Popular Sections for North Carolina MBA Students
Interactive Table | Best MBAs Detail | Tuition | Salary | ROI | Average GMAT | No GMAT / GRE | How We Rank
Executive Summary MBA Programs in North Carolina for 2025
$43,443
Average MBA Tuition in North Carolina
$80,629
Average Starting MBA Salary in North Carolina
563
Average GMAT Scores in North Carolina
2,465
Average Student Enrollment in North Carolina
- In North Carolina there are 15 campus and 14 online MBA Programs.
- Starting salary for new MBA graduates in North Carolina is reported to be between $44,100 and $152,297 with an average of $80,629.
- Tuition for North Carolina campus MBA programs ranges from $9,790 to $157,546, and averages $43,443
- Online tuition in for North Carolina MBAs ranges between $9,790 to $157,546, with an average total tuition cost of $46,189
- The ROI for MBA programs in North Carolina is between the highest of 996% and the lowest of -3% with an average of 207%
- Average student enrollment in North Carolina varies between 163 and 5,161 with an overall average of 2,465.
- Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA programs in North Carolina varies between 6:1 and 24:1 with an average of 15:1 students.
- A GMAT score between 435 and 718 with an average of 563 is needed for acceptance into an MBA program.
- North Carolina has 17 MBA programs are ranked by the following institutions MBAGuide: 16, US News: 3, BW: 3, Economist: 3, Forbes: 2 and FT: 2.
Key Highlights:
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- This guide provides comprehensive data about tuition fees, average starting salaries, GMAT scores, and enrollment statistics for MBA programs in North Carolina.
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- It includes detailed profiles of both online and on-campus MBA programs in North Carolina, outlining their strengths, unique specializations, faculty expertise, and alumni networks to help align your study choice with your career ambitions.
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- This guide offers insights into North Carolina's diverse economic sectors, illustrating how an MBA degree can be a potent tool in these industries.
Top 5 Industries and Companies Hiring MBA Graduates in North Carolina
North Carolina has a diverse economy that includes industries like finance, pharmaceuticals, technology, and food processing, among others. This variety makes it an ideal location for prospective MBA students with a wide range of interests and career aspirations.
Finance is a significant sector in North Carolina, especially in Charlotte, known as the second-largest banking center in the United States after New York. MBA students with a concentration in finance can benefit from numerous career opportunities in this field.
The state's Research Triangle Park is one of the largest research parks in the world, hosting over 200 companies. This makes North Carolina an excellent destination for MBA students specializing in innovation management or entrepreneurship.
North Carolina's food processing industry, particularly the processing of poultry and other livestock, is another area where MBA students specializing in supply chain management or operations could find substantial opportunities.
In the technology sector, North Carolina is home to a thriving scene of startups and tech companies. An MBA with a concentration in information systems or tech entrepreneurship could provide valuable opportunities in this area.
Major Industries in North Carolina | Relevance to MBA Students |
---|---|
Finance | An MBA concentration in Finance can lead to opportunities in banking and financial services. |
Research and Development | Ideal for those with an MBA concentration in Innovation Management or Entrepreneurship. |
Food Processing | An MBA concentration in Supply Chain Management or Operations is beneficial in this industry. |
Technology | An MBA concentration in Information Systems or Tech Entrepreneurship is ideal for this sector. |
Top Hiring Companies in North Carolina | Why Work There |
---|---|
Bank of America | Offers a wide range of opportunities in financial management and consulting. |
Lowe's Companies | Provides opportunities in retail and supply chain management. |
Duke University | Offers roles in higher education administration and project management. |
SAS Institute | Provides opportunities in tech management at one of the world's largest private software companies. |
BB&T Corporation | Offers a wide array of roles in financial services and consulting. |
Sortable Table of the Top AACSB Accredited MBA Programs in North Carolina
Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best MBA programs by Rank, School Name, ROI, Tuition, Average Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in North Carolina. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.
Rank | University | Avg. Graduate ROI | Avg. In State Tuition | Avg. Starting Salary | State | Campus and Online |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | 33.00% | $100,218 | $133,517 | NC | Yes |
2 | Duke University | -3.00% | $157,546 | $152,297 | NC | Yes |
3 | North Carolina A&T State University | 996.00% | $9,790 | $107,327 | NC | Yes |
4 | Queens University of Charlotte | 110.00% | $41,940 | $88,100 | NC | Yes |
5 | Elon University | 96.00% | $42,237 | $82,600 | NC | No |
6 | North Carolina State University | 72.00% | $55,732 | $95,606 | NC | Yes |
7 | Wake Forest University | -3.00% | $79,975 | $77,800 | NC | Yes |
8 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | 298.00% | $18,634 | $74,200 | NC | Yes |
9 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | 122.00% | $37,946 | $84,260 | NC | Yes |
10 | Appalachian State University | 262.00% | $17,463 | $63,285 | NC | Yes |
11 | The University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 180.00% | $25,000 | $70,100 | NC | Yes |
12 | Meredith College | 132.00% | $34,320 | $79,600 | NC | No |
13 | Western Carolina University | 216.00% | $13,967 | $44,100 | NC | Yes |
14 | Fayetteville State University | 79.00% | $30,268 | $54,300 | NC | Yes |
15 | East Carolina University | 241.00% | $18,072 | $61,600 | NC | No |
16 | North Carolina Central University | 303.00% | $11,978 | $48,300 | NC | Yes |
10 Best Ranked MBA Programs in North Carolina
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Duke University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Queens University of Charlotte
- Elon University
- North Carolina State University
- Wake Forest University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Appalachian State University
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Winston-Salem State University
- Meredith College
- Western Carolina University
- Fayetteville State University
- East Carolina University
- The University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- North Carolina Central University
- Elizabeth City State University
- The University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Webb University
- Lenoir-Rhyne University
- Wingate University
- High Point University
- St. Andrews University
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Kenan-Flagler Business School
Location:
- Chapel Hill
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $100,218
- Graduate Salary: $133,517
- Graduate ROI: 33%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 706
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- Enrollment: 2820
Degree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 14
- Entrepreneurship
- Ethics
- Finance
- General Business
- Healthcare Administration
- Information Systems
- Leadership
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Project Management
- Real Estate
- Supply Chain
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 1
- National Rank: 7
- Online Rank: 4
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Duke University
The Fuqua School of Business
Location:
- Durham
,
- NC
Control: Private
Academic Year: Quarter
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $157,546
- Graduate Salary: $152,297
- Graduate ROI: -3%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 718
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 9:1
- Enrollment: 2094
Degree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 7
- Data Analytics
- Energy
- General Business
- Nonprofit
- Other
- Science and Technology
- Sustainability
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 2
- National Rank: 52
- Online Rank: 28
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
North Carolina A&T State University
Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics
Location:
- Greensboro
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $9,790
- Graduate Salary: $107,327
- Graduate ROI: 996%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 684
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Enrollment: 906
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- Concentrations: 5
- Accounting
- General Business
- Human Resources
- Management
- Supply Chain
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 3
- National Rank: 57
- Online Rank: 32
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Queens University of Charlotte
McColl School of Business
Location:
- Charlotte
,
- NC
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $41,940
- Graduate Salary: $88,100
- Graduate ROI: 110%
- GMAT Required: Optional
- Avg. GMAT: 645
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 11:1
- Enrollment: 499
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 8
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Cybersecurity
- Finance
- General Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Nonprofit
- Other
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 4
- National Rank: 90
- Online Rank: 58
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Elon University
Martha and Spencer Love School of Business
Location:
- Elon
,
- NC
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $42,237
- Graduate Salary: $82,600
- Graduate ROI: 96%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 581
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Enrollment: 2008
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 14
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Human Resources
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Supply Chain
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 5
- National Rank: 123
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
North Carolina State University
Poole College of Management
Location:
- Raleigh
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $55,732
- Graduate Salary: $95,606
- Graduate ROI: 72%
- GMAT Required: Optional
- Avg. GMAT: 554
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 21:1
- Enrollment: 4347
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 10
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Management
- Marketing
- Supply Chain
- Taxation
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 6
- National Rank: 168
- Online Rank: 117
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Wake Forest University
Schools of Business
Location:
- Winston-Salem
,
- NC
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $79,975
- Graduate Salary: $77,800
- Graduate ROI: -3%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 590
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- Enrollment: 1307
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 10
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- General Business
- Healthcare Administration
- Insurance
- Management
- Quantitative Methods
- Science and Technology
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 7
- National Rank: 188
- Online Rank: 129
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Cameron School of Business
Location:
- Wilmington
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $18,634
- Graduate Salary: $74,200
- Graduate ROI: 298%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 590
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Enrollment: 2994
Degree Level(s):
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 2
- Cybersecurity
- General Business
- Management
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 8
- National Rank: 194
- Online Rank: 133
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The Belk College of Business
Location:
- Charlotte
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $37,946
- Graduate Salary: $84,260
- Graduate ROI: 122%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 546
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 24:1
- Enrollment: 5161
Degree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 18
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Economics
- Energy
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Quantitative Methods
- Real Estate
- Supply Chain
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 2
- State Rank: 9
- National Rank: 202
- Online Rank: 139
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Appalachian State University
Walker College of Business
Location:
- Boone
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $17,463
- Graduate Salary: $63,285
- Graduate ROI: 262%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 532
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 16:1
- Enrollment: 4227
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 18
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- Insurance
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Supply Chain
- Taxation
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 10
- National Rank: 295
- Online Rank: 213
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Joseph M. Bryan School of Business and Economics
Location:
- Greensboro
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $25,000
- Graduate Salary: $70,100
- Graduate ROI: 180%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 525
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 21:1
- Enrollment: 4117
Degree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 19
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- E-Commerce
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Sports Management
- Supply Chain
- Taxation
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 2
- State Rank: 11
- National Rank: 314
- Online Rank: 228
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University College of Arts, Sciences, Business and Education Faculty of Business
Location:
- Winston-Salem
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $22,248
- Graduate Salary: $46,350
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required: No
- Avg. GMAT: 668
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
- Enrollment: 243
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Evenings
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 1
- Insurance
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 2
- State Rank: 12
- National Rank: 363
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Meredith College
School of Business
Location:
- Raleigh
,
- NC
Control: Private for-profit
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $34,320
- Graduate Salary: $79,600
- Graduate ROI: 132%
- GMAT Required: No
- Avg. GMAT: 530
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 6:1
- Enrollment: 163
Degree Level(s):
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Full-Time
- Concentrations: 4
- Entrepreneurship
- General Business
- Human Resources
- Operations Management
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 2
- State Rank: 13
- National Rank: 376
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Western Carolina University
College of Business
Location:
- Cullowhee
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $13,967
- Graduate Salary: $44,100
- Graduate ROI: 216%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 470
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Enrollment: 2024
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Concentrations: 13
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Hospitality Management
- Information Systems
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Sports Management
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 14
- National Rank: 469
- Online Rank: 352
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Fayetteville State University
Broadwell College of Business and Economics
Location:
- Fayetteville
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $30,268
- Graduate Salary: $54,300
- Graduate ROI: 79%
- GMAT Required: Conditional
- Avg. GMAT: 510
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Enrollment: 1121
Degree Level(s):
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- Concentrations: 6
- General Business
- Healthcare Administration
- International Business
- Marketing
- Product Management
- Project Management
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 2
- State Rank: 15
- National Rank: 480
- Online Rank: 362
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
East Carolina University
College of Business
Location:
- Greenville
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $18,072
- Graduate Salary: $61,600
- Graduate ROI: 241%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 470
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 22:1
- Enrollment: 4786
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Part-Time
- Concentrations: 12
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Information Systems
- Leadership
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Product Management
- Supply Chain
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 16
- National Rank: 486
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke
School of Business
Location:
- Pembroke
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: $53,700
- Graduate ROI: 384%
- GMAT Required: Conditional
- Avg. GMAT: 435
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Enrollment: 2121
Degree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- Concentrations: 9
- Accounting
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- Financial Management
- General Business
- Healthcare Administration
- Management
- Supply Chain
- Sustainability
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 17
- National Rank: 509
- Online Rank: 386
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
North Carolina Central University
School of Business
Location:
- Durham
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: $11,978
- Graduate Salary: $48,300
- Graduate ROI: 303%
- GMAT Required: Yes
- Avg. GMAT: 480
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Enrollment: 1202
Degree Level(s):
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- Concentrations: 6
- Accounting
- E-Commerce
- General Business
- Information Systems
- Other
- Science and Technology
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 3
- State Rank: 18
- National Rank: 516
- Online Rank: 392
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Elizabeth City State University
Walter R. Davis School of Business and Economics
Location:
- Elizabeth City
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: 0%
- GMAT Required: Optional
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Enrollment: 369
Degree Level(s):
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Full-Time
- Concentrations: 1
- Insurance
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 19
- National Rank: 536
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
The University of North Carolina at Asheville
Department of Management and Accountancy
Location:
- Asheville
,
- NC
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: $45,750
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Enrollment: 260
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Full-Time
- Concentrations: 2
- Insurance
- Science and Technology
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 20
- National Rank: 539
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Webb University
Gardner - Webb University
Location:
,
- NC
Control:
Academic Year:
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: :1
- Enrollment: Not Reported
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Concentrations: 6
- Accounting
- Economics
- Finance
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Marketing
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 30
- State Rank: 21
- National Rank: 590
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Lenoir-Rhyne University
Snipes School of Business
Location:
,
- NC
Control:
Academic Year:
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: :1
- Enrollment: Not Reported
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Concentrations: 4
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Information Systems
- Science and Technology
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 46
- State Rank: 22
- National Rank: 631
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Wingate University
School of Business
Location:
- Charlotte
,
- NC
Control:
Academic Year:
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: :1
- Enrollment: Not Reported
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Concentrations: 1
- Project Management
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 3
- State Rank: 23
- National Rank: 703
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
High Point University
Earl N. Phillips School of Business
Location:
- High Point
,
- NC
Control:
Academic Year:
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: :1
- Enrollment: 0
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Concentrations: 3
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 1
- State Rank: 24
- National Rank: 736
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
St. Andrews University
School of Business
Location:
,
- NC
Control:
Academic Year:
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation:
- Tuition: not reported
- Graduate Salary: Not Reported by School
- Graduate ROI: Not Reported
- GMAT Required:
- Avg. GMAT:
- Student / Faculty Ratio: :1
- Enrollment: Not Reported
Degree Level(s):
Offered As:
- Concentrations: 0
- Best in:
- Rankings
- City Rank: 122
- State Rank: 25
- National Rank: 808
- Online Rank: Not Ranked
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Compare MBA Program Averages in 2025
North Carolina, the U.S. and Online
Averages | North Carolina MBA Programs | Online MBA Programs | MBA Programs Nationwide |
---|---|---|---|
Average MBA Tuition | $43,443 | $37,167 | $42,528 |
Average Graduate Salary | $80,629 | $79,354 | $82,899 |
Average ROI | 207% | 196% | 185% |
Average GMAT Scores | 563 | 561 | 567 |
What is the Average Tuition for MBA Programs in North Carolina?
If you plan on attending an MBA program, it’s best to start thinking about fiscal responsibility. A prospective B-Student needs to weigh their tuition options. An AACSB-accredited MBA program can pave the way for a great starting salary or career advancement. An online MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.
While the average in-person MBA program in North Carolina will cost about $43,443, the least expensive MBA program is $9,790 from North Carolina A&T State University, and the most expensive is $157,546 from Duke University.
An Online MBA program from an institution in North Carolina will cost you between $9,790 from North Carolina A&T State University and $157,546 from Duke University. The average cost of online MBA programs within North Carolina is $46,189.
Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs
Average: $45,541 from North Carolina’s 15 in-person MBA Programs
Lowest in-person: $9,790 from North Carolina A&T State University
Highest in-person: $157,546 from Duke University
Most Affordable MBAs in North Carolina
- North Carolina A&T State University - $9,790.00
- North Carolina Central University - $11,978.00
- Western Carolina University - $13,967.00
- Appalachian State University - $17,463.00
- East Carolina University - $18,072.00
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - $18,634.00
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - $25,000.00
- Fayetteville State University - $30,268.00
- Meredith College - $34,320.00
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - $37,946.00
Most Expensive MBAs in North Carolina
- Duke University - $157,546.00
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - $100,218.00
- Wake Forest University - $79,975.00
- North Carolina State University - $55,732.00
- Elon University - $42,237.00
- Queens University of Charlotte - $41,940.00
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - $37,946.00
- Meredith College - $34,320.00
- Fayetteville State University - $30,268.00
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - $25,000.00
What is the Average Graduate MBA Salary in North Carolina?
While the average starting salary for graduates of an in-person MBA program in North Carolina is about $80,629, the lowest average MBA starting salary is $44,100 from Western Carolina University, and the highest average MBA starting salary is $152,297 from Duke University.
The average starting salary for graduates of an Online MBA program from an institution in North Carolina is between $44,100 from Western Carolina University and $152,297 from Duke University. The average starting MBA salary for graduates of online MBA programs within North Carolina is $81,921.
Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person MBA Programs
- Average: $84,579 from North Carolina’s 15 In-Person MBA Programs
- Lowest In-Person: $44,100 from Western Carolina University
- Highest In-Person:$152,297 from Duke University
Schools with the Highest Graduate MBA Salaries in North Carolina
- Duke University - $152,297.00
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - $133,517.00
- North Carolina A&T State University - $107,327.00
- North Carolina State University - $95,606.00
- Queens University of Charlotte - $88,100.00
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - $84,260.00
- Elon University - $82,600.00
- Meredith College - $79,600.00
- Wake Forest University - $77,800.00
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - $74,200.00
Schools with the Lowest Graduate MBA Salaries in North Carolina
- Western Carolina University - $44,100.00
- North Carolina Central University - $48,300.00
- The University of North Carolina at Pembroke - $53,700.00
- Fayetteville State University - $54,300.00
- East Carolina University - $61,600.00
- Appalachian State University - $63,285.00
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - $70,100.00
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - $74,200.00
- Wake Forest University - $77,800.00
- Meredith College - $79,600.00
What is the Average ROI for MBA Programs in North Carolina?
Choosing an MBA program requires more than a glance at the school’s reputation or curriculum. The return on investment (ROI) should take center stage in your evaluation. This measurement reveals the potential value derived from your tuition investment, putting key factors such as starting salary and career progression under the microscope.
By scrutinizing the ROI, you’re not just making a decision—you’re making an informed one. This approach will ensure the selection of an MBA program that provides the most bang for your buck. Checking the ROI might not be an afterthought; it could be the game-changer in your MBA journey.
While the average in-person MBA program ROI from North Carolina is 207%, the lowest ROI is -3% from Wake Forest University, and the best ROI is 996% from North Carolina A&T State University.
The ROI from Online MBA programs in North Carolina range between -3% from Wake Forest University and 996% from North Carolina A&T State University. The average ROI of online MBA programs within North Carolina is 218%.
In-Person ROI for MBA Programs
- Average: 189% from North Carolina’s 15 in-person MBA Programs
- Lowest in-person: -3% from Wake Forest University
- Highest in-person: 996% from North Carolina A&T State University
Highest ROI for MBA Programs in North Carolina
- North Carolina A&T State University - 996.00%
- The University of North Carolina at Pembroke - 384.00%
- North Carolina Central University - 303.00%
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - 298.00%
- Appalachian State University - 262.00%
- East Carolina University - 241.00%
- Western Carolina University - 216.00%
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - 180.00%
- Meredith College - 132.00%
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 122.00%
Lowest ROI for MBA Programs in North Carolina
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - 33.00%
- North Carolina State University - 72.00%
- Fayetteville State University - 79.00%
- Elon University - 96.00%
- Queens University of Charlotte - 110.00%
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 122.00%
- Meredith College - 132.00%
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - 180.00%
- Western Carolina University - 216.00%
- East Carolina University - 241.00%
What is the Average GMAT Score Needed for an MBA Program in North Carolina?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination used by MBA schools to assess their applicant pool. The test is strategically designed to measure an applicant’s analytical, verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The GMAT is used as a predictor of success in MBA programs and tests one’s ability to successfully handle the advanced quantitative and qualitative study of business and management.
While the average GMAT score needed for in-person MBA program in North Carolina is 563, the lowest average GMAT score is for an MBA program is 435 from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and the highest GMAT score needed is 718 from Duke University.
The average GMAT score needed for an online MBA program from an institution in North Carolina is between 435 from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke to 718 from Duke University. The average GMAT scored for online MBA programs within North Carolina is 570.
Average GMAT Score for In-Person MBA Programs
- Average: 577 from North Carolina’s 15 in-person MBA Programs
- Lowest in-person: 435 from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Highest in-person: 718 from Duke University
Lowest GMAT Scores in North Carolina
- The University of North Carolina at Pembroke - 435
- Western Carolina University - 470
- East Carolina University - 470
- North Carolina Central University - 480
- Fayetteville State University - 510
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - 525
- Meredith College - 530
- Appalachian State University - 532
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 546
- North Carolina State University - 554
Highest GMAT Scores in North Carolina
- Duke University - 718
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - 706
- North Carolina A&T State University - 684
- Queens University of Charlotte - 645
- Wake Forest University - 590
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - 590
- Elon University - 581
- North Carolina State University - 554
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 546
- Appalachian State University - 532
No GMAT or GRE – Best MBA Programs in North Carolina
Rank | University | GMAT | Online | College Name | Based In |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Queens University of Charlotte | Optional | Yes | McColl School of Business | Charlotte, NC |
2 | North Carolina State University | Optional | Yes | Poole College of Management | Raleigh, NC |
3 | Meredith College | No | No | School of Business | Raleigh, NC |
MBA Schools with the Most Alumni North Carolina?
The importance of networking, whether it’s by way of campus job fairs, student organization members, or faculty mentorship, should not be understated. The average MBA enrollment size has a direct impact on your studies, your job prospects, and your ability to define your career goals.
Every B-School has a strategy behind their enrollment sizes. If a prospective B-Student is looking for networking opportunities, wants to attend job fairs, and plans on joining student organizations, B-School enrollment size plays an important role in the decision making process. For the B-Student interested in the smaller cohort-style classroom experience and thrive with face-to-face collaboration with their professors, a manageable enrollment size is the preferred option.
For North Carolina state’s MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 33 and 2,019. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 39.00 and : 583.00.
Average Enrollment for In-Person MBA Programs
- Lowest: 33 from Queens University of Charlotte
- Highest: 2,019 from Duke University
- Average: 349 from North Carolina’s 17 MBA Programs.
- Average: 296 from 511 the nation’s campus MBA Programs.
Schools with the Lowest Student Enrollment in North Carolina
- Duke University - 2,019
- Wake Forest University - 353
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 334
- East Carolina University - 328
- North Carolina State University - 217
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - 178
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - 134
- Appalachian State University - 133
- Western Carolina University - 60
- Elon University - 55
MBA Programs with the Highest Student Enrollment in North Carolina
- Queens University of Charlotte - 33
- Elon University - 55
- Western Carolina University - 60
- Appalachian State University - 133
- University of North Carolina Wilmington - 134
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro - 178
- North Carolina State University - 217
- East Carolina University - 328
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - 334
- Wake Forest University - 353
What MBA Concentrations Available in North Carolina?
Highly competitive B-Schools recruit part-time and full-time professors that are both academic and industry influencers. They are the subject matter experts in their respective concentrations. To meet the diverse needs of North Carolina businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 36 MBA concentrations including:
- General Business: 16
- Management: 13
- Accounting: 12
- Finance: 11
- Marketing: 10
- Supply Chain: 9
- Entrepreneurship: 9
- Corporate Finance: 9
- Data Analytics: 8
- Other: 8
What Schools Offer the Widest Variety of MBA Concentrations in North Carolina?
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro: 19
- Appalachian State University: 18
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte: 18
- Elon University: 14
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 14
- Western Carolina University: 13
- East Carolina University: 12
- North Carolina State University: 10
- Wake Forest University: 10
- Queens University of Charlotte: 9
Cities Offering MBA Programs in North Carolina
Looking for a particular city in North Carolina with an accredited MBA program? Research and compare MBA programs from other cities in North Carolina. Find online programs, programs by concentration, by average GMAT score and more.
- Asheville
- Boone
- Chapel Hill
- Charlotte
- Cullowhee
- Durham
- Elizabeth City
- Elon
- Fayetteville
- Greensboro
- Greenville
- Pembroke
- Raleigh
- Wilmington
- Winston-Salem
The Importance of MBA Accreditation
The importance of accreditation can’t be underestimated. For many, knowing your school is accredited by the AACSB and regionally accredited by the US Department of Education is enough assurance that you will receive a quality education, where credits are more likely to transfer, and you will be qualified for loans, grants, and scholarships.
AACSB accreditation is considered to be the gold standard in business school credentialing. Established to promote high-quality business education in the U.S., AACSB members developed a stringent accreditation process. Members are held accountable for following an established business education framework set forth by the AACSB. With that comes MBA degrees conferrals that are widely recognized by Fortune 500 companies. This results in lucrative job opportunities.
MBA Program Options Available in North Carolina
Options for earning your MBA in North Carolina have never been more flexible. North Carolina MBA programs have become adept at offering effective alternatives for you to earn your MBA, no matter your life situation or schedule.
North Carolina has 17 Accredited MBA programs. 1 private and 12 public schools offering MBA programs.
North Carolina has 12 public schools and 1 private schools offering MBA degree programs.
17 Accredited MBA programs. and 12 public schools offering MBA programs.
North Carolina schools offer 10 different paths to earn your MBA in North Carolina including Full-Time, Campus, Online, Evenings, Weekends, Part-Time, Distance Education, 1-Year, Partnership and Off Campus.
To meet the diverse needs of North Carolina businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 36 MBA concentrations to specialize in.
Awards for MBA Programs in North Carolina
The ranking of MBA programs is certainly not an exact science and plenty of subjective reasoning and biases come into play. We offer insights into ranking as another way to evaluate a potential MBA program.
Of the 17 accredited MBA programs offered in North Carolina, 16 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication (MBAGuide, PQ, US News, BW, Economist, Forbes and FT) garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.
North Carolina schools have earned a total of 32 Best MBA awards from publications. Here are the top MBA schools and the number of awards the each program has garnered:
- Duke University: 7
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 7
- North Carolina State University: 5
- Wake Forest University: 1
- Queens University of Charlotte: 1
- University of North Carolina Wilmington: 1
- Meredith College: 1
- Fayetteville State University: 1
- Elon University: 1
- East Carolina University: 1
- The University of North Carolina at Pembroke: 1
- Western Carolina University: 1
- Appalachian State University: 1
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte: 1
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro: 1
- North Carolina A&T State University: 1
Publications and the number of awards granted for North Carolina schools:
- MBAGuide: 16
- US News: 3
- BW: 3
- Economist: 3
- Forbes: 2
- FT: 2
How We Rank the Best MBA Programs in North Carolina
MBAGuide.org employs a comprehensive ranking methodology that combines quantitative data (80% of the score) with qualitative assessments (20%) to evaluate MBA programs. The quantitative component considers factors such as student-faculty ratio, tuition, enrollment, and post-graduation salaries, while the qualitative aspect incorporates editorial ratings and school reputation, providing a well-rounded view of each program’s quality and value.
Best MBA Programs by State: Online and In-Person
Alabama – Online | In-Person
Alaska – Online | In-Person
Arizona – Online | In-Person
Arkansas – Online | In-Person
California – Online | In-Person
Colorado – Online | In-Person
Connecticut – Online | In-Person
Delaware – Online | In-Person
Florida – Online | In-Person
Georgia – Online | In-Person
Hawaii – Online | In-Person
Idaho – Online | In-Person
Illinois – Online | In-Person
Indiana – Online | In-Person
Iowa – Online | In-Person
Kansas – Online | In-Person
Kentucky – Online | In-Person
Louisiana – Online | In-Person
Maine – Online | In-Person
Maryland – Online | In-Person
Massachusetts – Online | In-Person
Michigan – Online | In-Person
Minnesota – Online | In-Person
Mississippi – Online | In-Person
Missouri – Online | In-Person
Montana – Online | In-Person
Nebraska – Online | In-Person
Nevada – Online | In-Person
New Hampshire – Online | In-Person
New Jersey – Online | In-Person
New Mexico – Online | In-Person
New York – Online | In-Person
North Carolina – Online | In-Person
North Dakota – Online | In-Person
Ohio – Online | In-Person
Oklahoma – Online | In-Person
Oregon – Online | In-Person
Pennsylvania – Online | In-Person
Rhode Island – Online | In-Person
South Carolina – Online | In-Person
South Dakota – Online | In-Person
Tennessee – Online | In-Person
Texas – Online | In-Person
Utah – Online | In-Person
Vermont – Online | In-Person
Virginia – Online | In-Person
Washington – Online | In-Person
West Virginia – Online | In-Person
Wisconsin – Online | In-Person
Wyoming – Online | In-Person
District of Columbia – Online | In-Person
Data sources: IPEDS, National Center of Educational Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences (ERIC), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), 520 MBA Schools, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). If you notice errors in the MBA program database, please contact us.
Find: MBA Programs in North Carolina | Online MBA Programs in North Carolina Rankings: MBA Program Rankings | Online MBA Program Rankings Guides: Guide to Earning an Online MBA | Guide to Earning an MBA Concentrations: Online MBA Concentrations | Campus MBA Concentrations