Hawaii (Shidler) vs SDSU Fowler
Which MBA program is right for you?
Hawaii (Shidler)
SDSU Fowler
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Hawaii (Shidler) | SDSU Fowler |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #137 | #93 |
| Acceptance Rate | 65% | 47% |
| Avg. GMAT | 539 | 621 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.3 | 3.42 |
| Class Size | 35 | 50 |
| Avg. Salary | $80,000 | $92,000 |
| Employment Rate | 78% | 92% |
| Annual Tuition | $21,000 | $12,420 |
The Verdict
Choose Hawaii (Shidler) if…
you want Asia-Pacific business focus with the only AACSB-accredited MBA in Hawaii and island lifestyle.
Full Hawaii (Shidler) Profile →Choose SDSU Fowler if…
you want a higher-ranked program (#82 vs #137) in San Diego with tech and defense career access.
Full SDSU Fowler Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are Pacific-region state school MBAs with beach lifestyle appeal. SDSU Fowler (#82) in San Diego offers stronger career outcomes and access to Qualcomm, defense contractors, and biotech. Hawaii Shidler (#137) in Honolulu is the gateway to Asia-Pacific business. SDSU costs less when factoring in Hawaii's elevated cost of living. Fowler produces higher salaries.
The Honest Take
SDSU Fowler is the better MBA for mainland career outcomes. San Diego's tech, defense, and biotech employers create real career pipelines. Hawaii Shidler wins for Asia-Pacific business and students who want to build careers in Hawaii. The cost of living difference is massive: San Diego is expensive, but Hawaii is even more so. For career ROI, SDSU wins. For lifestyle and Pacific Rim access, Shidler has no mainland equivalent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
SDSU Fowler (#82) outranks Hawaii Shidler (#137).
Which is better for international business?
Hawaii Shidler for Asia-Pacific specifically. SDSU has broader international exposure through San Diego's border economy and global companies like Qualcomm.
Which has a lower cost of attendance?
SDSU Fowler, despite San Diego's high prices. Hawaii's cost of living (rent, groceries, gas) exceeds San Diego by 15-25%.