BOONE, N.C. — Dynamic curricula, a commitment to teaching and outstanding student engagement opportunities are noted highlights of Appalachian State University’s Walker College of Business, which has been reaccredited for a five-year period by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB).

For more than a century, AACSB accreditation has been synonymous with the highest standards in business education. Today, a total of 981 institutions across 60 countries and territories have earned AACSB accreditation in business.

After it is initially accredited, an institution participates in a five-year continuous improvement peer review to maintain high quality and extend its accreditation. App State has maintained the distinction since 1976.

“I am proud that AACSB has extended our accreditation, which demonstrates that our curriculum and faculty meet the highest standards in business education,” said Walker College of Business Dean Sandra Vannoy. “Our accreditation signals to students and employers that App State business graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers, and indicates to our community members that our college will make a positive impact locally and globally.”

The extension of accreditation covers the Walker College of Business’ undergraduate business programs, as well as its graduate programs in business administration, accounting and applied data analytics.

In its recommendations to extend accreditation, the AACSB’s peer review team noted the college’s dynamic curricula, the faculty’s commitment to teaching and a culture that deeply values learner success. The team also recognized Walker College’s strong cocurricular programs, outstanding internship experiences, robust study abroad program and ample opportunity for student engagement with the regional business community.

Achieving accreditation is a process of rigorous internal focus, engagement with an AACSB-assigned mentor and peer-reviewed evaluation. During this multiyear path, schools focus on developing and implementing a plan to align with AACSB’s accreditation standards. These standards require excellence in strategic management, curricular innovation, student success, highly qualified faculty and staff, teaching and learning, scholarly achievements and societal impact.

“AACSB congratulates each institution on its achievement,” said Stephanie M. Bryant, AACSB executive vice president and global chief accreditation officer. “Every AACSB-accredited school has demonstrated a focus on excellence in all areas, including teaching, research, curricula development and student learning. The intense peer-review process exemplifies their commitment to quality business education.”

The Walker College of Business’ next accreditation review is scheduled for the 2027–28 academic year.

What do you think?

Share your feedback on this story.

Walker College of Business

The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact our community, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling more than 4,000 undergraduates in 11 majors, Walker College has the highest enrollment of full-time undergraduate students in the University of North Carolina System, and more than 250 graduate students are enrolled in the college’s three master’s programs. App State’s Walker College is accredited by AACSB International — the premier global accrediting body for business schools.

Learn more

App State Walker College of Business, MBA named ‘bests’ for 2022–23, 2023–24

The Princeton Review, U.S. News, CEO Magazine and Fortune magazine affirm App State’s position as a business education leader

May 8, 2023

The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report, CEO Magazine and Fortune magazine have named App State’s Walker College of Business and its Master of Business Administration program among the best in the nation, Southeast and world for 2022–23 and 2023–24.

Read the story

About the Walker College of Business

The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact their communities, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling nearly 5,000 students, including more than 4,500 undergraduates across 11 majors, the Walker College of Business has the highest full-time undergraduate enrollment in the University of North Carolina System. App State’s Walker College is accredited by AACSB International — the premier global accrediting body for business schools. Learn more about App State’s Walker College of Business at https://business.appstate.edu.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.