The 2013 rankings of top graduate programs by U.S. News & World Report placed BYU’s Marriott School of Management and J. Reuben Clark Law School among the top 40 in the nation.
The Marriott School maintained its overall ranking at 34th while the law school advanced three places to 39th, giving BYU’s graduate programs greater recognition. These annual rankings compile data from experts as well as statistical research to determine the best graduate schools in the U.S., demonstrating the high quality education offered to graduate students.
Keith O’Dell, a student from Chico, Calif., studying business management, said the rankings confirm the exceptional curriculum at the Marriott School. O’Dell said the program is an investment in his future because of the quality education, competitive atmosphere and excellent professors who interact well with students.
‘This is a very prestigious program,” O’Dell said. “When people see you are from the Marriott School, it sets a high expectation and gives you an edge. It definitely drives me to perform my best.”
Gary Cornia, dean of the Marriott School of Management, said the rankings emerge from the outstanding qualities of faculty and students.
“We appreciate the recognition these rankings give to our students and the quality of the education they receive,” Cornia said. “Our students and graduates are helping to build a strong reputation around the world for their leadership, honesty and tremendous ability.”
Jake Green, a first-year law student from Salt Lake City, said BYU’s past rankings influenced his decision to attend BYU law school. Green said he believes the education offered at BYU deserves to be ranked with the best law schools in the country since it reflects the hard work students and faculty put in each day.
“It’s very competitive because everyone here is really smart, dedicated and hardworking,” Green said. “I’ll come in on Saturdays every week and everyone is here working.”
Raquel Gibson is studying for the LSAT through BYU Test Prep and plans to apply to the BYU law school. She said she is attracted to the school because of its positive rankings and low-cost but high-quality program. Gibson said she looks forward to the competitive environment that BYU is known for.
“I like the competition and it seems like a perfect fit,” Gibson said. “BYU has a reputation of making you work hard, so if you’re up for hard work, then go for it.”
