U.S. News & World Report has recently come out with their top 2016 college rankings, and among them is The University of Alabama’s Manderson Graduate School of Business, which was ranked No. 58, increasing 16 spots from last 
year’s list.

Among the factors that go into the rankings each year are standardized test 
scores, such as the GMAT or GRE, and percent of graduates employed after 
completion of the program.

Tut Wilson, director of recruiting and admissions for the MBA program, said the average starting salary of graduates and national recognition are other aspects that contribute to the ranking.

“One aspect of the MBA program that was true when I graduated and continues to ring true years later is how committed the Manderson Graduate School of Business is to providing a personal touch,” he said. “From our well-known team approach to active student organizations to dedicated career services, students are encouraged to get engaged with their peers, faculty and staff. The coursework may be rigorous, but the faculty makes sure our students are successful in the classroom and prepared for the 
real world.”

Affectionately known to the faculty and staff as the “sweet 16,” the rise in ranking comes at the cost of the work that has been put in to make sure the program is the best in the country.

Some students are also pleased to see the new ranking.

“The MBA program provides so many opportunities to grow and make connections in the business world,” said Olivia Pruitt, a freshman majoring in chemical engineering on the STEM path. “It’s great to see that it is improving and increasing its national recognition.”

The Manderson website states that they offer “a curriculum that is founded on preparing students to be leaders and innovators in the business world of tomorrow. This strong commitment to student financial support, strong job placement successes and outstanding career services puts graduates in touch with leading U.S. corporations, guaranteeing higher salaries and better starting positions as a result of the Manderson MBA.”