Deans' perceptions of published rankings of business programs

ABSTRACT

Using a survey of college of business deans, the authors investigate perceptions of published rankings of academic programs. Published rankings have become quite prominent, and anecdotal evidence suggests great efforts are being undertaken to be included in rankings or enhance rankings. The authors conducted a survey of business school deans to gain a better understanding of their perceptions of published rankings, and found that the majority of deans included in the survey did not perceive rankings to be reflective of underlying program quality. However, the majority chose to pursue rankings because of the perceived benefits to the university, students, and alumni. The authors also found statistically significant differences in deans' perceptions across universities with different accreditation statuses, sizes, and funding sources.

KEYWORDS:

• Cost and benefit
• perceptions
• quality
• rankings
• survey
• U.S. News & World Report