Top 6 Universities for MBA Programs in Evanston
Pursuing an MBA is a significant step towards advancing one’s career, and choosing the right institution is crucial. Evanston, located just north of Chicago, offers some excellent MBA programs. This blog post will delve into the top six universities for MBA programs in Evanston, providing an in-depth look at what makes each institution unique.
1. Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University
Overview
The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University is one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Known for its strong emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and experiential learning, Kellogg offers a robust MBA program designed to produce well-rounded business leaders.
Key Features
- Program Length: 1-Year and 2-Year MBA programs
- Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and more
- Average GMAT Score: 730
- Tuition Fees: $76,368 per year
- Global Opportunities: Exchange programs with 37 partner institutions globally
Notable Alumni
- Ted Phillips, President and CEO of the Chicago Bears
- Mallika Chopra, Author and Founder of Intent.com
- James L. Kraft, Founder of Kraft Foods
Table: Kellogg MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 1-Year and 2-Year MBA programs |
| Specializations | Finance, Marketing, Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and more |
| Average GMAT Score | 730 |
| Tuition Fees | $76,368 per year |
| Global Opportunities | Exchange programs with 37 partner institutions globally |
2. Lake Forest Graduate School of Management
Overview
Located near Evanston, Lake Forest Graduate School of Management offers a flexible MBA program tailored for working professionals. The school focuses on practical, real-world applications of business theory.
Key Features
- Program Length: 2-4 years (part-time)
- Specializations: Global Business, Finance, Healthcare, Organizational Behavior
- Average GMAT Score: Not required
- Tuition Fees: $71,370 total for the MBA program
- Flexible Schedule: Evening and weekend classes
Notable Alumni
- Stephanie Pace Marshall, Founding President of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
- Ron Kaminski, CEO of Milhouse Engineering & Construction, Inc.
Table: Lake Forest MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 2-4 years (part-time) |
| Specializations | Global Business, Finance, Healthcare, Organizational Behavior |
| Average GMAT Score | Not required |
| Tuition Fees | $71,370 total |
| Flexible Schedule | Evening and weekend classes |
3. Loyola University Chicago Quinlan School of Business
Overview
While Loyola University is based in Chicago, its proximity to Evanston makes it a viable option for MBA students in the area. The Quinlan School of Business is known for its strong ethical foundation and commitment to social responsibility.
Key Features
- Program Length: 2 years (full-time), 3-5 years (part-time)
- Specializations: Marketing, Finance, Health Care Management, Data Analytics
- Average GMAT Score: 620
- Tuition Fees: $1,525 per credit hour
- Ethical Focus: Emphasis on ethics and social responsibility in business
Notable Alumni
- Sheila G. Talton, CEO of Gray Matter Analytics
- Tom Dart, Sheriff of Cook County, Illinois
Table: Quinlan School of Business MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 2 years (full-time), 3-5 years (part-time) |
| Specializations | Marketing, Finance, Health Care Management, Data Analytics |
| Average GMAT Score | 620 |
| Tuition Fees | $1,525 per credit hour |
| Ethical Focus | Emphasis on ethics and social responsibility in business |
4. University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Overview
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, while located in Chicago, is another excellent choice for Evanston residents. Booth is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and its emphasis on quantitative analysis.
Key Features
- Program Length: 2 years (full-time), 3-4 years (part-time)
- Specializations: Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, International Business
- Average GMAT Score: 731
- Tuition Fees: $77,841 per year
- Analytical Focus: Strong emphasis on analytical and quantitative skills
Notable Alumni
- Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft
- Jon Corzine, Former Governor of New Jersey
- Joe Mansueto, Founder of Morningstar, Inc.
Table: Booth School of Business MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 2 years (full-time), 3-4 years (part-time) |
| Specializations | Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, International Business |
| Average GMAT Score | 731 |
| Tuition Fees | $77,841 per year |
| Analytical Focus | Strong emphasis on analytical and quantitative skills |
5. DePaul University Kellstadt Graduate School of Business
Overview
DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers a variety of MBA programs that are well-suited for professionals looking to advance their careers. The school’s downtown Chicago location provides ample networking opportunities for Evanston residents.
Key Features
- Program Length: 2 years (full-time), 3-5 years (part-time)
- Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Real Estate, Management
- Average GMAT Score: 610
- Tuition Fees: $1,080 per credit hour
- Networking Opportunities: Strong connections with Chicago’s business community
Notable Alumni
- Richard H. Driehaus, Founder of Driehaus Capital Management
- Karen Teitelbaum, CEO of Sinai Health System
Table: Kellstadt Graduate School of Business MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 2 years (full-time), 3-5 years (part-time) |
| Specializations | Finance, Marketing, Real Estate, Management |
| Average GMAT Score | 610 |
| Tuition Fees | $1,080 per credit hour |
| Networking Opportunities | Strong connections with Chicago’s business community |
6. Northeastern Illinois University College of Business and Management
Overview
Northeastern Illinois University offers a practical and affordable MBA program. Located just a short drive from Evanston, it provides a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
Key Features
- Program Length: 2-3 years (part-time)
- Specializations: Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing
- Average GMAT Score: 500
- Tuition Fees: $500 per credit hour
- Affordability: One of the most affordable MBA programs in the region
Notable Alumni
- José M. Hernández, Former NASA Astronaut
- Luis Gutiérrez, Former U.S. Congressman
Table: Northeastern Illinois University MBA Program Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 2-3 years (part-time) |
| Specializations | Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing |
| Average GMAT Score | 500 |
| Tuition Fees | $500 per credit hour |
| Affordability | One of the most affordable MBA programs in the region |
Conclusion
Choosing the right MBA program is a critical decision that can shape your professional future. The institutions listed above offer diverse programs, specializations, and opportunities that cater to various needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize a prestigious reputation, flexible scheduling, strong ethical foundations, or affordability, there’s an MBA program in Evanston that fits your goals. Research thoroughly, visit campuses if possible, and talk to alumni to make an informed choice. Good luck on your journey to earning an MBA!
