Why Are Rice MBA Programs Popular For Career Growth?

Career growth is a top priority for those considering business school, and Rice MBA programs are designed with that goal at the center.

Whether students want to accelerate in their current field or broaden their opportunities across industries, the Rice MBA offers them a curriculum built around leadership, strategic thinking and real-world decision-making — and a strong ROI that pays off for years to come.

Strong Outcomes Backed by Top Rankings

Every student’s path is unique. That’s why we offer five different MBA programs to meet professionals on their path: Full-Time, Professional, Hybrid, Executive and Online MBA.

Rice University’s MBA programs are consistently ranked among the best in the country, due to our rigorous academics, strong employment outcomes and tight-knit community.

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Our graduates regularly land competitive roles across consulting, finance, energy, technology and healthcare. Rice Business is proudly home to the #1 MBA in Texas (Financial Times, 2023-24, based on global rankings) and the #13 Best Part-Time MBA (U.S. News and World Report, 2025) — and the career outcomes of our graduates proves why.

Long-Term ROI on Your Rice MBA

Salary growth is a leading consideration for many applicants, and Rice MBA graduates often see immediate increases in earning potential. Full-Time MBA graduates see an average starting salary of $150,000 and a $33k average signing bonus, according to career outcomes from the Class of 2024.

MBA tuition is an important factor for prospective students — but it shouldn’t make the decision. An MBA from Rice pays lifelong dividends, and graduates see a return on their investment fairly quickly. 

See how the numbers add up with James Weston, senior associate dean for degree programs and Harmon Whittington Professor of Finance:
 

Plus, the combination of transferable skills, strategic thinking and access to top employers is immediate, long-lasting and invaluable.

The Rice MBA Opens Doors

Houston’s position as one of the most globally connected business hubs gives students proximity to a wide range of industries, including energy, healthcare, finance, innovation and international trade. That proximity translates into direct access to companies that actively recruit on campus, giving Rice MBA students regular, relationship-driven touchpoints with employers across Houston’s most influential industries. 

Pivot, Climb and Grow at Rice Business

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The Career Development Office helps students build relationships with leading employers through events, alumni networks and project-based learning, and we’re intentional about fostering strong connections. That’s how approximately 70% of our Full-Time MBA graduates accept job offers from right here within the Rice Business community. 

Many Rice MBAs also attend business school with one goal in mind: pivot. From our Professional MBA Class of 2024, 33% of graduates changed employers, while 24% made a strategic shift into a new industry. 

Whether your goal is to launch your career, level up or enter a new field, Rice Business provides a unique foundation for career growth in Houston and beyond.

Support at Every Step

For prospective MBA students seeking career advancement, meaningful support and long-term opportunity, Rice offers a powerful environment to take the next step with confidence. 

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And that support doesn’t end at graduation. Our alumni remain closely connected to Rice Business throughout their careers, with lifetime access to professional and educational resources, alumni networks across the country, and a community of more than 60,000 Rice University alumni around the world.

Connect with an MBA student ambassador to hear how the Rice MBA makes an impact on your career, immediately. 

Explore the Rice MBA