Hi Everyone,

I need some guidance! I've been accepted into both the full-time programs for Rutgers and Fordham and I don't know which to choose. I know Rutgers is ranked higher, but I feel like Fordham might have a better network (I live in NYC right now, but I am from NJ). Any experience or options would be appreciated!

Rutgers is the better school for most students. Perhaps in the specific areas where Fordham is stronger it has an edge. Rutgers certainly has a strong network in NYC.

[Edited by Duncan on Feb 02, 2019]

Rutgers is the better school for most students. Perhaps in the specific areas where Fordham is stronger it has an edge. Rutgers certainly had a strong network in NYC.

I appreciate that insight. I also went to RU as an undergrad. Does that change your opinion at all?

It does not change my mind too much. Use LinkedIn to see where the MBA network connections are better in your target segments. Other things being equal, a better cohort will be more valuable.

Yes, in general Rutgers will be the stronger school. They're certainly strong for careers in supply chain and health care. Maybe for finance, accounting, etc. Fordham would have an edge but check out the alumni network - if those fields are your goals there are better schools in NYC.

Yes, in general Rutgers will be the stronger school. They're certainly strong for careers in supply chain and health care. Maybe for finance, accounting, etc. Fordham would have an edge but check out the alumni network - if those fields are your goals there are better schools in NYC.

Is this still true even after Rutgers has now been dropped from the Financial Times MBA Ranking and after Fordham is now in the ranking?

I think so, yes. Last year Rutgers' career service was well in the top half, and placement was in the high 80s. This year Fordham's careers service ranks 100th, and placement is around 77%. Schools don't change materially that much, and it's likely that both schools will be bouncing in and out of the bottom of rankings as exchange rates and salary details make the ranking volatile at the bottom. But for finding work in most industries, Rutgers seems much better.

That's a bit of a relief, thanks! I have an admit from Rutgers and was planning on starting in the fall, but I was a bit surprised to see that the school was not in the ranking this year. Fordham was my backup school but my goals I think align better with Rutgers (want to transition into supply chain, most likely consumer products industry.)