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Immersive, Innovative, and Impactful: Discover Why the Johnson School Might Be Right for You

An enduring legacy of innovation. An expansive alumni network. An enriching academic experience. These are just a few reasons the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management might appeal to you.

As you research and compare graduate programs, you have a lot to consider. You might be thinking, “Why Cornell?” MBA, Executive MBA, Master of Professional Studies, and other graduate-level business degree options abound, after all.

Earning a degree from one of the most respected, highly ranked, and recognized institutions in the nation will set you apart. But it’s about more than an Ivy League education; it’s also about the professional connections you’ll forge, the personal growth you’ll experience, and the positive impact you’ll make in your field—even before you graduate.

Cornell Connections: Grow Your Network, Expand Your Opportunities

On and off campus, before and after graduation, you’ll benefit from the Johnson School’s extensive outreach and far-ranging influence. Here are just a few of the many ways Cornell connects you to others—and to opportunity.

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Expansive Big Red Alumni Network

Wherever you live, work, travel, or do business, you’re likely to cross paths with a fellow Cornellian. After graduation, not only will you join the Johnson School’s vibrant alumni community, but you will also become part of Cornell’s Big Red Network—a globe-spanning group of more than 150,000. But these connections begin long before you graduate; Johnson School alumni serve as career mentors, guest speakers, and internship supervisors; they even help shape and grow our curriculum.

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Engaged Employers & Industry Partners

Strong ties to the business community, lasting relationships with leaders in nearly every sector, and a physical location in one of the world’s largest economic centers means you have access to a level of real-world learning experiences unique to the Johnson School, from coveted summer internships with multinational firms to pitch competitions judged by successful entrepreneurs. These same relationships fuel our Career Management team’s recruiting activity and career placement success.

Two students sit at a table with laptops open in front of them.

Enriching Campus Collaborations

Business is interdisciplinary—and the Johnson School is one high-ranking school among many at Cornell University. You’ll have a chance to learn alongside classmates and faculty members from across campus in many ways, including electives, studio courses, and research projects. Our unique dual-degree programs—in fields like healthcare, law, and engineering—also highlight the Johnson School’s collaborative approach to education, innovation, and career advancement.

Industry Advantages: Build Your Expertise, Boost Your Career

Our renowned faculty has a wide range of professional experience and research interests—and the Johnson School is especially known for consulting, entrepreneurship, investment banking/asset management, and technology. No matter which degree program you choose, you’ll benefit from this deep industry expertise.

Consulting

About 30 percent of Johnson School graduates pursue careers in consulting—and they leave well-prepared for it. Project-based consulting courses, a Strategy & Consulting Immersion, and an array of other valuable experiences build the essential analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills needed to help companies grow or transform.

Entrepreneurship

Cornell has always been known for innovation, and the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within the Johnson School is a testament to that enduring creative spirit. From pitch competitions and design studios to commercialization partnerships with other programs, ideas turn into action.

Investment Banking

Investment bankers are trusted advisors to companies of all sizes. Through courses and practical experiences, you’ll develop knowledge in capital markets and modern financial methods. With close ties to Wall Street, you’ll have access to high-caliber internship placements—and post-graduation employment.

Technology

While some graduate business programs might offer a tech-related class here or there, the Johnson School embeds technology throughout the academic experience. We also offer several STEM-designated degrees, including the one-year Johnson Cornell Tech MBA. As a pioneer in distance learning, we also embrace educational technology.

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The Student Experience: Learn and Thrive in the Johnson School Community

Whether you’re studying on campus in a residential graduate program, taking classes in New York City at Cornell Tech, or learning from afar through a hybrid program, you’ll be part of a vibrant learning community. In fact, the Johnson School was ranked No. 1 for Best Campus Environment in the Princeton Review’s 2023 B-School rankings.

At the Johnson School, students have many ways to connect with classmates, professors, and the broader Cornell community, such as:

Sage Socials (recurring networking events in our main academic building)
Coffee in the Sage Hall atrium (daily casual meetups)
Webinars and networking events
Dozens of student clubs and organizations
Campus-wide events such as Homecoming

Ithaca is a bustling college town, and the greater Finger Lakes region has much to see and do.

Our People: Hear from Johnson School Alumni and Students

Unforgettable lectures. Remarkable professors. Immersive learning experiences. Access to outdoor adventure. A strong sense of community. These are just a few of the many things Johnson School alumni and students value about their academic experience.