RIT (Saunders) vs Syracuse Whitman
Which MBA program is right for you?
RIT (Saunders)
Syracuse Whitman
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | RIT (Saunders) | Syracuse Whitman |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #101 | #98 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69% | 48% |
| Avg. GMAT | 580 | 630 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.3 | 3.4 |
| Class Size | 40 | 60 |
| Avg. Salary | $82,000 | $90,000 |
| Employment Rate | 82% | 85% |
| Annual Tuition | $48,000 | $50,000 |
The Verdict
Choose RIT (Saunders) if…
you want a tech-focused MBA with RIT's engineering brand in Rochester's optics and imaging corridor.
Full RIT (Saunders) Profile →Choose Syracuse Whitman if…
you want a higher-ranked program (#76 vs #101) with the Syracuse brand, supply chain strength, and ACC athletic network.
Full Syracuse Whitman Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are Upstate New York MBA programs about 80 miles apart. Syracuse Whitman (#76) in Syracuse has the higher ranking and the Orange brand name. RIT Saunders (#101) in Rochester draws on RIT's technology and engineering reputation. Whitman's supply chain program is nationally ranked. RIT's tech industry connections are its differentiator.
The Honest Take
Whitman is the higher-ranked program with better national brand recognition and strong supply chain placement. RIT wins for students who want tech-adjacent careers (IT management, product development, engineering management) where RIT's technology reputation opens doors that Syracuse can't. The Upstate NY job market is small for both, so most graduates recruit nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
Syracuse Whitman (#76) outranks RIT Saunders (#101).
Which is better for tech?
RIT Saunders draws on RIT's engineering and technology reputation. For tech management or product roles, RIT's brand carries weight with tech employers.
Which has the stronger alumni network?
Syracuse's larger alumni base and ACC athletic brand create more networking touchpoints nationally. RIT's alumni network is smaller but concentrated in technology.