Northwestern's Latest: Kellogg Shines in Consulting, Mental Health Costs Rise for Kids

Northwestern University: Education, Health Care, and Social Impact

Northwestern University continues to capture attention with news that spans education, health care, and social impact. From the rising costs of mental health care for children to Kellogg's top-tier performance in MBA consulting placements, the university is shaping national conversations—and investors are watching closely.

Rising Behavioral Health Care Costs for Children

Health care costs for U.S. children have shifted dramatically in recent years, with behavioral health care now accounting for a staggering 40% of all medical spending in 2022, up from just 22% in 2011. , according to . as research shows.

This shift highlights a growing need for mental health services for children, but it also points to a troubling trend: the rising financial burden on families. In fact, families with at least one child receiving behavioral health services are about 40% more likely to face extreme financial strain. One in 21 U.S. families is now spending more than 10% of their income on out-of-pocket health care costs for children. This could have long-term implications for household budgets and broader economic trends, especially for middle- and lower-income families.

Kellogg School of Management Excels in Consulting Placements

On a more positive note, Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management is making waves in the MBA space, particularly in consulting placements. For the Class of 2024, . This achievement is a testament to Kellogg's robust career infrastructure, including strong connections with major consulting firms, structured case prep, and a curriculum that emphasizes strategic thinking and analytics.

Consulting is the top career path for Kellogg graduates, and the school's focus on global business and data-driven decision-making aligns well with the consulting industry's demands. For investors in education or those tracking the business school landscape, Kellogg's success underscores the value of programs that offer practical, high-impact career outcomes.

Broader Implications for Investors and Society

These developments offer a mixed picture for investors and the public alike. On one hand, the surge in behavioral health care costs reflects a growing societal need but also signals potential long-term financial pressures on households. For investors in the health care sector, this could point to opportunities in mental health services, telehealth, and insurance products tailored to children's needs. It could also signal regulatory or policy shifts aimed at making these services more accessible and affordable.

On the other hand, the strong performance of Kellogg in the consulting field points to the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in strategy and analytics. For those tracking education trends, this suggests that business schools with a clear value proposition and strong industry ties are likely to continue attracting top talent and offering strong returns on investment for students and alumni.

Looking Ahead

As we approach the end of 2025, the trends emerging from Northwestern University offer a snapshot of two key areas of focus for investors and policymakers: the rising costs of mental health care and the value of business education in the consulting sector. The shift in health care spending toward behavioral services is unlikely to slow down, especially with growing awareness of mental health issues and increased accessibility to care.

Meanwhile, business schools like Kellogg are setting new benchmarks in career outcomes, which could influence how investors view the long-term ROI of an MBA. As these trends continue to evolve, it will be important to monitor how they impact broader economic and social dynamics, from household budgets to workforce development in high-growth industries.