Cornell University: Johnson/Queen's University: Smith
Programs Offered
Diversity Metrics
Student Perspective
Generally positive and highly regarded, but with distinct focuses and appeal. Cornell/Johnson leans towards broader opportunities and a more diverse ecosystem, while Queen's/Smith is known for its tight-knit community and strong finance reputation.
Cornell/Johnson offers broader career placement across various industries, including tech, consulting, and finance. Its strong brand name opens doors globally. Queen's/Smith excels in finance, with a particularly strong presence on Bay Street (Toronto's financial district). Career services are highly focused on placing students in these roles. Opportunities in other industries exist but are less prominent than at Johnson.
Cornell/Johnson has a more diverse and expansive culture due to its larger size and location within a larger university. It's often described as collaborative and supportive, but can sometimes feel less close-knit than Smith. Queen's/Smith boasts a famously tight-knit and supportive culture often referred to as 'Smith Magic'. Students emphasize the strong sense of community and camaraderie. It's often perceived as more homogeneous than Johnson.
- +**Cornell/Johnson:** Broader career opportunities across industries (Tech, Consulting, Finance). Strong brand recognition globally. Access to resources and network of a large Ivy League university. More diverse student body.
- +**Cornell/Johnson:** Opportunities to take courses in other schools at Cornell (Engineering, Law, etc.). Location in Ithaca offers a unique (though sometimes isolated) campus experience.
- +**Queen's/Smith:** Exceptionally strong network in Canadian finance. Tight-knit and supportive community. Intensive team-based learning experience. Reputation for developing strong leadership skills.
- +**Queen's/Smith:** More affordable tuition (especially for Canadian citizens/residents). Close proximity to Toronto for networking opportunities.
- -**Cornell/Johnson:** Higher tuition costs. Ithaca can feel geographically isolated. Larger class sizes may make it harder to form close relationships. Can feel competitive due to its large size.
- -**Cornell/Johnson:** Housing can be expensive and challenging to secure.
- -**Queen's/Smith:** Primarily focused on Canadian finance careers. Less brand recognition outside of Canada. Smaller alumni network compared to Johnson. Kingston is a smaller city with fewer amenities.
- -**Queen's/Smith:** May feel less diverse compared to programs in larger metropolitan areas in the US.
School Culture
The Johnson-Smith MBA program promotes a collaborative and globally-minded learning environment. Students experience a diverse cohort and opportunities for cross-border collaboration and networking.
Career Services
Career services provide students with resources for career exploration, skill development, and job placement. Services include career coaching, workshops, networking events, and access to a strong alumni network.
Campus
The Johnson School is located on Cornell University's campus in Ithaca, New York, which offers a mix of historic architecture and modern facilities. Smith School of Business is located on Queen's University campus in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, providing a blend of traditional and contemporary learning spaces.
Notable Alumni
- -David S. Taylor - Former CEO of Procter & Gamble
- -Irene Rosenfeld - Former CEO of Mondelez International
- -Kimbal Musk - Co-founder of The Kitchen Restaurant Group
Student Reviews Summary
Students praise the strong community, world-class faculty, and excellent career support that helps them transition into front-office roles. The program is considered intense but highly rewarding, with a powerful alumni network.