Master of Business Administration


Are you ready for the next step in your career? The College of Charleston is here to help. Our accelerated, one-year MBA program offers its graduates an outstanding return on their investment.

U.S. News & World Report 2021 Edition has recognized the College of Charleston MBA as the:

  • #1 in the country for its job placement rate three months after graduation.
  • top 100 best full-time MBA program in the nation.
  • most affordable full-time MBA program in the nation, ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
  • highest percentage of female students in a full-time MBA program, ranked nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
  • top 10 public, one-year MBA program in the nation, ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

But our outstanding employment stats are just the beginning.

Our MBA program is one of 22 master’s degree programs offered by the Graduate School of the College of Charleston.

Why Get Your MBA at the College of Charleston?


The Charleston MBA delivers unique investment value to our students. Our accelerated program condenses a traditional two-year program into one rigorous year, ensuring that you'll not only save a year of tuition and fees, but also re-enter the workforce quickly and graduate with critical business knowledge. That's why we rank No. 1 for job placement.

In a time of rising tuition for so many MBA programs, the Charleston MBA stands out as an affordable program. Compared to our competitors, it truly is one of the best values in business education. There is no distinction in price between in-state and out-of-state residents. Everyone pays the same affordable tuition. And a 100% program retention rate speaks for itself.

View Curriculum

Careers & Outcomes


Our MBA program prepares you for a wide range of roles and industries. The average starting salary for MBAs is $70,314.

Top employers include local, region, national and international companies. 

  • Boeing
  • Bank of America
  • PwC
  • SIB Fixed Cost Reduction
  • Siemens
  • Conrex
  • Bear Cognition
  • KOA
  • Permanens Capital
  • Aon

The MBA Career Development Office works solely with College of Charleston MBA graduate students and alumni. Services include:

  • one-on-one advising.
  • resume and cover letter reviews.
  • tools for developing career vision and strategy.
  • career skills workshops.
  • mock interviews.
  • industry seminars.
  • company site visits.
  • online student resume books.
  • company information sessions.
  • recruiting events.
  • job postings.
"What attracted me to the MBA program is the support we get through the mentorship and executive coach program. I find this to be an invaluable experience that will enhance my MBA journey.” —Rachel Bruce

How to Apply


The entire application process is online. The documents outlined below are required components of the application. A file is not complete until all documents have been submitted and processed, so read carefully and prepare your application materials in advance of applying.
  • Dates & Deadlines

    The MBA program’s admission cycle has three deadlines. Qualified students will be invited to interview with members of the director of admissions and other members of the MBA program staff. Students are encouraged to apply when their application is strongest. Only completed applications with all required documents will be considered for interviews.

    For a student to be considered for merit-based aid and graduate assistantships, the application must be submitted by the Round 2, February 1 deadline. After Round 3, all applicants are reviewed on a rolling admissions basis based on space availability.

    • Priority/Round 1 application deadline is October 1 and decisions are in by December 1.
    • The Round 2 application deadline is February 1 and decisions are in by March 1.
    • The Round 3 application deadline is March 1 and decisions are rolling.
  • Application Process

    Once you have created an account, you will be able to access the application form. You do not need to complete the form in one sitting. Here's everything you need to apply.

    1. Transcript(s) with university-level coursework
      • Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for consideration of admission.*
    2. Standardized test scores (optional)
      • Standardized test scores are not required. If a student chooses to submit scores, the GMAT exam is preferred.
      • Self-reported test scores must be accompanied with an unofficial student score report submitted in the application or an official score report sent directly to the university.*
    3. One-page resume
      • An updated copy of your resume outlining educational and professional experience is required. For current undergraduate students, please also list internships, community involvement and leadership, if applicable.
    4. Cover letter
      • Use this opportunity to write a well-crafted, brief review of your background, why you plan to pursue an MBA at the College and your career goals post-graduation. There is no word limit.
    5. Reference list
      • Three professional and/or academic references must be provided including their full name and contact information. References may be contacted by the program during the admissions process.
      • While not required, a recommendation letter can be submitted directly from the recommender to the program by emailing mba@cofc.edu with the applicant's name in the subject line.

    Submit all required materials as early as possible to allow time for documents to be received and processed by the deadline. Received documents are not returnable or transferable.

    *If admitted, you will be required to provide all official transcripts and test scores directly from the university or test agency.

  • Admission Criteria

    We accept candidates with diverse undergraduate degrees, including business, humanities, social sciences, the arts and engineering. The program looks for talented, motivated individuals who will succeed academically. Our MBA cohort members are expected to contribute to a dynamic classroom with team-based learning and participate fully in the program. While professional work experience is encouraged, it is not a requirement for admission.