure that your college applications to the best business colleges catch the eye of college admissions officers? 

In most cases, the college admissions process will be the same for business as for any college major. The best universities for business will look for the same key requirements as other college majors.

best universities for business

A few things business colleges will want to see in your college applications:

Keep in mind that many of the best colleges for business are also quite selective. Start your applications early to improve your college admissions odds at the best business schools.  

Most of the best undergraduate business programs at the best universities for business won’t require a separate application process. You will likely be able to complete your college applications as normal and later declare a business major. However, there are a limited number of selective BA/MBA programs that will require their own specific process. With this in mind, the “best undergraduate business programs” aren’t always more selective. But, if the school itself is more selective, then they may well be. 

What does that mean to you as you apply to the best business colleges or the best business universities? 

Basically, don’t be intimidated by the “best universities for business,” “best business colleges,” or “best business schools” lists. Bolster your college applications in the same way you would for any college major. That’s the best way to successfully stand out to college admissions and get into the best business universities. After all, the best business colleges will have high standards. 

Motivation to get into the best colleges for business can be a huge factor when it comes to impressing college admissions. Getting into the best universities for business takes more than just meeting the GPA requirements; it takes passion and a compelling personal narrative.

Finally, check out these 2022 top ranked best undergraduate business schools and best universities for business to give you some inspiration while completing your college applications. 

Comparing college majors: Economics vs. Business programs

best universities for business

Economics and business majors often get lumped together. However, they are two different college majors. These college majors can certainly be taken together. You may also choose to study them individually or pair them with other subjects. Those decisions will depend on your future career goals. 

It’s important to understand that the best colleges for business, the best universities for business, and the best business schools in general may not have the best undergraduate economics programs. However, both business and economics rank in the top 10 college majors, so there is no lack of options when it comes to finding quality programs for each. 

Economics also has a high earning potential post-graduation. You can pair it with other subjects such as law and medicine, increasing your earning potential and employability even more. Students interested in economics should enjoy analyzing data, as it will be a large portion of any potential career opportunities. 

As mentioned above, high earning potential and career opportunities make business and economics two of the top 10 college majors.

Business and economics majors can also expand their careers to other fields such as:

  • Government
  • Consulting 
  • International politics
  • Nonprofit management

The combinations and possibilities are truly endless, making each a popular major in college. There’s a niche and job opportunity for all interests. 

Both business and economics are in the top 10 college majors. While economics and business degrees are two college majors that are closely related, there are key differences between them. Before searching “best universities for economics” or “best universities for business” you should have an idea of which major in college appeals to you more. 

Similarities and differences

U.S. News defines an economics major as, “a degree option that examines questions related to resource allocation, incentives and wealth, among others.” Economics is the study of human behavior when faced with scarcity or difficult decisions. It combines a variety of disciplines: business, politics, sociology, history, and more. 

In contrast, business college majors from the best business schools will study subjects such as finance, accounting, and marketing – depending on students’ interests. Business college majors learn about how businesses operate, while economics students will study human behavior and financial decisions more broadly. 

While some introductory courses in both economics and business will be similar, as students continue on in their college majors, the courses for each will differ greatly.

When choosing between these two college majors, consider your interests, skills, and future career goals. Look at potential career options to see the difference between the two majors. Furthermore, consider the level of competition in the market. In general, there are more business major graduates than economics majors. Generally, as an economics major, you will enter a less competitive job market with higher salaries. 

Deciding between business and economics

Check out the specific differences between these two college majors: business and economics. This will help you decide whether to look for the best business universities or the best universities for economics. Be sure to understand these differences if you want to choose the best undergraduate business schools for you. 

Career options are a huge factor when deciding a major in college. Want to learn more about the careers you can get after studying economics? Check out the different career opportunities an economics major in college can give you. 

Planning for the future

best universities for business

You’ve read every “best college for business,” “best universities for business,” “best business schools,” and “best undergraduate business schools” list on the web. You’ve decided firmly on a business major in college. So, what happens after you attend the best college for business or one of the best universities for business? 

Life after graduation may look different depending on the type of business major that you pursue. No matter if you attended one of the best colleges for business, you will likely have many postgraduate options with your newly acquired business degree. 

Further study is a popular choice. Business majors from the best business universities, best business colleges and best undergraduate business schools often apply to MBA programs at the best business schools. 

Applying to graduate programs at the best business schools can be competitive. Just like with the best undergraduate business schools, start early to have the best chances of admission and scholarships to the best business colleges and the best business universities.

Best Business Schools: Pursuing an MBA after undergrad

The MBA application process to the best business schools is notoriously tedious. Experts recommend giving yourself one and a half to two years in order to build the most competitive candidate profile and application. 

Many of the best business schools admit students in rounds. You have the best chance at admissions to the best colleges for business and the best universities for business in the earlier rounds. There will be less spots available later on. However, don’t rush through the process and send in a mediocre application to the best business schools. Plan strategically and carefully to have the best odds at getting into the best business universities and the best business colleges. 

Read for more details on the MBA program application process to decide if it’s for you.  

You can apply to some of the best business schools for graduate studies without a business BA. Many schools will consider applicants who don’t have an undergraduate degree in business from the best business colleges or the best business universities. While a bachelor’s in business from one of the best business schools will likely help you in the MBA application process, it isn’t a requirement. 

Best Colleges for Business: Final Takeaways

The best undergraduate business schools will be different for everyone. However, one thing is for certain—as one of the top 10 college majors, there is no shortage of best business universities and best business colleges options. With some time and research, you’re sure to find the best business schools for you!

As you think about college majors, you might consider a combined BA/MBA program. However, programs to get into the best business schools are limited and often highly competitive. Ask yourself if it’s worth it for you to apply directly to a BA/MBA program. 

You may prefer to look at the best undergraduate business schools and then later consider applying to graduate programs. Every student’s education path looks different. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding the best business universities and best business colleges for you. 

So, how to get into one of the best business universities or one of the best business colleges? Start by creating a “best undergraduate business schools” list just for you

Tips for creating your best business schools list: 

best universities for business

Think about your general preferences

Do you want to go to a big university or would you prefer a smaller school? Where would you like to be located? Are there other college majors you want to pursue? What is campus life like? Check out best business colleges, best business universities, and best undergraduate business schools lists to see if any schools appeal to you. Then, dig deeper into the specifics of those best business schools to see if one in particular resonates with you. 

Narrow down your list based on the best business schools

How is the business program rated? Do they have specializations that interest you? What do their graduates go on to do with their degrees? The best undergraduate business schools for you should not only be highly ranked—they should also spark your interest.

Consider BA/MBA program options

Think about the best business schools with BA/MBA programs. You’ll want to know if you want to go directly into a five-year BA/MBA program or just look at the best undergraduate business schools. If you decide to apply, start extra early and make sure that your application is as competitive. This will help you get into the best business colleges and best business universities. 

Start early

No matter if you’re applying to a BA/MBA program or not, getting into some of the best universities for business, best business colleges, or best undergraduate business schools will require early preparation. Start the application process early to make sure that you build a competitive candidate profile, write stellar essays, meet any GPA requirements, and highlight your extracurriculars in the best possible way. 

Finding the best business universities and best business colleges for you can be a difficult task. And with plenty of college majors out there, you want to ensure you find the right fit for you. Know that if you choose business as a major in college, you will graduate with a set of useful skills that will be applicable in a variety of career settings. 

So, get excited about the process. Remember, the best way to get into the best business schools is by starting early. Start creating your best colleges for business or best universities for business lists today!

best universities for business

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski. If you want to get help with your college applications from CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts, click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

Also, check out our other guides to Top Engineering Colleges and Best Liberal Arts Colleges as you build your college list!