The QS Global MBA and Business Master’s Rankings 2025 have been released, with US institutions securing the top four positions. Stanford Graduate School of Business’s MBA program retains its title as the world’s number one for the fifth consecutive year.
The Wharton School and Harvard Business School follow closely in second and third place, respectively. The rankings analyzed MBAs from 58 countries, evaluating factors such as employability, thought leadership, diversity, return on investment and alumni outcomes.
QS President Nunzio Quacquarelli emphasized the significance of these rankings, stating, “By providing a detailed comparative analysis, these rankings help prospective students make informed decisions about programs that align with their career goals.”
US Institutions Lead the Pack
The US dominates the MBA rankings, with 11 institutions in the top 20. Stanford GSB excelled in alumni outcomes and graduate employability. The UK’s London Business School broke the US streak, securing fifth place with impressive employability and alumni outcomes.
Asian institutions were notably absent from the top 20, with the National University of Singapore Business School ranking 25th. Europe’s top MBA program, HEC Paris, ranked sixth globally, boasting exceptional thought leadership and alumni outcomes.
Global Rankings Breakdown
The top 20 institutions hail from only five countries: the US, UK, France, Spain and Italy. Other notable rankings include:
- Toronto (Rotman) as Canada’s highest-ranked MBA (39th globally)
- Melbourne Business School as Australia’s national leader (32nd globally)
- IE Business School in Spain ranking ninth overall
Specialized Business Master’s Rankings
The 2025 rankings also feature the world’s best specialized business master’s programs. HEC Paris tops the global rankings for master’s in management and master’s in marketing.
Shift in Student Preferences
A 2024 report indicates a growing trend of students considering alternative career development options, such as professional qualifications and master’s degrees, over traditional MBAs.
QS Rankings Methodology
The rankings are based on:
– Employability (35%)
– Thought Leadership (25%)
– Diversity (10%)
– Return on Investment (15%)
– Alumni Outcomes (15%) These rankings provide valuable insights for prospective students seeking to shape their professional paths.
