USC Marshall MBA
- Goalisb
- Oct 14
- 14 min read
Join us as we explore the USC Marshall School of Business located in Los Angeles, renowned for its comprehensive two-year, full-time program, boasting an extensive alumni network of over 93,000.
Table of Contents
USC Marshall Two Year MBA Program
Program Highlights
Location: Los Angeles
Duration: Two years
Format: Full-time
Alumni: Over 93,000
First Year Core Courses: Spanning over 5 terms
Acceptance Rate: 23%
Ready to take the next step toward your MBA dream? Connect with GOALisB’s expert consultants for personalized MBA admission guidance, essay strategy, and interview preparation.
USC Marshall MBA Application Deadlines
When applying to an MBA program, it's essential to be aware of the application deadlines. USC Marshall offers several application rounds. Here are the deadlines for the 2023-2024 academic year:
USC Marshall MBA Application Deadline for the 2025 intake
Round | Deadline |
Round 1 | October 1, 2024 |
Round 2 | January 10, 2025 |
Round 3 | April 15, 2025 |
USC Marshall MBA Admission Requirements
To ensure your enrollment in the USC Marshall MBA program, it is essential to satisfy particular admission criteria. Let's delve into the specific prerequisites:
Admission Requirements
Online Application
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Academic Transcripts
GMAT or GRE Scores
Two MBA Essays
Professional Resume
TOEFL/IELTS (If Applicable)
No Application Fee
No Letter of Recommendation Required
Test Scores Reporting Code
GMAT: 389-9C-23
GRE: 4852
TOEFL: 4852
Unsure how to craft a standout USC Marshall MBA application? GOALisB’s MBA experts can help you refine your essays, align your goals, and build a powerful story for success. Start your one-on-one consultation now!
USC Marshall MBA Ranking
The USC Marshall MBA program boasts a solid reputation. Here's a glimpse of its rankings:
MBA Program Rankings (2023 - FT MBA Ranking 2023: 21
Comparison of FT 2022 vs FT 2023 ranking achieved by USC Marshall:
The FT (Financial Times) MBA ranking for the University of Southern California (USC) Marshall School of Business saw some notable changes between 2022 and 2023. Let's analyze the key differences:
Overall Ranking: In 2022, USC Marshall was ranked 25th globally in the FT MBA ranking. However, in 2023, it made significant progress by securing the 21st position. This represents a positive trend and indicates an improvement in the overall MBA program quality.
Salary: One of the most significant improvements is in terms of salary. The average salary today for USC Marshall MBA graduates in 2023 is $181,546, which is a considerable increase from $177,903 in 2022. This demonstrates the program's effectiveness in delivering a strong return on investment for its students.
Career Progress Rank: In 2023, USC Marshall had a career progress rank of 65, whereas in 2022, it had a rank of 59. This indicates that while the overall ranking improved, there might be some areas related to career progress where it could further enhance the performance.
Diversity and Inclusion: USC Marshall made positive strides in terms of gender diversity. The representation of women among faculty increased from 33% in 2022 to 34% in 2023. Similarly, female student enrollment rose from 36% in 2022 to 46% in 2023. These positive changes highlight the school's dedication to advancing gender diversity within its academic community.
Internationalization: USC Marshall also saw an increase in international student enrollment, rising from 45% in 2022 to 49% in 2023. This suggests that the school is becoming even more attractive to students from around the world.
ESG and Net Zero Teaching Rank: In terms of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) education, the school maintained a strong position in both years with a rank of 60 in 2023 and 76 in 2022. This shows a consistent commitment to sustainability and ethics in business education.
Alumni Network: USC Marshall's alumni network rank improved from 58 in 2022 to 11 in 2023. A robust alumni network can be highly beneficial for current students and recent graduates in terms of networking and career opportunities.
Value for Money: While the school maintained a high rank for value for money (85 in 2023 and 83 in 2022), it's important to note that the increase in salary and career progress might contribute to an even better perception of value for money in the coming years.
Overall, the USC Marshall MBA program has made significant advancements in key areas such as salary, gender diversity, internationalization, and alumni network strength. These improvements suggest that the program is continuously evolving to offer students a more comprehensive and rewarding educational experience. While there is always room for further development, the positive trends are encouraging for prospective MBA candidates considering USC Marshall MBA.
USC Marshall MBA Class Profile
The USC Marshall MBA program values diversity and brings together a unique group of individuals. Here's the class profile for the Class of 2024:
Class of 2024 Profile
Demographics
Class Size: 190 Students
Students of Color: 20%
International: 41%
Female: 35%
LGBTQ+ (Self-Identified): 9%
U.S. Military (of Domestic Pool): 12%
Academic Scores
Average GMAT: 722
Middle 80% GMAT Range: 700 – 770
Average GRE: 323 (160V | 163Q)
Middle 80% GRE Range: 308 – 333
Average GPA: 3.5
Middle 80% GPA Range: 3.09 - 3.87
Average Work Experience: 5.5 years
Average Age: 29 Years
Pre-MBA Industries
Financial Services: 19%
Technology: 14%
Healthcare: 13%
Consulting: 10%
Manufacturing: 6%
Consulting: 6%
Government/Military: 5%
Media/Entertainment: 4%
Consumer Package Goods: 4%
Non-Profit: 4%
Retail: 3%
Hospitality: 2%
Transportation & Logistics: 1%
Other: 7%
Undergraduate Majors
Business/Commerce: 26%
Engineering/Computer Science: 25%
Economics: 14%
Sciences: 12%
Social Sciences: 10%
Humanities: 6%
Law: 2%
Other: 3%
USC Marshall MBA Fees
Pursuing an MBA comes with costs and financial considerations. Let's delve into the tuition fees and scholarship opportunities at USC Marshall:
First Year Total Cost for MBA Program: $109,261
Second Year Total Cost for MBA Program: $95,139
USC Marshall One Year MBA
The USC Marshall IBEAR (International Business Education and Research) program is a unique, accelerated one-year MBA designed for mid-career professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of international business and advance or pivot their careers. Here’s a comprehensive analysis of its structure, key benefits, and target audience:
Program Overview
The IBEAR MBA is a full-time, intensive program completed in 12 months, making it ideal for professionals who want an expedited MBA experience. It requires participants to complete 56 credits across six 8-week terms, encompassing core courses, electives, and a capstone project. With a typical class of about 55 participants from over a dozen countries, the program emphasizes diversity and global networking, bringing together professionals with significant experience.
Curriculum Highlights
Core and Elective Courses: The curriculum is designed to balance core management skills with flexible electives. Participants complete 17 credits of required courses, 21 credits of core functional courses (some waivable through challenge exams), and 18 credits of electives. This mix enables students to tailor their studies according to their career goals, whether in functional business areas or industry-specific topics.
STEM Designation: For international students, the STEM certification allows for a potential OPT extension, granting an additional 24 months to work in the U.S. post-graduation. This designation enhances employability by aligning with the growing demand for quantitative and analytical skills in business.
Experiential Learning and Capstone Project
A defining feature of the IBEAR MBA is the International Business Consulting Project (IBCP). This four-month capstone requires teams to work with real clients—ranging from Fortune 1000 companies to startups—on key business issues such as market entry, growth strategies, and supply chain management. The project offers hands-on experience, requiring rigorous analysis and client interaction, and is guided by faculty with global consulting expertise.
In addition, the program includes:
International and Domestic Experiential Learning Programs: These modules provide exposure to business practices and leaders both within the U.S. and internationally, enriching students’ understanding of diverse markets and business strategies.
Executive Leadership & Professional Development Workshops: These workshops, often held on- and off-campus, include retreats and are tailored to boost leadership skills and complement academic learning.
Student Profile and Admissions
The program targets mid-career professionals, with participants typically around 36 years old and possessing an average of 12 years of experience. Admission criteria include a minimum of six years of full-time work experience, with selection factors like academic history, test scores, recommendation letters, and essays. The IBEAR class profile is diverse, and around one-third of participants are sponsored by their employers or family businesses.
Networking and Career Services
IBEAR offers an extensive global alumni network, with over 2,100 alumni worldwide who actively support current students through mentorship, recruitment, and networking events. The program’s career services team provides personalized coaching, especially beneficial for mid-career professionals seeking career advancement or transitions. Career support includes industry-focused guidance, resume reviews, and networking opportunities.
USC Marshall iBear Scholarships
The IBEAR MBA offers specific scholarships, like the TAMBA and SAMBA scholarships for Indonesian candidates, which cover full tuition and living expenses. Additional scholarship opportunities are available for candidates demonstrating exceptional potential, especially during early admissions rounds.
The USC Marshall IBEAR MBA program is ideal for mid-career professionals seeking a rapid, globally-focused MBA that combines intense academic rigor with hands-on consulting experience. With its strong emphasis on flexibility, real-world application, and international exposure, the IBEAR MBA equips professionals with both strategic insight and practical skills. This program is particularly suitable for candidates looking to shift to international roles or advance their careers in global business settings.
Complete MBA Resource Guide: Explore Global Opportunities
Choosing an MBA program can be complex, especially with numerous international options. This guide provides you with categorized resources for popular MBA destinations and essential insights to aid in your application journey.
General MBA Admissions Resources
Kickstart your research with these foundational resources on MBA admissions abroad:
MBA Programs in Australia
Australia’s MBA programs are internationally renowned, offering students a rich learning environment and post-study work opportunities:
MBA Programs in Canada
Canada is a leading choice for international students due to its quality education, safe environment, and supportive post-graduation work policies. Explore these top Canadian MBA programs:
For an overview and general insights:
MBA Programs in Europe
European MBA programs provide a culturally immersive and globally connected learning environment. Here’s a selection of top programs across the region:
Additional insights for applicants:
MBA Programs in Germany
Germany’s MBA programs appeal to those interested in tech, engineering, and manufacturing. Key resources for Germany:
MBA Programs in Singapore
Singapore is a strategic choice for MBAs focusing on Asia-Pacific business opportunities. Find out more here:
Compare regions:
MBA Programs in the United States
The U.S. offers world-class MBA programs, known for their strong alumni networks and career support. Here’s a breakdown of popular U.S. programs:
Explore further with specific U.S. schools:
Essential MBA Application Resources
Beyond selecting a program, these resources can help you enhance your application:
For further specialized insights:
FAQs
Is USC Marshall a good MBA?
The Marshall School of Business at USC has earned a solid reputation, consistently receiving positive evaluations for its MBA program from various organizations. It secured the 22nd spot in the 2021 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Business Schools rankings and achieved a global ranking of 39 in The Financial Times' 2020 assessment. Nevertheless, when determining the suitability of a particular MBA program, individuals should ultimately consider their unique personal and professional objectives. One year MBA programs in US are also an option that can be considered by applicants.
What is USC Marshall MBA known for?
USC Marshall School of Business is renowned for nurturing leadership skills and placing a unique focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.
The university hosts a specialized Center for Entrepreneurship, providing valuable support and resources to students and graduates pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.
USC Marshall's MBA program is distinguished for its comprehensive real estate and finance curricula.
The program emphasizes international business and boasts a vast network of successful alumni. The institution is also celebrated for its diverse student body and its strategic location in Los Angeles, granting students unmatched access to a multitude of businesses and industries.
3. Is it hard to get into USC MBA?
As USC Marshall is a prestigious institution with limited MBA program slots, gaining admission can be quite challenging. Typically, the program maintains a strict average acceptance rate which makes it hard to get into the class of 199. Recently the USC Marshall MBA program received 3166 applications and 23% were accepted to the program. This makes it a tough program to enter.
To enhance their prospects of acceptance, applicants should possess a strong academic track record, relevant professional experience, and a well-crafted application that effectively highlights their unique qualities and accomplishments. Additionally, securing a high GMAT or GRE score and securing robust letters of recommendation can further bolster the likelihood of admission.
Does USC Marshall require GMAT?
Yes, USC Marshall School of Business mandates that applicants complete the GMAT or GRE as a component of the application procedure. These test scores serve as one of the metrics for assessing an applicant's credentials and their capacity for thriving in the MBA program. It's noteworthy to highlight that for the Fall 2024 enrollment period, USC Marshall introduced GMAT/GRE waivers for specific candidates who meet particular criteria or possess qualifying qualifications and experiences.
However for the 2024 intake there are currently GMAT or GRE test waivers being offered by USC Marshall for the two year full time MBA program. There are other programs which do offer the GMAT waiver for the 2024 MBA intake.
Is a Marshall MBA worth it?
Yes, the USC Marshall MBA is worth it if you want strong West Coast career opportunities, especially in consulting, tech, and entertainment, with average post-MBA salaries of $144,442.
1. Reputation & Ranking:
USC Marshall is a top-25 U.S. business school with a strong West Coast brand.
Particularly recognized for entrepreneurship, finance, and supply chain management.
2. Career Outcomes:
Average salary (Class of 2024): $144,442 base, plus signing bonuse of $32,524.
Strong placement in consulting (McKinsey, Bain, Deloitte), tech (Amazon, Google, Microsoft), and entertainment/media (Warner Bros, Disney, Netflix).
Extensive alumni network in California and across Asia-Pacific.
3. ROI & Costs:
Tuition- $152,523 for the full program.
ROI is strong for students targeting consulting, finance, or tech, especially on the West Coast.
Lower ROI if targeting international roles compared to M7 schools (Harvard, Wharton, Stanford).
4. Who Benefits Most:
Professionals aiming for consulting, tech, or entrepreneurship.
Those who want to build a career in Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, or Asia-Pacific markets.
Key Insight:
The Marshall MBA is highly valuable for West Coast careers, but if your goal is global recognition at the highest level, an M7 MBA may carry more weight.
What is the MBA program at USC Marshall?
The USC Marshall MBA is a full-time, 2-year program in Los Angeles that emphasizes leadership, global business, and experiential learning, with strong career pathways in consulting, finance, tech, and entertainment.
1. Program Structure:
Duration: 2 years (full-time).
Core Curriculum: Accounting, finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and leadership.
Specializations (Electives): Consulting, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, global supply chain, and entertainment business.
Experiential Learning: PRIME (Pacific Rim International Management Education) global consulting project, internships, case competitions, and startup labs.
2. Key Features:
Located in Los Angeles, offering strong connections to tech, media, entertainment, and international trade.
Global Focus: Mandatory international business consulting project.
Entrepreneurship Hub: Ties with USC’s Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
Collaborative Culture: Small class sizes and strong alumni engagement.
3. Career Outcomes:
Average salary (Class of 2024)- $144,442.
Top recruiters: McKinsey, Deloitte, Bain, Amazon, Google, Disney, Warner Bros, Microsoft.
Strong placements in consulting, technology, and entertainment/media.
4. Additional MBA Options at USC Marshall:
Full-Time MBA (2 years).
Part-Time MBA (MBA.PM).
Executive MBA (EMBA).
Online MBA (OMBA).
IBEAR MBA (1-year, mid-career international focus).
Thus, USC Marshall MBA combines West Coast career opportunities, global exposure, and entrepreneurial focus, making it especially valuable for those pursuing careers in consulting, tech, or media/entertainment industries.
What is the average salary for a USC Marshall MBA?
The average base salary for USC Marshall Full-Time MBA graduates (Class of 2024) is US$144,442, with an average signing bonus of US$32,524.
Key Points:
Industry differences:
Consulting grads from Marshall average about US$167,863 in base salary.
Technology sector grads average around US$142,489 base.
Employment rates: ~80% of the class had full-time employment within 90 days of graduation.
Geography plays a role: Many Marshall grads stay in the Western U.S., where salaries tend to be somewhat aligned with the average, though variations exist based on cost of living.
Is Marshall MBA STEM?
Yes- the USC Marshall Full-Time MBA program is STEM-designated, meaning it qualifies for the OPT-STEM extension for eligible international students.
Here’s what this means and some nuances:
Marshall offers a STEM designation on its Full-Time MBA program.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics. A STEM-designated degree often has a curriculum that includes more quantitative, analytical, data, or technical coursework. Marshall’s MBA includes a Management Science specialization that is explicitly STEM-certified.
For international students in the U.S., STEM-designated programs allow for an OPT extension (i.e. after graduation, they can work up to 24 months (or more under some conditions) beyond the standard Optional Practical Training period).
What is USC Marshall ranked in MBA?
USC Marshall MBA / Related Rankings
Ranking / Program | Rank / Position | |
US News- Best Business Schools (Full-Time MBA) | 24 (tie) out of 133 | |
US News- Part-Time MBA | ||
FT (Financial Times) Online MBA | ||
U.S. News- Online MBA | ||
US News- Executive MBA Global |
How prestigious is Marshall University?
Marshall University (West Virginia) is a respected regional public university known for programs in health professions, business, and education, but it is not considered as prestigious as Ivy League or top national research universities; its prestige is mainly regional.
It’s important to clarify between Marshall University (Huntington, West Virginia) and the USC Marshall School of Business (University of Southern California), since they are very different institutions.
Marshall University (WV) – Prestige Profile
Classification: Public research university, mid-tier, serving mainly the Appalachian region.
Rankings:
U.S. News National Universities 2026: 318.
Best Public Schools: Mid-lower tier.
Strengths:
Health sciences (nursing, pharmacy, medicine).
Education and regional business programs.
Reputation: More regional than global, offering strong value for in-state students, but not considered elite.
USC Marshall School of Business (Los Angeles) – Prestige Profile
Different Institution: Part of the University of Southern California (USC), often mistaken due to the “Marshall” name.
Prestige: Globally ranked in the Top 20 U.S. MBA programs and well-regarded in business education.
Thus,
Marshall University (WV): Respectable regional university, but not elite or globally prestigious.
USC Marshall School of Business: Highly prestigious, globally ranked in top MBA programs.
How to get into USC Marshall MBA?
To get into USC Marshall MBA, you need a competitive GMAT/GRE score (average GMAT ~732), 2 years of work experience, strong essays, and international students must also show English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
USC Marshall’s Full-Time MBA is competitive, but attainable with the right profile.
Key Admission Requirements
Academic Record:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
No minimum GPA, but admitted students often have 3.5 average GPA.
Test Scores:
GMAT or GRE required (average GMAT for Class of 2026- 722).
Waivers may be available for experienced professionals.
Work Experience:
Minimum 2 years professional experience.
Diverse backgrounds welcome (consulting, finance, tech, healthcare, startups).
Application Materials:
Online application + fee.
Essays (career goals, leadership, fit with Marshall).
1–2 recommendations from supervisors or professional contacts.
Resume showcasing leadership, impact, and progression.
For International Students:
TOEFL/IELTS required (unless undergrad in English).
F-1 visa eligibility supported by the STEM MBA designation.
USC Marshall MBA Class Profile (2025)
Acceptance Rate- 23%
Class Size- 210 students
Avg. GMAT- 722 | Avg. GRE (Q+V)- 324
Avg. Work Experience: 5.5 years
International Students- 35%
Tips to Increase Chances
Show clear career goals (consulting, tech, finance, entrepreneurship).
Highlight leadership, teamwork, and community involvement.
Network with USC alumni and attend admission events.
Is USC Marshall competitive?
Yes, USC Marshall is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 23%, an average GMAT of 722, and applicants typically having minimum 2 years of work experience; while not as selective as Harvard or Stanford, it is still among the top 20 U.S. MBA programs.
The USC Marshall School of Business MBA is considered highly competitive, especially for applicants targeting careers in consulting, finance, and technology.
Admissions Competitiveness
Acceptance Rate- 23% (moderately selective compared to HBS/Stanford at <10%).
GMAT/GRE Scores- Average GMAT is 722, GRE average- 324 (Q+V).
Work Experience: Admitted students average 5.5 years of professional experience.
GPA Range: Typical admitted GPA is between 3.5.
Factors That Make It Competitive
Location Advantage:
Situated in Los Angeles, USC Marshall is attractive for careers in tech, media, consulting, and global trade.
STEM MBA Designation:
Makes it especially appealing to international applicants seeking OPT extensions.
Strong Career Outcomes:
Class of 2024 average base salary: $144,442 + $32K signing bonus.
Top recruiters: McKinsey, Deloitte, Google, Amazon, EY, PwC.
Finally, yes-
USC Marshall is competitive, but attainable with strong academics, clear career goals, and leadership experience.
It is more selective than many mid-tier programs, but slightly less intense than ultra-elite MBAs like Harvard, Wharton, or Stanford.
Does the USC Marshall MBA require LOR?
No, LOR is not required for USC Marshall MBA admission.
Does a USC MBA require an interview?
USC MBA requires online video assessment during the application submission.
Are you ready to unlock your path to a successful MBA journey? GOALisB is here to guide you every step of the way. From personalized MBA admission consulting to expertly crafted MBA essays and interview preparation, we've got you covered.
Don't miss this opportunity to shape your future and gain admission to the MBA program of your dreams. Reach out to us today to start your journey toward a brighter and more promising career. Your future begins with GOALisB – where your ambitions meet our expertise. Get started now!