Minnesota (Carlson)
Programs Offered
Program Rankings
MBA
Masters in Business Analytics
Masters in Finance
Masters in Marketing
Student Perspective
Generally positive, with students highlighting a strong focus on career development, collaborative environment, and access to major corporations in the Twin Cities. Some concerns exist around the cost of living in Minneapolis and potentially limited international opportunities compared to coastal schools.
Carlson boasts a strong career services department and excellent placement rates, particularly within the Midwest. Students benefit from close relationships with major Minnesota-based corporations like Target, 3M, UnitedHealth Group, and General Mills. The school provides ample opportunities for internships, networking, and leadership development programs. While strong regionally, securing roles on the coasts might require more effort and proactive networking.
The Carlson School is known for its collaborative and supportive culture. Students often describe it as less cutthroat than some other top business schools. There's a strong emphasis on teamwork and peer learning. Students actively participate in clubs and organizations, and there's a good sense of community both inside and outside the classroom. The school fosters a culture of giving back and contributing to the local community.
- +Strong career placement in the Midwest, especially in fields like marketing, supply chain, finance, and consulting.
- +Excellent access to major corporations headquartered in the Twin Cities.
- +Collaborative and supportive learning environment.
- +Dedicated and accessible faculty.
- +Strong focus on experiential learning through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects.
- -High cost of living in Minneapolis.
- -Potentially limited international opportunities compared to schools in major global hubs.
- -Weather in Minnesota can be harsh, especially during the winter months.
- -Job market might be heavily concentrated in the Midwest, requiring more effort to break into coastal markets.
- -Some students feel the program could benefit from a more diverse student body.
School Culture
The Carlson School emphasizes experiential learning, global perspectives, and a collaborative community. Students engage in hands-on projects, international experiences, and leadership development activities, fostering a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
Career Services
Carlson's Career Center provides comprehensive support, including career coaching, resume workshops, mock interviews, and networking events. The school has strong relationships with leading companies, facilitating recruitment and internship opportunities for students.
Campus
The Carlson School of Management is primarily located on the University of Minnesota's West Bank campus in Minneapolis. Its facilities include modern classrooms, state-of-the-art technology, study spaces, and collaborative areas designed to enhance the learning experience.
Notable Alumni
- -Marilyn Carlson Nelson - Former CEO of Carlson Companies
- -James Sinegal - Co-founder and former CEO of Costco
Similar Schools
Student Reviews Summary
Students praise the accelerated 9-month format, cohort-based learning, and real-world experience through the Carlson Brand Enterprise program. The curriculum is considered rigorous and industry-relevant, with strong career support. | Students highlight the program's hands-on, practical skills development and the career impact, enabling transitions to top companies like McKinsey and Amazon. The curriculum is noted for providing a breadth of experience and valuable problem-solving techniques.