SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business continues to earn national and global recognition, with major gains in the latest Financial Times Executive Education Rankings.
The Eccles School’s Open Enrollment Executive Education programs rose to No. 27 overall globally in the 2026 rankings, up from No. 41 last year, and ranked No. 2 among U.S. public schools.
The school also returned to the Custom Executive Education rankings at No. 65 worldwide and No. 4 among U.S. public schools, following its 2024 ranking.
The rankings reflect growing momentum for the Eccles School’s executive education portfolio, which is designed to help organizations and professionals navigate rapidly evolving business challenges through practical, high-impact learning experiences.
“These rankings reflect the strength of the experience we’re delivering,” said Brad Vierig, Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and Executive Education. “Organizations and professionals are looking for learning that is immediately relevant, practical, and connected to today’s business challenges. Our focus is on creating programs that translate directly into stronger leadership, better decision-making, and meaningful impact in the workplace.”
The Financial Times Executive Education rankings evaluate programs based on criteria including participant and client satisfaction, program design, faculty quality, international reach, follow-up support, and the extent to which programs deliver new skills and learning that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
“These results reinforce the Eccles School’s commitment to delivering education that is both academically rigorous and deeply connected to industry,” said Kurt Dirks, Dean of the David Eccles School of Business. “As the pace of change accelerates across every sector, organizations are looking for partners that can help develop adaptable, forward-thinking leaders. Our Executive Education programs are designed to meet that moment while strengthening the connection between the university and the business community.”
The latest rankings add to a growing list of national and international recognitions for the Eccles School. The school’s Executive MBA program was recently ranked No. 17 in the United States by the Financial Times, further highlighting the strength of the school’s graduate and executive education ecosystem.
About the David Eccles School of Business
Founded in 1917, the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah is dedicated to driving student success through academic rigor, immersive real-world learning, and strong career outcomes. Located in one of the nation’s most dynamic regions for business and entrepreneurship, the school is shaped by a distinctive Mountain West ethos of growth, grit, and ambition.
At the Eccles School, students don’t just earn a degree or learn business — they live it. Through a rigorous, integrated curriculum led by renowned faculty and hands-on experiences that translate knowledge into practice, graduates develop strong business fundamentals, durable skills, the mindset, and confidence to lead with integrity and create impact across industries and communities. The school’s centers and institutes serve as a bridge between academics and the business community, connecting students to real-world opportunities while advancing applied research and partnerships that contribute to business and society.
Learn more at Eccles.Utah.edu.