Hofstra (Zarb) vs Iona (LaPenta)
Which MBA program is right for you?
Hofstra (Zarb)
Iona (LaPenta)
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Hofstra (Zarb) | Iona (LaPenta) |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #121 | #149 |
| Acceptance Rate | 75% | 78% |
| Avg. GMAT | 588 | 520 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.2 | 3.2 |
| Class Size | 35 | 30 |
| Avg. Salary | $110,000 | $85,000 |
| Employment Rate | 83% | 80% |
| Annual Tuition | $30,000 | $25,000 |
The Verdict
Choose Hofstra (Zarb) if…
you want a Long Island MBA with finance training and suburban campus experience in Hempstead.
Full Hofstra (Zarb) Profile →Choose Iona (LaPenta) if…
you want a Westchester MBA closer to NYC with small cohorts and business analytics focus.
Full Iona (LaPenta) Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are small NYC metro MBA programs north of Manhattan. Hofstra Zarb (#123) on Long Island and Iona LaPenta (#149) in New Rochelle serve suburban working professionals who want an MBA without the Manhattan commute. Hofstra has the higher ranking and larger program. Iona offers smaller cohorts and Westchester location.
The Honest Take
Hofstra has the ranking advantage and broader program. Iona wins on class size intimacy and Westchester accessibility for residents north of the city. Neither has strong brand recognition beyond the NYC metro region. Both are practical choices for working professionals who want a nearby, affordable MBA credential. Hofstra is the stronger pick on paper; Iona is the better fit for Westchester-based students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
Hofstra Zarb (#123) outranks Iona LaPenta (#149).
Which is closer to NYC?
Iona in New Rochelle is 15 miles from midtown Manhattan. Hofstra in Hempstead is 25 miles.
Which has smaller classes?
Iona LaPenta has smaller MBA cohorts, offering more personalized attention.