Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a business degree but have concerns as to how schools are addressing the recent financial crisis may be pleased by the results of a new Aspen Institute survey.

Based on the results of its biennial survey, the institute has found that more business degree programs continue to focus on the social, ethical and environmental ramifications of business decisions in the wake of the economic downturn.

Using the data that was collected, the institute was able to rank schools based on their commitment to educating students about what impact their decisions will have on the world. Of the 149 institutions that submitted information, Stanford University placed first in the 2011-2012 Beyond Pinstripes rankings.

The university's placement was due to the number of master of business administration degree (MBA) courses it offers that include a focus on society and the environment.

Other MBA programs that placed in the institute's top 10 include the Yale School of Management, Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and the University of North Carolina's Kenan-Flagler Business School.