Columbia MSBA vs NYU Stern MSBA — which is better for analytics consulting careers?

Question

I’ve been admitted to both Columbia University and NYU Stern for their MS in Business Analytics programs starting Fall 2026. My goal is to build a career in analytics consulting, working on business strategy and data-driven decision-making. Which program offers stronger placements in consulting firms, better networking opportunities, and a curriculum that aligns more with this career path?

Divakshi Arora · Accepted Answer

Choosing between the two often comes down to how you want to use your time during the program.
&bull; NYU Stern&rsquo;s proximity to Big Four and MBB consulting offices means more chances to do short consulting projects or semester internships before graduation. Some international grads have converted these into full-time offers, starting at $105K&ndash;$115K base. &bull; Columbia grads in consulting often benefit from the Ivy League signal when applying to strategy roles at global firms &mdash; one 2024 graduate with no prior consulting background secured a role at BCG&rsquo;s data strategy team with $110K base plus performance bonus. &bull; Stern&rsquo;s curriculum offers more electives in business strategy alongside analytics, while Columbia&rsquo;s is more technically intensive, which can be an advantage for data-heavy consulting roles. &bull; For international students, both programs qualify for the STEM OPT extension, but Stern&rsquo;s in-program work opportunities can help secure an H-1B sponsor faster by building U.S. work history before graduation. &bull; For ROI, Stern can offer faster payback if you land in-program work, but Columbia&rsquo;s brand can carry more long-term value for moves outside the U.S. later in your career.
For more details you can read these blogs on "Columbia MSBA " and "NYU Stern MSBA"

Hema A · Answer

For international students targeting consulting roles in the U.S., both Columbia MSBA and NYU Stern MSBA have strong employer networks, but the strengths are slightly different. Columbia&rsquo;s Ivy League brand carries weight globally and is especially recognised in finance and strategy consulting. Many graduates land roles at firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY-Parthenon, and Accenture, with average base salaries for consulting analytics roles in the $100K&ndash;$110K range, plus signing bonuses of $5K&ndash;$10K.
Columbia&rsquo;s reported placement rate for international MSBA graduates is above 90% within three months of graduation, with a significant share entering consulting and analytics strategy roles. NYU Stern&rsquo;s location in Manhattan gives daily access to top consulting recruiters and makes it easier to take part-time projects with firms while studying. For ROI, Stern&rsquo;s tuition is slightly lower, and the ability to work during the program helps offset living costs. Columbia&rsquo;s alumni network may open more doors internationally, while Stern&rsquo;s on-the-ground access to recruiters in New York can speed up job placement for consulting-focused roles.