Montreat College MBA Program

Founded in 1916, Montreat College stands as a beacon of Christian higher education in North Carolina, United States. For over a century, the institution has been deeply rooted in its mission to integrate faith and learning, preparing students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and service. As a Christ-centered liberal arts college, Montreat embraces the transformative power of education not only to prepare students for successful careers but also to develop their character and worldview. One of the clearest examples of this mission in action is its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, which fuses rigorous academic study with ethical and faith-based leadership principles.

Located in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Montreat College offers a serene and inspiring environment for study and reflection. But beyond its natural beauty, the college provides an academic framework that is modern, relevant, and responsive to the challenges of today’s global marketplace. Its MBA program is a prime example of this commitment—designed for working professionals, grounded in Christian values, and oriented toward real-world success.

A Curriculum That Equips Leaders for Real-World Impact

Montreat College’s MBA program is specifically designed to serve professionals who already hold undergraduate degrees and who seek to enhance their knowledge, broaden their leadership capacity, and pursue new career opportunities. The program is structured to accommodate the busy schedules of adult learners, offering flexibility and accessibility while maintaining the highest academic standards.

At the core of Montreat’s MBA curriculum is an integrated approach to business education. Students are not simply trained in isolated business functions—they are taught to understand the interrelatedness of core areas such as Economics, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Management, and Quantitative Methods. This holistic framework allows students to see the bigger picture and develop strategic thinking skills essential for organizational leadership.

The curriculum is deeply analytical and problem-solving oriented. Courses are designed to sharpen critical thinking and decision-making abilities, ensuring that graduates can effectively assess business challenges, formulate innovative solutions, and drive results. Whether managing financial portfolios, leading cross-functional teams, or launching entrepreneurial ventures, Montreat MBA graduates are prepared to take decisive action rooted in strong foundational knowledge.

But what truly sets Montreat’s MBA program apart is its faith-based perspective. Business decisions are examined not just through a financial lens but also through ethical, moral, and spiritual frameworks. Students are encouraged to explore how biblical principles can guide leadership, shape corporate responsibility, and influence business culture. The result is a unique learning environment where faith and business co-exist in harmony, producing graduates who are not only competent professionals but also compassionate and principled leaders.

Designed for the Working Professional

Montreat College understands the demands placed on adult learners, many of whom are balancing careers, family responsibilities, and community involvement. To support these individuals, the MBA program is structured with flexibility at its core. Courses are offered in formats that accommodate the schedules of working professionals, including online and hybrid options that allow students to study from virtually anywhere.

This flexibility does not compromise academic rigor. The program maintains high standards of excellence while ensuring accessibility and adaptability for diverse learners. Students are able to progress at a pace that works for them, typically completing the MBA in as little as two years depending on their course load and schedule.

Montreat’s faculty play a vital role in supporting student success. Professors are not only academically qualified—with extensive credentials in their fields—but also experienced practitioners who bring real-world insights into the classroom. Many have worked in corporate, nonprofit, or entrepreneurial settings, and they integrate these experiences into their teaching. Moreover, they are committed mentors who are available to guide, challenge, and encourage students throughout their academic journey.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

Montreat College’s commitment to quality is affirmed through its accreditation by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). This regional accreditation ensures that the college meets or exceeds rigorous standards of academic excellence, institutional effectiveness, and student support. It also affirms the transferability of credits and the credibility of degrees earned at Montreat.

Additionally, the business programs, including the MBA, are accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). This specialized accreditation reflects the quality and relevance of Montreat’s business curriculum, emphasizing outcomes-based education and continuous improvement. IACBE-accredited programs are recognized for preparing students with the knowledge and skills demanded by today’s employers while also emphasizing ethical business practices and leadership integrity.

These accreditations serve as a quality assurance to prospective students, employers, and stakeholders, indicating that Montreat College provides a rigorous and trustworthy educational experience aligned with national and international standards.

Recognition and Rankings: A Reputation Built on Integrity

Montreat College’s academic excellence and commitment to student development have earned it significant recognition in national rankings and reviews. In the 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report, the college was listed in Tier 2 in the “Regional Universities (South)” category, acknowledging its growing academic reputation and regional impact.

Further cementing its status as a quality institution, The Princeton Review selected Montreat as one of the "Best in the Southeast" colleges. This recognition is especially meaningful as it is based in part on student feedback about their classroom experiences, campus life, faculty engagement, and overall satisfaction. Being one of only 133 institutions in the Southeast to receive this designation in the 2011 “Best Colleges” list reflects Montreat’s ability to provide a high-impact, student-centered education.

The college has also demonstrated a consistent commitment to serving nontraditional students, including members of the armed forces. Montreat has been recognized as a “Military Friendly School” by Military Advanced Education magazine. This designation is awarded to institutions that provide exceptional support to military students and veterans, including benefits such as academic counseling, credit for military training, and scholarships designed specifically for service members.

Such honors and designations reflect Montreat’s holistic approach to education—one that recognizes academic achievement, values community service, and supports students from all walks of life.

Faith at the Core of Business Education

A defining characteristic of Montreat College—and its MBA program in particular—is its Christ-centered mission. The college does not treat faith as an extracurricular aspect of student life but as a foundational component of its identity. In the MBA program, this faith integration is seen in how ethical issues are addressed, how leadership is framed, and how students are encouraged to think about their role in the world.

Students are challenged to explore questions of purpose, stewardship, and justice within the business context. What does it mean to lead with integrity in a corporate environment? How can one promote sustainability and equity while still achieving profitability? How should Christian principles influence decision-making, organizational culture, and stakeholder relationships? These questions are explored not only through theological discussion but also through case studies, simulations, and real-world applications.

This unique integration of faith and learning prepares students to become not just leaders in their companies, but also moral agents in their communities. It inspires a kind of leadership that is humble, courageous, and service-oriented. For those who seek to live out their faith in the marketplace, Montreat offers an educational environment where spiritual formation and professional development go hand in hand.

A Supportive Learning Environment Rooted in Community

Montreat College is known for its close-knit, supportive learning environment. Unlike large institutions where students may feel like just a number, Montreat fosters a culture of connection, care, and collaboration. Small class sizes mean that students receive individualized attention and develop meaningful relationships with faculty and peers.

This sense of community is vital in the MBA program, where students often face the dual pressures of work and academic life. Whether in the classroom or through virtual platforms, students engage in lively discussions, group projects, and peer mentoring. They benefit from shared experiences and diverse perspectives, forming bonds that often extend well beyond graduation.

Moreover, Montreat’s commitment to whole-person education extends to its support services. From academic advising and career counseling to spiritual support and alumni networking, the college provides a comprehensive system designed to help students succeed at every stage of their journey.

Career Advancement and Lifelong Impact

The ultimate goal of the Montreat MBA is not just academic achievement but real-world transformation. Graduates emerge from the program ready to take on leadership roles in public and private sectors, equipped with the tools to make strategic decisions, manage teams, and influence change.

Employers value the practical skills and ethical grounding that Montreat MBA graduates bring to the table. Whether entering corporate leadership, nonprofit management, entrepreneurship, or consulting, alumni are known for their ability to integrate values with results. The emphasis on analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration ensures that graduates can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace with confidence.

Montreat also maintains strong connections with the regional business community and beyond. This network, along with personalized career support, helps students identify job opportunities, develop resumes and interview skills, and transition into new roles. The college’s growing alumni base further serves as a resource for mentoring, collaboration, and continued professional development.

Conclusion: A Mission-Driven MBA for Today’s Purposeful Professionals

Montreat College’s MBA program is much more than a pathway to career advancement—it is a journey of personal growth, intellectual challenge, and spiritual enrichment. Rooted in Christian values, the program offers a rare combination of academic excellence, practical relevance, and ethical focus. With a flexible design for working professionals, nationally recognized faculty, and a curriculum that integrates faith and business, Montreat delivers a transformative experience for students who want to lead with purpose.

From its beautiful setting in the mountains of North Carolina to its global-minded, faith-driven approach to business education, Montreat College stands as a unique and compelling choice for those seeking an MBA that not only opens doors but also shapes lives. For professionals looking to advance their careers while remaining true to their convictions, Montreat offers not just a degree, but a calling fulfilled.