The Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is one of the top public business schools in the United States. Known for its innovative programs, high return on investment, and strong industry connections, Gies continues to rise in national and global rankings. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the academic reputation, admissions competitiveness, and key strengths of Gies.
Is It Hard to Get Into UIUC Gies?
Admission to UIUC Gies is moderately competitive, but the level of difficulty depends on whether you’re applying as a first-year undergraduate, transfer student, or graduate student.
Undergraduate Admission Stats:
- Acceptance Rate: Estimated around 28%–35% for the Gies College of Business
- Average Admitted GPA: Between 3.75–4.0 (weighted)
- ACT Score Range: 28–33
- SAT Score Range: 1300–1480
While not as selective as some Ivy League institutions, Gies seeks high-achieving, well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and academic excellence.
Graduate Program Admissions:
Online MBA (iMBA) and MS in Accountancy (iMSA) programs have garnered global attention for their quality and accessibility. The iMBA, in particular, is one of the most affordable and top-ranked online MBA programs in the world.
- iMBA Acceptance Rate: ~45%
- Average Work Experience: 8 years
- No GMAT Required
Graduate admissions prioritize professional experience, academic background, and leadership potential.
What Is the Ranking of University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign?
The University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States and enjoys global recognition for its academic excellence.
University-Wide Rankings (2024):
- U.S. News & World Report:
- #12 Top Public Universities in the U.S.
- #35 National Universities Overall
- QS World University Rankings:
- Top 100 globally
- Times Higher Education:
- Top 50 U.S. universities
UIUC is a research powerhouse, particularly strong in engineering, computer science, agriculture, and business.
Is UIUC Gies a Good School?
Yes — the Gies College of Business is highly respected, particularly for its emphasis on innovation, affordability, and real-world application. It consistently ranks among the top undergraduate and online graduate business programs in the nation.
What Sets Gies Apart?
- iMBA Program: Recognized as one of the best online MBAs globally, offering flexibility and value.
- Business Instructional Facility (BIF): A state-of-the-art, LEED-certified building fostering interactive learning.
- Experiential Learning: Through programs like Illinois Business Consulting (IBC) and Data Science Discovery, students work on real projects for Fortune 500 companies and startups.
- Corporate Partnerships: Gies students benefit from strong ties with companies like PwC, Deloitte, Amazon, Google, and Caterpillar.
Conclusion: Gies is not just a good school—it’s a leader in accessible, high-impact business education.
What Is Gies Known For?
The Gies College of Business is known for its innovative approach to education, its top-ranked online MBA program, and a commitment to making business education accessible and relevant.
Signature Programs and Features:
- iMBA (Online MBA Program):
- Offered in partnership with Coursera
- Ranked among the top online MBAs in the world
- Affordable (~$23,000 total cost)
- Designed for working professionals globally
- iMSA (Online Master of Science in Accountancy):
- Consistently ranked among top online accounting programs
- Ideal for CPA preparation and corporate roles
- Undergraduate Specializations:
- Finance
- Marketing
- Information Systems
- Business Analytics
- Management & Entrepreneurship
- Innovation and Impact:
- Gies prioritizes data-driven decision-making, AI integration, and entrepreneurial thinking.
- Partnerships with global firms help students build industry-ready skills.
- Center for Professional Responsibility in Business and Society:
- Promotes ethical leadership, sustainability, and diversity in business practices.
Career Outcomes and ROI
Graduates from Gies report strong starting salaries and rapid advancement in their careers.
- Undergraduate Starting Salary (2023 Average): $74,000
- iMBA Graduates: Reported career promotions and pay increases within 6–12 months of graduation.
- Top Employers:
- EY
- KPMG
- Microsoft
- JPMorgan Chase
- PepsiCo
Career resources such as Handshake, personalized coaching, and networking events make Gies a launchpad for future leaders.
