Financial Times MBA Ranking - Wharton & LBS tied for No. 1

In January 2009, the Financial Times (FT) released its highly anticipated annual Global MBA rankings, marking a significant moment in business education history. For the first time ever, a UK business school—London Business School—shared the prestigious top spot with the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. This joint number-one ranking represented not just a victory for these two institutions, but also an affirmation of the growing international stature of European business schools in a field historically dominated by American institutions. The 2009 rankings highlighted some major trends in global business education, with six schools from the United States making it into the top 10, and an increasing prominence of institutions from outside the traditional Western powerhouses.

Wharton and London Business School

The 2009 FT rankings were historic for several reasons, most notably the tie at the top between Wharton and London Business School. For decades, American schools had been the undisputed leaders in global MBA education. However, the fact that a UK business school—London Business School—shared the top spot with Wharton marked a significant shift. London Business School had long been considered one of the leading European business schools, but its rise to the top in global rankings confirmed the increasing importance of European schools in the competitive world of business education.

Wharton, as a consistent leader in the FT rankings, had remained an icon of business education. Its reputation for producing high-caliber graduates—particularly in finance, management, and consulting—had solidified its place as one of the best business schools in the world. Wharton’s curriculum is known for its rigorous quantitative and analytical training, providing a solid foundation in business fundamentals. Additionally, its extensive alumni network, strategic location in the heart of the U.S. financial capital, and strong connections with leading global companies made Wharton a coveted destination for MBA candidates.

London Business School’s ascent to the top reflected its growing influence in the global business education sphere. The school’s strong emphasis on international business and its diverse student body made it an attractive option for global professionals. London itself, as one of the world’s most influential financial centers, provided an ideal backdrop for students seeking exposure to international markets and career opportunities in sectors such as finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship. The school’s ability to attract top-tier faculty, its global alumni network, and its strategic location gave London Business School a unique edge in the highly competitive landscape of global MBA programs.

Harvard, Columbia, INSEAD, and Stanford

While London Business School’s achievement was noteworthy, the continued dominance of U.S. schools in the FT rankings reinforced the centrality of American institutions in shaping global business education. Harvard Business School (HBS), consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world, was placed third in the 2009 FT rankings. HBS’s case study method, which has become a cornerstone of modern business education, allows students to engage deeply with real-world business challenges, providing them with the problem-solving skills required to lead complex organizations. HBS is known for producing leaders who go on to shape industries, governments, and nonprofits, and its strong alumni network across the globe plays a key role in fostering career success for graduates.

Columbia Business School followed closely behind Harvard, ranking fourth in the 2009 FT rankings. Located in New York City, Columbia benefits from its proximity to one of the world’s leading financial hubs. The school’s strong reputation in finance and investment banking is a key draw for students seeking careers in Wall Street and beyond. Columbia’s academic rigor, combined with its strategic location and deep connections to global business networks, makes it one of the top choices for MBA candidates. The school’s emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, and global business ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to excel in a variety of industries.

INSEAD, based in France and Singapore, took the fifth spot in the 2009 rankings, continuing its reputation as one of the most prestigious international business schools. INSEAD’s two campuses, one in Europe and one in Asia, provide a truly global perspective on business education. Known for its diverse student body and intensive one-year MBA program, INSEAD offers a curriculum that emphasizes global business, cross-cultural management, and entrepreneurship. Its strong network of alumni across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East provides students with a powerful platform for global career opportunities.

Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), often considered one of the best business schools in the world, was ranked sixth in the 2009 FT rankings. Stanford’s reputation for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation is second to none, with the school being located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Stanford GSB’s focus on developing visionary leaders who can drive change in the business world has made it a top choice for aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in technology and innovation. Its highly selective admissions process, world-class faculty, and focus on leadership development continue to make it one of the most sought-after business schools in the world.

CEIBS, ISB, and Nanyang Business School

While the U.S. and European business schools have traditionally dominated the FT rankings, the 2009 rankings also highlighted the rising prominence of business schools in Asia. The China European International Business School (CEIBS), based in Shanghai, was ranked 8th in the world, making it the top business school in China and the only Chinese institution to appear in the global top 10. CEIBS’ rise reflected China’s growing importance in the global economy, with the school benefiting from its strategic location in Shanghai, a major global financial and business hub. CEIBS’ MBA program focuses on global business, leadership, and entrepreneurship, and the school has quickly built a strong reputation for providing an excellent education in the context of China’s rapid economic development.

Similarly, the Indian School of Business (ISB) earned a spot at 15th place in the global rankings, continuing its ascent as one of India’s premier business schools. ISB has gained recognition for its high-quality MBA program, which is known for its rigor, innovative approach to business education, and strong ties to the global business community. The school’s diverse student body and focus on emerging markets make it a standout in the rapidly growing Indian economy. As India continues to become a global economic powerhouse, ISB’s graduates are increasingly sought after by top multinational companies looking to expand in the region.

Nanyang Business School in Singapore, ranked 24th in the 2009 FT rankings, also demonstrated the rising importance of Asian business schools in the global landscape. Located in a key financial hub of Asia, Nanyang offers an MBA program with a focus on leadership, global business, and innovation. The school’s growing reputation in Asia, coupled with its strategic location in Singapore, makes it a popular destination for students seeking to build careers in the region’s dynamic business environment.

Cambridge and Oxford

The FT rankings also showcased the growing strength of business schools in the United Kingdom. The University of Cambridge’s Judge Business School, ranked 17th globally, was the second-highest-ranked UK business school in 2009. Cambridge’s MBA program is known for its rigorous academic approach, its focus on global business, and its collaborative learning environment. The school’s strong ties to the university’s prestigious academic community, combined with its extensive global network, make Judge a popular choice for students seeking to leverage the power of both business and academia in their careers.

The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, ranked 20th globally in the 2009 rankings, followed closely behind Cambridge. Oxford Saïd’s MBA program is renowned for its focus on leadership, ethics, and global business. The school’s strong ties to Oxford University’s long-standing academic excellence, combined with its international outlook and emphasis on practical experience, have contributed to its growing stature in global rankings. Like Cambridge, Oxford Saïd’s location in the United Kingdom provides students with access to some of the world’s leading financial and consulting firms, making it an attractive option for future business leaders.

Top 10 MBA Schools by Financial Times 2009:

1. (Tie) Wharton School (US)
   
2. (Tie) London Business School (UK)
   
3. Harvard (US)
   
4. Columbia Business School (US)
   
5. Insead (France/Singapore)
   
6. Stanford University (US)
   
7. (Tie) IE Business School (Spain)
   
8. Ceibs (China)
   
9. Sloan, MIT (US)
   
10. Stern, New York Uni (US)