Top Universities In USA For MBA Without GMAT Score
Introduction In the landscape of MBA admissions, the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) has traditionally been …
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Best MiM Colleges in USA: Top 7 Schools to Target
Dhruvin Jain
Apr 12, 2025
7 mins read
Best MiM Colleges in USA: Top 7 Schools to Target
If you're a recent graduate looking to launch your business career in the U.S., but not ready for an MBA, the Master in Management (MiM) is your best bet. In recent years, the U.S. has become a rising hub for high-quality MiM programs, offering international exposure, strong employer networks, and access to STEM OPT work visas.
Here’s everything you need to know—from program highlights to admissions tips—to choose the top MiM colleges in the USA.
MiM Colleges in USA: A Snapshot
What is a MiM (Master in Management)?
A MiM is a pre-experience business degree designed for students with 0–2 years of work experience. Unlike an MBA, which targets mid-career professionals, the MiM focuses on business fundamentals, leadership, and problem-solving—perfect for career starters.
Why MiM is Gaining Popularity in the U.S.
- STEM-designated MiM programs = longer work visa (up to 3 years OPT)
- Cheaper and shorter than an MBA
- Ideal for international students seeking a U.S. business degree and job experience
Ideal for Recent Grads with Little/No Work Experience
Most MiM programs in the U.S. require:
- Bachelor’s degree in any stream
- 0–2 years of work experience
- GMAT/GRE optional at most schools
- IELTS/TOEFL for international students
Duration, Cost, and Post-MiM Salary
| School | Duration | Tuition (Approx.) | Avg. Post-MiM Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cornell (SC Johnson) | 1 year | $60,286 | $75,000+ |
| Michigan Ross | 10 months | $56,500 | $70,000–$80,000 |
| Georgetown McDonough | 11 months | $60,000 | $70,000+ |
| UIUC – Gies | 9 months | $38,000 | $65,000 |
| BU – Questrom | 12 months | $55,000 | $68,000 |
| UMD – Smith | 9 months | $45,000 | $65,000+ |
MiM vs MBA in USA
| Feature | MiM | MBA |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Fresh grads | Mid-career professionals |
| Work Experience | 0–2 years | 3–5+ years |
| Duration | 9–16 months | 18–24 months |
| Cost | Lower | Higher (up to $150K+) |
| Focus | Business fundamentals | Leadership & strategy |
Work Visa Options (OPT & STEM OPT Extension)
Most top MiM programs in the U.S. are STEM-designated. This allows international students to stay and work for up to 3 years after graduation (1 year OPT + 2-year STEM extension).
Scholarships for International Students
Many MiM colleges in the USA offer scholarships, such as:
- Cornell Johnson Merit Scholarship
- Georgetown McDonough Global Leaders Award
- Michigan Ross MM Merit Fellowships
Top 7 MiM Programs in USA (2024)
1. Cornell University – SC Johnson College of Business
- Program: MPS in Management
- Duration: 1 year | Tuition: ~$60,000
- Location: Ithaca, NY
- Ivy League prestige with a leadership focus
- Designed for liberal arts or STEM undergrads
- STEM-designated (3-year OPT eligibility)
- Avg. Salary: $75,000+
2. University of Michigan – Ross School of Business
- Program: Master of Management (MM)
- Duration: 10 months | Tuition: $56,500
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Real-world learning via MAP projects
- Strong recruitment in tech, consulting, marketing
- GMAT optional
- Avg. Salary: $70,000–$80,000
3. Georgetown University – McDonough School of Business
- Program: MS in Management
- Duration: 11 months | Tuition: $60,000
- Location: Washington D.C.
- Capstone + global consulting projects
- Strong policy, finance, and consulting placements
4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Gies College of Business
- Program: MS in Management
- Duration: 9 months | Tuition: $38,000
- Location: Urbana-Champaign, IL
- STEM-designated
- Affordable tuition with high ROI
- Avg. Salary: $65,000
5. Boston University – Questrom School of Business
- Program: MS in Management Studies (MSMS)
- Duration: 12 months | Tuition: ~$55,000
- Location: Boston, MA
- Immersive industry engagement
- Strong placements in consulting and tech
6. University of Maryland – Robert H. Smith School of Business
- Program: MS in Business & Management
- Duration: 9 months | Tuition: ~$45,000
- Location: College Park, MD
- STEM-designated with hands-on learning
- Tracks in analytics, finance, and marketing
7. Duke University – Fuqua School of Business (Honorable Mention)
- Program: Master of Management Studies (MMS)
- Duration: 10 months | Tuition: $63,200
- Location: Durham, NC
- Globally respected with strong career services
- Excellent alumni network for placements
Conclusion
The MiM is your fast-pass into the U.S. business world—without waiting years for work experience. Whether you choose a STEM-designated track or focus on global consulting, the top MiM schools in the USA deliver career-focused programs built for ambitious grads.
- U.S. brand + international exposure
- High job placement in top industries
- Work visa support via OPT/STEM OPT
- Strong ROI compared to traditional MBAs
FAQs
What is the difference between MiM and MBA in the USA?
MiM is for recent grads with little to no work experience. MBA is for professionals with 3+ years of experience.
Do MiM programs in USA require GMAT?
Most schools have GMAT optional policies. A strong GPA + resume + SOP can often replace the GMAT.
Can I work in the U.S. after MiM?
Yes. If the program is STEM-designated, you get up to 3 years of work eligibility via OPT and STEM OPT extension.
Are MiM programs in USA STEM-designated?
Yes, many are! Examples: UIUC Gies, Cornell MPS, UMD Smith, and others offer STEM-approved programs.
What is the average salary after MiM in the USA?
Graduates from top MiM schools in the USA earn between $65,000 and $80,000, depending on industry and location.
Is work experience required for MiM in USA?
No. These programs are built for fresh graduates or those with limited work experience (0–2 years).
How long is a MiM program in the USA?
Most MiM programs are 9–12 months long, making them efficient and cost-effective.
Are scholarships available for MiM in USA?
Yes. All major schools offer merit-based, diversity, and international scholarships. Apply early to maximize chances.
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Dhruvin Jain
Articles: 20
Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.
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