2024 Best MBA Programs in Charlotte, NC

Queens University of Charlotte

McColl School of Business

• 1900 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte, NC - 28274
• 

Wake Forest University

Schools of Business

• 219 Farrell Hall, Charlotte, NC - 27109-7659
• 

Earn your MBA from one of the nation’s leading universities—on your schedule, from virtually anywhere. Our 100% online MBA empowers working professionals to become purpose-driven leaders who are ready to drive change, solve complex challenges, and make an impact in a global economy.

Make Connections that Matter: At Wake Forest, an MBA is about more than a degree—it’s about a community. Join our esteemed worldwide network of students, faculty, and over 80,000 alumni.

Gain In-Demand Skills: The online MBA program bridges strategy, finance, operations, marketing, management, and IT, with a pool of electives that lets you customize your degree to fit your career plans.

With an online MBA from Wake Forest University, you’ll gain the leadership, analytical, and technical expertise you can use to accelerate your career  growth. You could position yourself for a promotion, increased compensation, and greater responsibilities—even while still in the program.

Enjoy 100% Online Flexibility
Study on your time while balancing your career and life responsibilities. Earn a respected degree from anywhere—no relocation required.

Make Your MBA Fit Your Life
Choose from 3 convenient start dates per year and begin when it fits your schedule, goals, and needs. Complete your MBA in just over 2 years with short, 7-week semesters.

Join the Wake Forest Community
Become part of an esteemed, interconnected global network of alumni. Grow your connections, enhance your career outlook, and make lasting relationships.

Awards

#28 In the U.S.
Earn your MBA at a school that’s been ranked in the top 30 for 25 years in a row.

#24 Best Value
Enjoy the highest academic quality, made affordable for working adults.

Master the Skills that Employers Rank Highest

Driven by market needs, the Wake Forest MBA helps you gain the expertise that matters most. Become a well-rounded leader who can make analytical decisions, drive innovation, and inspire progress and growth. The courses deliver a powerful blend of in-demand skills:

PRACTICAL
technology, business analytics, project management, operations, marketing, finance/economics

SOFT SKILLS
strategic-thinking, communication, teamwork, resilience, problem-solving, interpersonal

LEADERSHIP
managing strategy and innovation, decision-making, motivation and influence, ethics, globalism, inspiring and managing talent

Concentrations

Choose an optional concentration to develop specialized expertise in one of three high-demand areas. You can also pick electives from across the concentrations to build a plan of study that targets your individual goals.

Business Analytics
Gain the technical, problem-solving, communication, and managerial expertise to identify data-driven strategies, solve complex challenges, uncover emerging opportunities, and expand your impact. Learn the differences between an MBA with a concentration in business analytics and a master’s in business analytics (MSBA).

Finance
Develop the advanced skills and knowledge to make complicated financial decisions, analyze investments, manage risk, and maximize shareholder value. Learn more about the finance concentration.

Strategy and Leadership
Build the management, strategic decision-making, negotiation, and change management skills to take on top leadership roles with broad scope and responsibility. Learn more about the strategy and leadership concentration.

Learn From Expert, Market-Connected MBA Faculty

Wake Forest online MBA faculty members are dedicated teacher-scholars who understand what it takes to succeed in the business world.

Focused on Applicable Skills
Faculty infuse real-world scenarios and practical learning applications to deliver dynamic, engaging courses with actionable outcomes.

Experienced in the Field
As professors of practice, our faculty have led prominent companies, started their own successful businesses, and consulted for leading organizations around the world.

Committed to Excellence
Our professors are at the center of Wake Forest University’s commitment to teaching excellence. They are active in publishing and research, keeping you at the forefront of industry trends and developments.

Admissions Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Preference given to candidates with at least two years of postgraduate work experience prior to the program start date (exceptions made for those with nontraditional experience)
• Full-time employment (candidates not employed full time may receive approval)

Program Length: Just over 2 years

Tuition: $69,975
Total Program Credits: 45

Core MBA Course Credits: 36

• Diverse Teams
• Purpose and Ethics in Business
• Financial Management
• Information Technology Management
• Behavior and Leadership in Organizations
• Financial Accounting
• Business Analytics I
• Business Analytics II
• Managerial Accounting
• Introduction to Strategy
• Business Law
• Managerial Economics
• Global Strategic Management
• Marketing Management
• Operations Management

Concentration or Elective Credits: 9

Choose a concentration or select electives from any of the following areas to build a plan of study that targets your individual goals.

Business Analytics

• Data Management
• Analytics Software Technology
• Visual Analytics and Influencing

Finance

• Financial Modeling and Forecasting
• Advanced Financial Management
• Tactical Asset Allocation and Portfolio Management

Strategy and Leadership

• The Influential Leader
• Contemporary Issues in Leadership
• Mastering Strategy Execution

Graduate Outcomes

According to a global survey by the GMAC:

• 2 out of 3 MBA graduates say they earned more promotions than their peers without an MBA.⁴
• 87% of graduate business school alumni gained skills that advanced their career.⁵

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The Belk College of Business

• 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC - 28223-0001
• 

Wingate University

School of Business

• Wingate University MBA Program, 11430 North Community House Road, Suite 150, Charlotte, NC - 28277
• 

Pfeiffer University at Charlotte

School of Business

• School of Graduate Studies, 1515 Mockingbird Lane, Charlotte, NC - 28209
• 

Pfeiffer University at Charlotte MBA

Executive Summary:

Pfeiffer University’s Charlotte School of Business, located in the vibrant city of Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a dynamic and innovative MBA program designed to develop ethical business leaders. Founded in 1885, Pfeiffer University has a long-standing commitment to providing transformative education rooted in Wesleyan values. The Charlotte campus, established in 1977, focuses on graduate and professional studies.

Key highlights:

• Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• Flexible MBA program with multiple concentration options
• Strong emphasis on experiential learning and real-world application
• Diverse student body with a mix of working professionals and full-time students
• 36-credit hour program with evening and online course options
• Focus on developing servant leaders with a global perspective
• Small class sizes fostering close student-faculty interactions
• Strategic location in Charlotte’s thriving business district

The Pfeiffer MBA program stands out for its personalized approach, integration of ethics and leadership development, and strong connections to the Charlotte business community. With a commitment to accessibility and affordability, Pfeiffer provides a high-quality business education that prepares graduates to make a positive impact in their organizations and communities.

School Overview

Pfeiffer University’s Charlotte School of Business builds upon the university’s rich history of providing transformative education. Founded as a home school by Emily C. Prudden in 1885, Pfeiffer has evolved into a comprehensive university with a strong focus on professional studies and servant leadership.

Mission: Pfeiffer University delivers a transformational, personalized education wherein students are shaped by a gifted, diverse, and committed community of mentors. Graduates are prepared to lead, have the disposition to serve, and possess the wisdom and skills to facilitate health and prosperity throughout the region and the world.

The Charlotte campus, established in 1977, caters specifically to working professionals and graduate students. The School of Business embodies Pfeiffer’s commitment to developing ethical leaders who can navigate the complexities of the global business environment.

Accreditation: The business programs at Pfeiffer University are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), ensuring that they meet rigorous standards of quality.

Rankings: While Pfeiffer’s MBA program may not appear in national rankings, it is recognized regionally for its quality and value. The school’s focus is on providing an accessible, high-quality education rather than chasing rankings.

Academic Programs

Pfeiffer’s Charlotte School of Business offers the following graduate programs:

Program	Highlights
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	– 36 credit hours – Evening and online options – Multiple concentration choices
MBA/MS in Organizational Change	– Dual degree program – Focuses on leading organizational transformation
MBA/MHA (Health Administration)	– Dual degree program – Prepares leaders for healthcare industry

The MBA program allows students to customize their degree with concentrations in areas such as:

• Financial Fraud
• Global Leadership
• Health Administration
• Human Resource Management

Additionally, Pfeiffer offers a 3/2 program that allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Leadership and an MBA in just five years.

Curriculum and Pedagogy

Pfeiffer’s MBA curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals while developing critical thinking and leadership skills. The program emphasizes:

• Experiential Learning: Case studies, team projects, and real-world consulting opportunities
• Ethical Leadership: Integration of ethics and social responsibility throughout the curriculum
• Global Perspective: Courses that address international business challenges and opportunities
• Technology Integration: Use of business analytics and digital tools in decision-making

The core curriculum covers essential business areas such as:

• Organizational Communications
• Managerial Accounting
• Business Agility
• Data-Informed Decision-Making
• Strategic Management and Leadership

Pfeiffer’s approach to teaching combines traditional lectures with interactive discussions, group work, and hands-on projects. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention and active engagement with faculty and peers.

Faculty and Research

The Charlotte School of Business boasts a diverse faculty with both academic credentials and real-world business experience. Many faculty members are active practitioners in their fields, bringing current industry insights into the classroom.

While specific research centers are not mentioned, faculty members engage in applied research that addresses practical business challenges. The school emphasizes the integration of research findings into the curriculum, ensuring that students benefit from the latest business insights and best practices.

Student Experience

Class Profile	Admissions Statistics
Average age: 32	GMAT: Optional
Work experience: 5-7 years (avg.)	Undergraduate GPA: 2.8 minimum
International students: 15%	Application deadlines: Rolling admissions
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1	Letters of recommendation: 3

Pfeiffer’s MBA program attracts a diverse group of working professionals from various industries. The small cohort size fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can build strong relationships with peers and faculty.

Campus Life: While many students are working professionals, Pfeiffer offers opportunities for engagement through:

• Business-focused student organizations
• Networking events with local business leaders
• Community service initiatives
• Guest speaker series

Admissions Process:

• Online application
• Official transcripts
• Professional resume
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

GMAT scores are waived for applicants with significant work experience or a strong undergraduate GPA.

Global Focus

Pfeiffer’s MBA program emphasizes a global perspective throughout the curriculum. While specific international study programs are not mentioned, the school aims to prepare students for leadership in a global business environment through:

• Courses addressing international business challenges
• Case studies featuring global companies
• Faculty with international business experience
• Diverse student body providing cross-cultural perspectives

Career Development and Outcomes

Pfeiffer’s Career Services office provides support to MBA students and alumni through:

• One-on-one career coaching
• Resume and interview preparation
• Networking events with local employers
• Job search strategies and resources

While specific employment statistics are not publicly available, Pfeiffer emphasizes that its MBA graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in various industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, and non-profit sectors.

Alumni Network

Pfeiffer University boasts a network of over 18,000 alumni worldwide. The Charlotte School of Business leverages this network to provide:

• Mentoring opportunities for current students
• Guest speakers for classes and events
• Networking events in the Charlotte area
• Job and internship connections

Notable alumni have gone on to leadership positions in companies across the Southeast and beyond, though specific names are not provided.

Leadership and Social Impact

Pfeiffer’s commitment to developing servant leaders is evident in its MBA program through:

• Integration of ethics and social responsibility in core courses
• Community service projects as part of the curriculum
• Focus on sustainable business practices
• Emphasis on stakeholder value creation beyond shareholder returns

The Francis Center for Servant Leadership at Pfeiffer provides additional resources and programming to support students’ development as ethical leaders.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

While not a primary focus, Pfeiffer’s MBA program supports aspiring entrepreneurs through:

• Elective courses in entrepreneurship and innovation
• Guest speakers from the startup community
• Connections to local incubators and accelerators
• Faculty with entrepreneurial experience

Resources and Facilities

Pfeiffer’s Charlotte campus provides a modern learning environment tailored to working professionals, including:

• State-of-the-art classrooms with latest technology
• Computer labs with business software
• Group study spaces
• Library resources and databases

Tuition and Financial Aid:

Tuition and Costs	Financial Aid Options
Per credit hour: $875	Federal loans
Total program cost: $31,500 (36 credits)	Employer tuition reimbursement
Fees: Minimal additional fees	Graduate assistantships
	Military benefits

Pfeiffer is committed to making its MBA program accessible and affordable, offering various financial aid options and payment plans.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Pfeiffer’s Charlotte School of Business maintains strong connections with the local business community, including:

• Guest speakers from local companies
• Consulting projects with area businesses
• Internship opportunities with partner organizations
• Advisory board of business leaders providing industry insights

Unique Features and Traditions

• Servant Leadership Focus: Pfeiffer’s emphasis on ethical leadership and community service sets it apart from many other MBA programs.
• Flexible Program Design: Evening and online course options cater to working professionals.
• Small, Cohort-Based Classes: Foster strong relationships and networking opportunities.
• Integration of Faith and Learning: While not overtly religious, Pfeiffer’s Wesleyan heritage informs its approach to business education.

Conclusion

Pfeiffer University’s Charlotte School of Business offers a distinctive MBA program that combines academic rigor with practical application, all within a framework of ethical leadership and social responsibility. The program’s strengths lie in its:

• Flexible, accessible format for working professionals
• Strong emphasis on leadership development and ethics
• Small class sizes fostering close interactions
• Connection to Charlotte’s vibrant business community
• Commitment to affordability and value

While it may not have the national recognition of larger business schools, Pfeiffer’s MBA program provides a high-quality, personalized education that prepares graduates to make a positive impact in their organizations and communities. For students seeking a transformative business education grounded in values-based leadership, Pfeiffer’s Charlotte School of Business offers a compelling option in the heart of a major business hub.

Additional Information:

• School Control: Private, not-for-profit
• Student/Faculty Ratio: 15:1
• In-State MBA Tuition & Fees: $31,500 (calculated based on 36 credit hours at $875 per credit)
• Average GMAT Score: Optional (not required)
• Business School Enrollment: Specific numbers not provided, but includes both undergraduate and graduate programs
• Average MBA Starting Salary: Unknown (not publicly available)
• Total Concentrations: At least 4 (Financial Fraud, Global Leadership, Health Administration, Human Resource Management)

Citations:
[1] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/history/
[2] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/about-pfeiffer/mission-statement/
[3] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/academics/academic-departments/department-of-business/
[4] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/business-management-and-leadership/
[5] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/business-management-and-leadership-degree-completion-2/
[6] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/
[7] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/master-of-business-administration/
[8] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/academics/academic-centers/teaching-and-learning/
[9] https://mba.charlotte.edu/meet-our-team/faculty
[10] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/academics/academic-centers/
[11] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/student-life/charlotte/
[12] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/master-of-business-administration/mba-admissions-requirements/
[13] https://library.pfeiffer.edu/c.php?g=1024231&p=7419272
[14] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/program/business-administration-and-organizational-change-mba-msoc/
[15] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/directory/
[16] https://www.pfeiffer.edu/cpsc_program_type/charlotte/