So, you have all decided to pursue an MBA programme and are searching for the best MBA College. Choosing the top business school may seem a complicated task for most students. Nevertheless, there is one parameter that acts as a lifeline - ranking. Numerous organizations and publications conduct comprehensive studies and surveys to rank colleges offering many MBA programmes. Unfortunately, no two rankings published in the same year matches each other. So, there is no perfect measurement that can assist you determine the best business school for enrollment.
Standardization In Rankings
One of the most usual questions asked by MBA candidates is whether there is a standardization in the ranking criteria for B-schools. The answer is "no". While one publication ranks colleges based on customer satisfaction the other focuses on ROI. Similarly, different publications have their own way to come up with ranks. Some solely focus on company recruiters hiring students.
Ranking And Reputation
It is fairly common among students to relate rankings and reputation. The number game measures status to a great extent and almost all reviews consider multiple factors, though their prime focus differs. A few factors that play a vital role in the numbers game are average salary of alumni, placement success, achievement of objectives and goals and profession progress. Though, all of them do say about the excellence of the B-school, yet assuming it blindly is not a good idea.
Are Rankings Helpful?
The question is quite dicey. According to a former faculty of a Top MBA college in Greater Noida, UP, students shouldn't join a college solely on the source of rankings published in various media. Yes, it is one big factor among several others to consider, but it should not be the only one. If one carefully studies and analyses the algorithms and methodologies used, more details about a college can be unearthed. It might help one know the college culture and its educational environment. It also support one to know whether the environment suites one's character or not.
Considerations Beyond The Numbers
MBA is an entrance to a bright future ahead and therefore there is more to consider beyond the numbers. One must look for numerous things such as:
Course Cost
Location of the institute
Relationship with potential employers
In a competitive world with so several B-schools, rankings have become a shortcut to measure the efficiency of a management institute/colleges. It is virtually not possible for a student to pick the best college and the numbers just narrow down the institutes offering MBA courses.
