Official PostKellogg MBA Complete Information: 2023-2024 In this post, you will find all the relevant information for the
Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. The post provides information on four key aspects of Kellogg: its academics, culture and student clubs, scholarships, and career report.
Section I: Stats
Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management |
Attribute | Data |
US News Ranking | 2 |
Applicants | 4187 |
Accepted | 1316 |
Enrolled | 503 |
Acceptance | 31% |
Yield Rate | 38% |
GPA | 3.7 |
Average WE | 62 |
% GMAT | 76% |
Average GMAT | 729 |
Median GMAT | 730 |
GMAT Domestic | NA |
GMAT International | NA |
% GRE | NA |
Average GRE Q | 163 |
Average GRE V | 162 |
Employed at Graduation | 87% |
Section II: Rankings
US News Ranking Data | Year | Ranking |
2024 | 2 |
2023 | 3 |
2022 | 4 |
2021 | 3 |
2020 | 6 |
Section III: IntroductionAs per Kellogg's official website, Kellogg's purpose is:
"To educate, equip, and inspire leaders who build strong organizations and wisely leverage the power of markets to create lasting value."
In evaluating applications, Kellogg recognizes that while test scores and work experience hold significance, the holistic assessment extends beyond these components alone. The admissions process considers a comprehensive range of factors, including an applicant's values, objectives, and the transformative influence they have exerted within their organization.
Kellogg places a premium on individuals who approach business challenges with a balanced combination of hard and soft skills. They value candidates who demonstrate a proactive inclination to adapt to the dynamic business landscape with open curiosity and innovation. Collaborative strength, rooted in empathy, is highly regarded as a means to enhance work dynamics, perspectives, and overall outcomes. Additionally, Kellogg seeks individuals who appreciate and actively contribute to the power of diversity within their teams and networks.
In their evaluation, Kellogg assesses the following criteria:
- - Academic readiness
- - Work experience
- - Professional goals
- - Leadership abilities
- - Impact achieved
- - Interpersonal skills
This approach reflects Kellogg's commitment to a thorough and nuanced consideration of each candidate's profile beyond traditional metrics, emphasizing the importance of values, adaptability, collaboration, and diversity in shaping the Kellogg community.
Section IV: AcademicsKellogg's MBA program encompasses a total class size ranging between 450 and 500 students, with an additional cohort of approximately 200 to 250 1Y (One-Year) students. The 2Y (Two-Year) MBA students are further organized into distinct sections, namely Cash Cows, Moose, Jive Turkeys, Bucketheads, Highlanders, Bullfrogs, Big Dogs, and Poets. Each of these sections comprises approximately 60 to 70 individuals, contributing to the diverse and dynamic academic environment at Kellogg.
The Kellogg curriculum is meticulously crafted to mold individuals into well-rounded leaders, poised to spearhead growth, foster team engagement, and address intricate challenges within their organizations. It enhances comprehension of the integral role each organizational facet plays in achieving overall success, fostering an approach that encourages innovative problem-solving, insightful questioning, and confident leadership.
Tailored to accommodate varying paces, whether Traditional or Accelerated, the curriculum entails the completion of requisite core courses followed by a dive into advanced electives to deepen knowledge in specific areas.
Core Courses:Kellogg's core courses are strategically designed to furnish students with fundamental business expertise, analytical prowess, and social acumen necessary for success in today's dynamic business landscape. Irrespective of pace, all students in the Evening & Weekend MBA Program undertake two foundational courses:
- 1. Leadership in Organizations (MORS 430)
- 2. Business Strategy (STRT 431)
The core requirements are rounded out with the following eight courses, essential for advanced study at Kellogg and comprehensive understanding across business functions:
- - Finance I (FINC 430)
- - Marketing Management (MKTG 430)
- - Microeconomic Analysis (MECN 430)
- - Business Analytics I (DECS 430-5) — 0.5 credit
- - Business Analytics II (DECS 431)
- - Operations Management (OPNS 430)
- - Financial Accounting (ACCT 430)
- - Leadership and Crisis Management (PACT-440-5, formerly known as KPPI-440-5) — 0.5 credit
For those opting for the Accelerated Option, prior coursework may replace three to four core classes, with eligibility determined before admission. Individual core classes may also be waived post-admission, with each department having a specific waiver procedure for its core offerings.
Elective Courses:Kellogg's elective courses offer an opportunity to cultivate higher-level knowledge and skills, spanning a broad spectrum and providing an in-depth focus on various topics and industries. These courses enable students to align their education with personal and professional goals, be it gaining industry expertise, leveraging experiential learning opportunities, addressing skill gaps, or exploring new business domains.
While an Evening & Weekend MBA student is not obligated to select a major, many opt for a major or pathway to structure their coursework according to their preferences.
Kellogg School of Management prioritizes providing students with the flexibility to enhance their academic experience by offering core course waivers, allowing them to delve into advanced electives. The school actively encourages students with relevant academic backgrounds or work experience to explore the option of waiving eligible core courses.
There are two types of waivers available. A Partial Waiver permits students to substitute an approved upper-level course to fulfill a core course requirement, while a Full Waiver exempts students from the core course requirement entirely, with no additional courses needed to meet that requirement. It's important to note that core course waivers do not diminish the minimum number of quarters or credits required for graduation.
In the Full-Time program, there are three avenues to obtain a waiver: through the admissions process (applicable to the 1Y Program only), by application, and/or by exam. Decisions regarding waivers are made by the Admissions office and Kellogg faculty, holding the final authority.
To obtain a waiver by application, individuals meeting minimum academic requirements, including relevant coursework at an accredited institution, may apply for specific core courses. If a waiver is granted through the application process, there is no need to attempt a waiver exam.
For those who haven't completed relevant academic coursework or were not awarded a waiver by application, a waiver exam is an option, if offered for the specific course. Anyone, irrespective of background or whether a waiver application was submitted, can attempt waiver exams. It's important to note that students are allowed only one attempt at a given waiver exam.
The table below outlines the types of waivers available for each core course, indicating whether they are obtainable by application, exam, or both. Additionally, it specifies courses for which waivers are not available.
Course Name | Available By Application | Available By Exam |
---|
ACCT-430 Accounting | Partial and Full | Partial or Full (depending upon exam performance) |
DECS-430-5 Business Analytics I | No | Full (but still must take or waive DECS-431) |
DECS-431 Business Analytics II | No | Full (but still must take or waive DECS-430-5) |
FINC-430 Finance I | No | Partial - must pass both Parts 1 and 2. Must pass online Finance Waiver Exam Part 1 to take in-person waiver exam Part 2* |
MKTG-430 Marketing Management | Partial | No |
MECN-430 Microeconomic Analysis | Partial | Full |
MORS-430 Leadership in Organizations | No | No |
OPNS-430 Operations Management | No | Partial or Full (depending upon exam performance) |
STRT-431 Business Strategy | No | No |
It's crucial to be aware that while awarded waivers do not have to be exercised, students have the option to enroll in the core class even if a waiver is granted. However, students will not have another opportunity to submit a waiver application or sit for a waiver exam after the posted deadlines/dates. This policy applies to all core courses, regardless of the quarter or year in which the student plans to complete them at Kellogg.
The following table provides general dates for waiver applications and exams. For more specific information on eligible core classes and associated deadlines, please refer to the relevant program’s admitted student website or intranet.
| 1Y* | 2Y | MMM |
Waiver Applications | June | August | June |
Waiver Exams | June | August, October | June, August, October |
Waivers with Admissions Application | Prior to Enrollment | n/a | n/a |
*1Y students may only attempt to waive Accounting and Finance through the waiver application/exam process; all other waivers must be granted prior to enrollment via the Admission Application.
Kellogg offers students the opportunity to build their expertise through a unique approach to majors, providing both flexibility and guidance. This approach allows individuals to tailor their intellectual experience according to their specific educational and career objectives.
Students at Kellogg can choose from a selection of eight majors, or opt not to pursue a specific major. The available majors encompass a broad spectrum, including Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management Science, Managing Organizations, Marketing, Operations, and Strategy.
Beyond majors, Kellogg introduces "pathways" for students keen on developing expertise in emerging areas and evolving industries. Pathways are cohesive, cross-functional sequences of courses strategically designed to address specific skill sets or industries experiencing active demand from students and recruiters alike. The flexibility extends to the pursuit of multiple pathways, enabling students to delve as deeply as desired into each one. Importantly, pathway participation is not reflected on transcripts.
Kellogg's pathways cover a diverse range of areas, including AI and Analytics, Asset Management, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Energy & Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, Growth and Scaling, Healthcare at Kellogg, Real Estate, Social Impact, Technology Management, and Venture Capital and Private Equity. This comprehensive framework allows students to tailor their academic journey in alignment with their interests and career aspirations.
Kellogg Experiential Learning:Kellogg's experiential learning programs offer students a dynamic opportunity to engage with the challenges faced by business leaders on a daily basis. Through collaborative efforts with faculty members, fellow students, alumni, and corporate partners, individuals leverage strategic management concepts to address critical business issues in specialized projects, labs, and courses. With an extensive selection of over 1,000 experiential learning opportunities, students can choose the ones that resonate with their interests.
Kellogg's Experiential Learning courses encompass a variety of hands-on skill-building exercises, each offering different levels of project immersion. Students can tailor their experiential learning experience through the following formats:
- 1. Simulation/Exercise:
- - These courses extend beyond traditional lectures and case studies, incorporating simulations that replicate real market forces and conditions or utilize real-world exercises to foster growth through mentorship and self-discovery.
- - Examples include FINC 946 - Impact Investing and Sustainable Finance and HCAK 627 - Forging and Funding Healthcare Startups.
- 2. Self-Defined Project:
- - Students have the flexibility to work on self-defined projects, translating classroom learning into practical applications.
- - Courses such as ENTR 462 - New Venture Discovery and ENTR 464 - New Venture Development provide opportunities for students to pursue self-defined projects.
- 3. Client Project:
- - Collaborating with real companies, students tackle critical industry problems. These courses integrate client projects as part of a comprehensive curriculum that includes exams, lectures, and assignments.
- - Examples include ENTR 958 - Commercializing Innovations and HCAK 611 - Medical Technology Financing and Commercialization.
- 4. Lab Course:
- - Fully immersed in a client project, students may engage in on-site visits with clients and stakeholders. These courses are centered around the client project, offering exposure to various functions, industries, and companies.
- - Lab courses include FINC 456, FINC 457 & FINC 458 - Asset Management Practicum and MECN 615 - Analytical Consulting Lab.
Kellogg's experiential learning approach provides students with a rich and practical understanding of business concepts, preparing them for the complexities of the professional world.
Global opportunities at Kellogg:Kellogg, renowned for its commitment to fostering expansive thinking and global opportunities, provides individuals with a distinct edge to make a meaningful impact in a complex marketplace. The institution's array of offerings is meticulously crafted to propel individuals beyond their comfort zones, enabling them to adeptly navigate business challenges and interactions that span geographical boundaries and diverse cultures. Through a diverse range of courses, programs, and trips, Kellogg aims to spark insightful conversations and seamlessly integrate multiple perspectives, fostering an environment conducive to driving growth and innovation.
Within Kellogg's global framework, students are presented with the invaluable opportunity to tailor their international experiences based on individual goals. Throughout their academic journey at Kellogg, students can actively engage in various global experiences, thereby enriching their understanding of the global business landscape.
I. Global Initiatives in Management (GIM)More than 250 students annually choose to immerse themselves in international markets and explore specific topics or sectors through Kellogg's Global Initiatives in Management (GIM) Program. Participants undergo thorough analysis and preparation in the classroom and conduct extensive research on partner businesses before embarking on their global experiences. The program is carefully crafted to enable students to:
- 1. Develop a solid understanding of the macroeconomic trends, politics, history, and culture of a country or region outside the United States.
- 2. Engage firsthand with government officials and company representatives to grasp the future opportunities and challenges specific to a chosen country or region.
- 3. Examine a particular business topic or issue within the context of a specific country or region, considering challenges, opportunities, and strategies employed. They then apply this framework to other global contexts (for topics classes).
- 4. Collaborate with peers on projects that navigate international networks and propose solutions to business sector challenges.
GIM stands out for three key reasons: It welcomes participants from all Kellogg programs, including Full-Time, Evening & Weekend, and Executive MBA students, fostering collaboration and network expansion. It offers exclusive access to business leaders and organizations relevant to the study topics through the Kellogg network. Additionally, it allows students to pursue projects aligned with their individual interests through group project teams.
The program unfolds in two parts:
- In-Class Portion:
- - Timing: GIM is offered as a winter elective class for Full-Time, Evening & Weekend, and Executive MBA students.
- - Major Deliverable: Students work in small groups to develop a business plan, research question, industry analysis, or business case related to the chosen business topic across all countries studied. Past projects have delved into areas such as women entrepreneurship in emerging markets, social impact education, and combatting energy poverty in East Africa.
- In-Country Portion:
- - Timing: Over spring break, GIM classes spend up to ten days in the chosen country or region. Students arrange their international flights and meet with their classes at 9 a.m. on the designated start date of their itineraries. After the trip, students may continue traveling or return to Evanston in time for their first class of the spring quarter.
- - Schedule: In-country time focuses on business and culture, with evenings and weekends reserved for students' free time. The class engages in plenary meetings with government officials and industry leaders, while group project teams organize their own meetings and conduct firsthand research with key stakeholders. Previous plenary meetings have involved companies such as Boeing China, Off Grid Electric, Gustu, and Fab Lab Peru.
II. International Exchange For Full-Time StudentsKellogg boasts one of the most extensive exchange programs, where nearly 80 Full-Time MBA students annually choose to pursue studies abroad in diverse cities, spanning from Beijing to Buenos Aires. Through affiliations with
25 partner schools, the exchange program at Kellogg presents a distinctive opportunity for individuals to gain a profound understanding of business from diverse cultural perspectives. Participants have the chance to immerse themselves in a foreign culture outside the United States, fostering a rich and expansive network.
Those engaging in the exchange program at Kellogg find themselves uniquely positioned to explore global leadership prospects. Whether offering consulting services to a small, family-run business in South Africa, delving into the nuances of luxury retail marketing in France, or undertaking finance courses in bustling cities like London or Hong Kong, the student exchange experience is crafted to enhance Kellogg's global outlook. This immersive journey is designed to complement Kellogg's existing global exposure, adding substantial value to the overall educational experience.
III. Global LabIn Kellogg's Global Lab, students embark on a transformative 10-week experiential learning journey that serves as the pinnacle of their Global Opportunities experience. This unique course seamlessly integrates conventional classroom teachings with hands-on problem-solving, teamwork, and client service.
Within the Global Lab framework, a dedicated faculty member collaborates with clients to identify and present real-world business challenges, which teams of 4–6 students work together to address. Through direct interactions with clients, students gain valuable insights into the intricacies of organizational structures and market dynamics. Leveraging their diverse backgrounds, global exposure, and academic knowledge, they apply their skills to tackle consulting projects that span the entire quarter.
The impact of the work undertaken and the guidance received through Global Lab projects extends beyond the classroom, influencing major global companies across various industries. It serves as an unparalleled opportunity for students to make a lasting global impact during their tenure at Kellogg.
As participants in Global Lab, students immerse themselves in the culture and business landscape of the relevant country and region. They engage closely with the client organization, learning from management, conducting thorough research, interviews, and analysis to formulate comprehensive recommendations. This immersive approach not only enriches their understanding of global business but also equips them with practical skills that extend far beyond the academic realm.
IV. Kellogg Worldwide Exploration Student Trips (KWEST)Kellogg Worldwide Exploration Student Trips (KWEST) stands out as a premier Global Opportunity at Kellogg, renowned for being the largest and most sought-after program of its kind. This student-led initiative is meticulously organized by second-year students for the incoming participants of Kellogg’s Full-Time MBA Program. The planning and preparation for KWEST span nearly a year, showcasing the dedication and commitment of the student leaders.
Commencing in mid to late August, just a week before the pre-term orientation, KWEST invites students to embark on weeklong, non-academic trips to nearly 40 countries. During these journeys, facilitated by the guidance of second-year leaders, participants engage in a unique bonding experience. The initial phase involves sharing certain aspects of their backgrounds, fostering a more personal connection among the group. Subsequently, participants celebrate the revelation of each other's full identities, creating a platform for profound connections.
KWEST has proven to be a catalyst for meaningful relationships, with instances of lasting business partnerships emerging from these immersive trips. Graduating students consistently highlight KWEST as one of their most cherished Kellogg experiences.
The KWEST experience serves as a vital component of the Kellogg culture, recognized by both students and their partners as integral to the overall Kellogg journey. It seamlessly blends travel and adventure in some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, such as Argentina, Vietnam, South Africa, Peru, New Zealand, Portugal, and Iceland.
Remarkably, 85% of incoming students and their significant others (JVs) participate in a KWEST trip each year, emphasizing its widespread popularity and impact.
KWEST's global footprint extends to diverse destinations, with past trips venturing into Malaysia, Japan, Chile, Egypt, Turkey, Italy, Alaska, Hawaii, and Yosemite National Park. The program's continual evolution and its ability to foster cross-cultural connections make KWEST an indispensable and cherished facet of the Kellogg MBA experience.
V. Resources For International Students At Kellogg:Kellogg extends specialized support to international students, offering essential resources designed to empower them in navigating a new academic environment. The American Culture and English Program (ACE), a distinctive three-week-long acculturation initiative held during the summer, stands as a hallmark offering exclusive to Kellogg. This program, provided at no cost to students, is complemented by the year-round English Language Coaching (ELC) initiative. Together, these resources are instrumental in assisting international students in honing the skills and self-assurance required for success in the MBA classroom within the context of American culture. Annually, nearly 100 students avail themselves of either one or both of these opportunities.
The American Culture and English Program (ACE) is specially tailored for incoming MBAi and Two-Year MBA Program students with limited exposure to English as their primary language. This three-week program not only facilitates acclimatization to American culture but also serves as a valuable pre-term exposure, offering learning and practice in the norms of American culture and society, as well as the essential skills needed for thriving in the American MBA classroom.
Moreover, Kellogg's English Language Coach engages with students on a one-on-one basis to enhance their language skills and boost confidence, ensuring they make the most of their Kellogg experience and thrive in the U.S. These resources not only foster a comfortable environment for active participation within and outside the classroom but also delve into engaging topics such as American sports and popular culture, enriching students' social interactions and extracurricular engagements within the vibrant Kellogg community.
Section V: Culture and Student ClubsKellogg, renowned for its prestigious business programs, is not just a hub for academic brilliance but also a crucible of culture and values that shape the holistic development of its students. At the heart of Kellogg's identity is a commitment to fostering a community driven by excellence, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.
- 1. Collaborative Excellence: At Kellogg, the spirit of collaboration is woven into the fabric of its culture. The belief that diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions is evident in every facet of student life. The collaborative environment encourages open dialogue, where students engage in insightful discussions that transcend the boundaries of disciplines. This collaborative ethos not only prepares students for the dynamic business landscape but also nurtures a sense of community that extends beyond the classroom.
- 2. Diversity and Inclusion: Kellogg takes pride in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The student body represents a mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, creating an enriching environment that prepares future business leaders to navigate a globalized world. The emphasis on diversity is not just a checkbox but a cornerstone of Kellogg's values, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where every voice is heard and respected.
- 3. Leadership with Impact: The values instilled at Kellogg go beyond business acumen; they emphasize leadership with a purpose. Kellogg cultivates a sense of responsibility among its students to leverage their skills for positive societal impact. Whether through innovative business strategies, social entrepreneurship, or corporate social responsibility initiatives, Kellogg's culture encourages students to consider the broader implications of their actions.
- 4. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Kellogg celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit, empowering students to think beyond conventional boundaries. The curriculum and extracurricular activities provide a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to incubate their ideas and turn them into reality. The culture of fostering creativity and risk-taking is embedded in Kellogg's DNA, producing graduates who are not just job-seekers but creators and innovators.
- 5. Ethical Leadership: Integrity and ethical conduct are non-negotiable aspects of the Kellogg experience. The institution prioritizes the development of leaders who lead with integrity, making principled decisions even in the face of complexity. This commitment to ethical leadership contributes to Kellogg's reputation for producing not only successful professionals but individuals who are trusted and respected in their respective fields.
*WIP*