UT Haslam's EMBA Achieves Remarkable Ranking Boost in 2026

The Executive MBA (EMBA) program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's Haslam College of Business has made significant strides, recently ranking No. 6 among U.S. public institutions according to the London-based Financial Times' Top 100 Executive MBA Ranking for 2026. This notable achievement reflects a remarkable improvement of seven places from the previous year, solidifying Haslam’s position as a leader in graduate business education.

Consistent Performance Over the Years

This year marks the seventh consecutive year that Haslam's Executive MBA program has appeared in this prestigious ranking. The program has not only risen to 6th place among public universities in the U.S. but has also climbed up nine spots to 22nd position overall among all U.S. colleges. On a global scale, the program holds the 82nd position, showcasing its competitive edge in the international arena.

The rankings are derived from a blend of data, including feedback from the college's EMBA alumni, and various faculty and research metrics. This holistic approach ensures that the evaluation is thorough and reflects the program's ability to meet students’ needs.

Key Metrics of Success

The Financial Times’ ranking mechanism evaluates various metrics vital to the success of EMBA programs. Among these, alumni salaries, career achievement, and alumni satisfaction stand out. The data reveals that graduates of the Haslam EMBA program earn an impressive average salary of $247,139 just three years after finishing their studies. For the second consecutive year, this exceptional figure places Haslam at No. 7 among U.S. public institutions in terms of alumni salaries.

In addition to salary rankings, the program has received accolades for alumni satisfaction, ranking No. 4 among U.S. public institutions, and demonstrates a commitment to gearing student experiences toward achieving career goals where it ranks at No. 3 in the nation.

Commitment to Student Development

Amy Cathey, the associate dean for graduate and executive education at Haslam College, articulated the significance of the program's rankings. She remarked,