The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most popular master’s degree to earn with employers eagerly hiring new MBA grads as quickly as they become available. If you’ve ever thought about getting your MBA, there may never be a better time than now.
This guide introduces you to numerous quality online MBA programs in North Carolina currently offered by some of the top schools in the state. It tells you how to choose the right online MBA program for you, pay for your program, and tailor your studies to your interests through specialization. You’ll also learn what you can expect in the job market once you’ve earned your MBA.
Top Online MBA Programs in North Carolina in 2023
To help you start your search for an online MBA in North Carolina, we’ve ranked the very best programs available in the state are below. Elements like accreditation, affordability, learning flexibility, curriculum options, and access to useful student support services were used to determine the top programs for 2023. Explore each each school and see which one is the right fit for you.
North Carolina State University offers an asynchronous online MBA degree that will help students upskill, refine or explore other educational options. NCSU’s professional career team will help students meet their unique goals through coaching, company visits and networking events. The program is STEM-designated with a focus on business analytics, innovation and entrepreneurship, and leadership. Students can customize their degree with seven different certificate programs and a wide variety of elective courses. Online courses are delivered through podcasts, online lectures, videos, and online presentations. Students should expect to work with virtual teams during discussions and group projects.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 40
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1317/credit
- Mode: Online, On-Campus
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an MBA program for students with and without experience. Students will be guided through their program with personalized support from faculty and staff. The program is designed to help students define their vision, build their network and personal brand, and achieve their career goals. The MBA program is offered in two experience-based tracks: the Early Career Professional Program or the Experienced Professional Program for those with more than five years of professional work experience.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 45
- Length: 2.5 years
- Cost: $523/credit
- Mode: Online, On-Campus
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Catawba College offers an online MBA program for students looking to start a new career or advance in one they already have. This program is designed to help students develop personal strengths, build core business knowledge, sharpen analytical and critical thinking skills, and learn to lead high performing teams. Students can take the accelerated track and complete their degree in one year, or take the regular track and complete it in 2-1/2 years. The curriculum includes courses in managerial economics, management information systems, motivation and leadership, strategic management, conflict and negotiation, capital markets, and creativity and innovation.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 33
- Length: 1-2 yerars
- Cost: $599/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Appalachian State University offers an MBA degree through certified and internally reviewed online courses. Students will be prepared for careers with functional business knowledge, leadership and teamwork skills, analytical and critical thinking skills, responsiveness to domestic and global business environments, appreciation for diversity and multiculturalism as well as ethical and legal responsibilities, professional development and communication skills. Some courses include economics for decision-making, managerial accounting, organizational behavior and leadership, and executive skills. Students should note that some courses are synchronous, and online meetings take place between 6:00pm and 9:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: Approximately $403/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers an MBA degree online. The program focuses on gaining vital knowledge and skills in areas such as management, finance, and analytics. Students can customize their degree to their needs and interests with six concentrations. To be admitted into the program, students must have a bachelor’s degree and a 2.5 GPA or higher. The curriculum includes courses in finance, managerial accounting, business statistics, micro and macro economics, international business, strategic planning, managerial economics, management information systems, organizational behavior, quantitative methods, and marketing planning and strategy.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 36
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $268/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Popular Online MBA Specializations in North Carolina
A major feature of many MBA programs is a specialization or concentration that allows students to focus their studies on a specific area of business to make themselves more marketable to employers and better prepared for a specific career. Six of the most popular specializations currently offered by North Carolina online MBA programs are detailed below along with links to some of the programs offering them.
Business/Data Analytics
Students opting for the business/data analytics specialization are prepared to provide their companies with a greater competitive advantage through improved product distribution and supply chain management optimization. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in subjects like business analytics, data analytics, statistics, modeling techniques, big data and web intelligence, and analytics software applications.
Fayetteville State University (Online)
North Carolina Central University (Online)
Entrepreneurship
A very popular choice among MBA students today, the entrepreneur specialization is designed for MBA students intent on turning their own business concepts into viable and successful ventures. Students gain valuable knowledge and skills in entrepreneurial finance, marketing, intellectual property protection, short-term and long-term organizational decision making, conflict resolution, team building, and much more.
Fayetteville State University(Online)
University of North Carolina at Wilmington (Online)
Western Carolina University(Online; Campus)
Finance
One of the most popular of all MBA specializations, the finance specialization prepares graduates for careers in corporate finance, investment banking, private equity, venture capital, and more. Common course topics include investment management, securities analysis, financial institutions, financial statement analysis, healthcare finance, real estate investment, and global finance.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke (Online)
Wake Forest University(Online)
Healthcare Administration/Management
MBA graduates choosing this specialization are among the most sought after by employers in one of the hottest professional fields, especially in North Carolina, home of several major national healthcare services providers. Healthcare administration and management students gain skills in all facets of healthcare services leadership through courses in healthcare systems, healthcare analytics, human resources, finance, and legal and ethical issues in healthcare services.
East Carolina University (Online)
Leadership/Strategic Management
Students in leadership and strategic management specializations develop a full range of analytical, time management, organizational leadership, and client management skills. Course subjects include corporate strategy, business modeling, managerial decision-making, diversity leadership, innovation management, and more. Leadership specializations are a great choice for anyone seeking top executive and other senior leadership positions with corporations as well as those interested in becoming independent business consultants.
North Carolina Wesleyan University (Online)
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Online)
Wake Forest University (Online)
Marketing
A marketing concentration prepares students to manage all aspects of an organization’s marketing of its goods and services. Students gain an advanced understanding of advertising, branding, communications, consumer behavior, new technologies, and more. Course topics include marketing strategy and tools, digital marketing analytics, global marketing, healthcare marketing, brand management, and product packaging.
North Carolina Central University (Online)
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning your MBA Online in North Carolina
What is the average cost of an MBA program in North Carolina?
Tuition rates for online MBA programs in NC run approximately $18,000 to $60,000. That’s just for tuition alone, though. Your total program cost will be higher after adding in program fees, which can be substantial and sometimes double total program price tags. Several other common factors impact program cost. These include:
- Public vs. private schools: private colleges and universities tend to charge higher tuition rates than public ones.
- School reputation: tuition rates for UNC schools are significantly higher than those for other NC public schools.
- Study pace: per semester fees, for example, add up for part-time students.
- Resident status: some public schools charge a higher tuition rate to out-of-state residents.
In addition, tuition rates can be deceiving since total credit requirements vary by program. It’s also important to factor in all financial aid resources you’ll receive before calculating your program’s actual bottom line.
What does an MBA admissions process in North Carolina look like?
Admission and application requirements, including application deadlines, vary from program to program. However, you’ll find several requirements that are identical or similar to the following:
- Bachelor’s degree: Most North Carolina online MBA programs accept any major.
- Undergrad GPA: Commonly a minimum of 3.0, but minimums do vary.
- Current CV or resume.
- Letters of recommendation: Two or three are common.
- Personal essay and/or statement of purpose: Discusses the applicant’s academic and professional goals.
- Admission exam scores: The GMAT or GRE is typically required, but exceptions are common.
The admissions requirements for UNC Charlotte’s hybrid MBA offer a good example of the requirements for most North Carolina MBA online programs.
How quickly can I earn an online MBA in North Carolina?
It will depend on the specific program and, more importantly, your study pace. Many programs offer both full-time and part-time options, and many of those part-time options are open-ended to a point. Programs with generous completion times all have a stated maximum program length. For example, NC State at Raleigh’s Professional MBA program allows up to six years for students to complete all degree requirements. Full-time students can expect to complete their MBA studies in 18 to 24 months while part-time students typically take 33 to 38 months to earn their MBAs.
Is the GMAT required to get into an MBA program in North Carolina?
Most online MBA programs in NC require GMAT and/or GRE admission test scores as part of the admissions process. There are many exceptions, however. Examples of programs with no admission test score requirements include the NC State at Raleigh and UNC Greensboro programs and the MBA program at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
Programs that do require GMAT/GRE scores typically also provide waivers for applicants that meet stated criteria. For example, the online MBA program at UNC Chapel Hill waives the requirement for students with five years of full-time work experience, and the online MBA programs at UNC Pembroke waive the requirement for applicants with either a 3.0 or better undergrad GPA or a master’s degree.
In North Carolina, what is the ROI on an MBA vs a bachelor’s degree in business?
There are many ways to calculate ROI for an MBA degree. One way is to compare total income figures for an occupation typically held by someone with an MBA with those for an occupation that would typically require only a bachelor’s degree.
According to recent figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for marketing managers in North Carolina, a job often held by an MBA graduate, is $141,600. In comparison, the annual mean wage for a marketing specialist, a job that might be held by someone with only a business bachelor’s, is $71,510. That’s $70,000 more per year for marketing managers over marketing specialists in the state. After subtracting the cost of their MBA program, which we’ll put at $80,000 for illustration purposes, that means throughout a 40-year career the marketing manager would earn an additional $2.7 million – over 95% more – than the marketing specialist with only a bachelor’s degree.
What accreditations should I look for in an online MBA program in North Carolina?
Programmatic accreditation of MBA programs in the U.S. is provided by three accrediting agencies. The best known is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The other two are the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Most online MBA programs in NC are accredited by one of these three.
Regardless of programmatic accreditation, all the North Carolina colleges and universities offering online MBA programs mentioned in this guide are institutionally accredited by one of several U.S. Department of Education recognized independent regional and national agencies. Information on current institutional and MBA program accreditation status can typically be found on program webpages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA Students in North Carolina
Cost is a major concern for all college students, and North Carolina MBA students are no exception. Fortunately, there are several financial aid resources available to qualifying North Carolina MBA online students, including the types you’re probably already aware of, such as scholarships, grants, work study opportunities, assistantships, employer tuition reimbursement, and the ever-popular student loan like those available through the Federal Student Aid program. Visit OMD’s financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement guides to learn more about funding your online MBA program in NC.
Here are examples of five scholarships offered by North Carolina schools specifically for their MBA students:
Breazeale-King Professional Development Award
Salary Potential for MBA Grads in North Carolina
Salaries for MBA graduates in the U.S. and around the world are strong and getting stronger. For example, PayScale puts the current average base salary for MBA holders in the U.S. at $92,000, which only includes the base salary and not other common forms of compensation like bonuses. The chart below gives you a better idea of what North Carolina professionals with MBAs earn. Keep in mind, though, that how much you’ll make depends on several factors, such as where you live in the state, your actual job title, and how many years you’ve worked as a business professional.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
24.0% |
2,030 |
$152,040 |
|
Financial Managers |
24.6% |
1,840 |
$161,720 |
|
General and Operations Managers |
15.5% |
6,390 |
$117,130 |
|
Marketing Managers |
15.4% |
890 |
$141,600 |
|
Medical and Health Services Managers |
34.0% |
1,300 |
$121,430 |