Babson vs Villanova Business School

Colleges and Universities A-Z Babson College
1

Hello,

I’m currently a high school junior and trying to decide between the two. I know I would like to do the NROTC Marine Option, which both schools offer (Babson’s is off campus), and I would also like to go into business. I’m very interested in both the fields of finance and entrepreneurship. In addition, after serving my time, I plan on applying to very good MBA programs such as Wharton. Thus, I am not sure if I should go to Babson undergrad and get the heavy dose of entrepreneurship that they offer, go to the Marines Corps, and then pursue finance in Graduate school (I know the entrepreneurial experience is much more unique and substantial at Babson as apposed to Villanova, especially the FME program that you run your own business). Or, on the other hand, I should go to the VBS, study entrepreneurship as a minor, major in finance, and be at a bigger university with what is considered to be a better Business school and one that would look better to graduate schools. Also if anyone knows of any other schools that sound like they would suit my profile, please let me know.

Thanks!

2

I can provide my perspective as a Babson undergrad. Love the school. FME is a mixed bag—stressful, sometimes annoying, but undeniably unique and a good learning experience. Beyond that, entrepreneurship truly permeates every aspect of academic and student life.

As someone also planning to go to a top MBA program, I can note that Babson is climbing the rankings rapidly. We were recently ranked the #1 college in America (overall) by Money Magazine. Our Bloomberg undergrad business ranking jumped from #36 to #26 from 2013 to 2014, while Villanova dropped from #15 to #24. I wouldn’t be sure that Villanova will be looked at more favorably than Babson, especially in upcoming years and especially as entrepreneurship becomes more popular.

One thing to consider—Babson’s acceptance rate is significantly lower, so I would see where you get in before making a decision.