Western Carolina University Launches Fully Online MBA Program
Today, the College of Business at Western Carolina University moved its Master of Business Administration Program to a fully online format providing flexibility for career focused students and working professionals. The program can be completed in as little as 12 months, full time or on a part-time path. There is no GMAT or GRE admission required, the program is designed to be accessible to a wide range of applicants seeking to advance their careers in business, government or the nonprofit sector, said Mariano Garrido-López, director of graduate programs in WCU’s College of Business.
“This transition to a fully online format reflects our commitment as a higher education institution to meeting students where they are,” said Garrido-López. “We’re offering a highly flexible, high quality, immersive and affordable MBA experience that prepares graduates to lead in today’s dynamic business environment. For example, an in-state full-time student can now earn an MBA for less than $9,000, which we are thrilled to offer.”
Students from all undergraduate majors are invited to enroll in the program. The 36-credit hour curriculum including 24-credit core and 12 elective credits, with no prerequisites required.
WCU is consistently ranked among the top providers of online education by U.S. News & World Report. The College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business —a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide.
Students can tailor their degree by selecting electives in a single subject area to create a specialization or by earning a stackable graduate certificate as part of their degree, providing additional credentials that enhance their professional profile, Garrido-López said. WCU currently offers three different graduate certificates: project management, entrepreneurship and innovation leadership.
WCU’s MBA emphasizes experiential and immersive learning, he said. Courses combine lectures with hands-on projects, including consulting engagements to solve real-world challenges. “This approach ensures students graduate ‘Business Ready®,’ equipped with practical skills and strategic insight,” Garrido-López said.
The program is taught by faculty with industry experience, doctoral credentials and active research portfolios. Areas of instruction include business analytics, accounting, economics, marketing, operations, finance, human resource management and strategic management.
To learn more, visit the MBA program website and download the brochure, or email businessgrad@wcu.edu.
