Kellogg School of Management
What is Kellogg?
The Kellogg School of Management is Northwestern University’s graduate business school, based in Evanston, Illinois. Founded in 1908 (originally the School of Commerce) and renamed in 1979 after a gift from the John L. and Helen Kellogg Foundation, Kellogg is known for interdisciplinary learning, global programs, and strong employer connections. Its full‑time MBA is consistently ranked among the top programs in the United States.
History and campuses
- Founded 1908; renamed J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management in 1979.
- Main campus in Evanston, with additional sites in Chicago and Miami.
- Global footprint includes programs or partnerships in Germany, Canada, Israel, and China.
Programs
- Full‑time MBA (typical duration: two years).
- Part‑time MBA options (evening and weekend) and Executive MBA for working professionals.
- Specialized offerings include MBAi — a program focused on business and artificial intelligence.
- Additional postgraduate programs, certificates, and a graduate degree in management studies.
Class profile and admissions
- Full‑time MBA class (2023–24): 503 students; 38% international.
- Average GPA: 3.7.
- Average GMAT: 729. GRE averages: ~162 verbal / 163 quantitative.
- Kellogg typically receives several thousand applications each year (U.S. News reported 4,187 applications for 2023–24) and is competitive — roughly a 30% acceptance rate (about 1,316 full‑time admits reported for 2023–24).
Reputation and career outcomes
- Frequently ranked among the top U.S. business schools (U.S. News placed Kellogg as the #2 full‑time MBA program in 2023).
- Common employment sectors for graduates: management consulting, technology, and financial services.
- Top employers include McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company, and major technology firms such as Amazon.
- Reported average starting salary for MBA graduates in 2023: $164,000.
Cost of attendance (2023 figures)
One‑year MBA (total):
– Tuition: $112,336
– Food & housing: $26,400
– Books, supplies, other: $23,659
– Total: $162,395
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Two‑year MBA (annual / total):
– Tuition (per year): $81,015
– Food & housing (per year): $19,800
– Books, supplies, other (per year): $19,617
– Total per year: $120,432
– Total for two years: $240,864
FAQs
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Is a Kellogg MBA worth it?
Kellogg’s brand, network, and strong placement into consulting, tech, and finance make its MBA a high‑value option for many applicants. Whether it’s worth the cost depends on career goals, industry targets, and personal finances. -
What GPA do you need to get into Kellogg?
There is no fixed cutoff, but competitive applicants typically have GPA near or above the class average (around 3.7). -
Is Kellogg better than Harvard?
“Better” depends on fit: each school has distinct strengths, culture, curriculum, and career networks. Compare programs based on your goals rather than overall prestige alone.
Bottom line
Kellogg is one of the United States’ top business schools, noted for collaborative culture, global reach, and strong employer ties. Admissions are competitive and costs are substantial, but graduates frequently secure high‑paying roles at leading firms, making Kellogg an attractive option for those aiming for top consulting, tech, or finance careers.