Catawba College: Excellence in Business Education

Founded in 1851, Catawba College stands as one of the oldest and most respected private institutions in the southern piedmont region of North Carolina. With a rich history spanning over 170 years, Catawba has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its students and the demands of the modern workforce. Today, it is a coeducational, residential college known for delivering high-quality academic programs, particularly in the field of business. The institution's commitment to personalized education, student engagement, and career readiness has earned it a strong reputation both regionally and nationally.

This guide will explore the many facets of Catawba College’s business education offerings, its accreditations, rankings, and the variety of academic pathways available to students who wish to pursue careers in accounting, marketing, management, economics, and more.

The Ketner School of Business: A Hub of Innovation and Excellence

At the heart of Catawba College's business programs is the Ketner School of Business. Named in honor of Ralph W. Ketner, the co-founder of Food Lion and a generous benefactor, the school reflects the values of innovation, entrepreneurship, and service to the community. The Ketner School of Business offers students a variety of academic options that are both flexible and career-focused.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business Administration can choose from several concentrations, including Accounting, Economics, General Management, Information Systems, and Marketing. These options allow students to tailor their education according to their interests and long-term career goals. Each concentration equips students with both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing global business environment.

Additionally, the Ketner School of Business provides a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Accounting for students seeking a more specialized focus in the field of financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. This program is ideal for students who are considering becoming Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or pursuing careers in public or corporate accounting.

The school's mission emphasizes preparing students for successful personal, professional, and business careers. It achieves this by combining rigorous coursework with experiential learning opportunities such as internships, case competitions, study abroad programs, and engagement with local and regional businesses.

Minors and Interdisciplinary Opportunities

In addition to its major degree programs, the Ketner School of Business offers a variety of minors that enhance students' academic profiles and broaden their career opportunities. Students from across Catawba College, whether they are majoring in communication, environmental science, or psychology, may choose to minor in Business Administration, Economics, or Information Systems. These minors provide a strong foundation in business principles and are particularly valuable in today’s interdisciplinary workforce, where knowledge of business operations is a competitive asset in virtually every industry.

Students who combine a business minor with a major in another discipline often find they are more versatile and better equipped to pursue leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, healthcare, government, or entrepreneurial ventures. The minors also serve as excellent preparation for graduate school, including MBA programs.

Accreditation and Academic Integrity

Catawba College is fully accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). This accreditation ensures that the college maintains high academic standards, offers quality programs, and provides effective student services. Accreditation also means that Catawba students are eligible for federal financial aid and that their credits and degrees are recognized by employers and other institutions of higher education across the country.

The Ketner School of Business, as part of the broader institution, adheres to these rigorous standards. Its programs are designed to be challenging, current, and aligned with the needs of the modern business world. The school frequently reviews its curriculum to ensure that it meets industry trends and employer expectations. Faculty members bring a mix of academic credentials and professional experience, creating a learning environment that is both intellectually stimulating and practically relevant.

Rankings and National Recognition

Catawba College has received numerous accolades over the years, affirming its status as a high-quality educational institution. In the 2013 edition of "Best Colleges" published by U.S. News & World Report, Catawba was ranked 17th among 107 Best Regional Colleges in the South. This ranking highlights the college’s academic strength, student satisfaction, and overall value.

That same year, The Princeton Review included Catawba in its prestigious guide, The Best 377 Colleges. This listing is based on student surveys and emphasizes not only academic quality but also campus culture, faculty engagement, and student life. Being included in this guide reflects Catawba's commitment to fostering a well-rounded and supportive learning environment.

In 2012, Forbes magazine ranked Catawba College among “America’s 650 Top Colleges,” placing it 542nd nationwide. More impressively, it was one of only 19 North Carolina colleges and universities—public or private—to be included on the list. This ranking was based on a variety of factors including student satisfaction, postgraduate success, academic quality, and graduation rates.

Earlier, in the 2008 edition of "America’s Best Colleges" by U.S. News & World Report, Catawba was recognized as one of the 320 best baccalaureate colleges in the nation. These repeated honors demonstrate the institution’s consistent commitment to excellence over time.

Career Preparation and Outcomes

Catawba College places a strong emphasis on preparing students for life after graduation. The Ketner School of Business integrates real-world applications into its programs to ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also professionally ready. Students have access to career services that help them with resume building, interview preparation, networking, and job search strategies.

Internships are a vital component of the business curriculum. Many students intern with local and regional businesses, gaining valuable experience and making connections that often lead to full-time employment. Because of the college’s strong ties with the business community in North Carolina and beyond, students have access to a wide range of internship and job placement opportunities.

Moreover, Catawba’s alumni network is an invaluable resource. Graduates of the Ketner School of Business have gone on to successful careers in banking, financial services, accounting firms, marketing agencies, nonprofit organizations, and large corporations. Some alumni have even launched their own businesses, attributing their success to the strong foundation they received at Catawba.

Campus Life and the Learning Environment

While academic excellence is a cornerstone of Catawba College, the student experience extends far beyond the classroom. The college’s residential setting allows students to engage fully in campus life, fostering a close-knit and supportive community. This environment encourages collaboration, leadership, and personal growth—all essential qualities for a successful career in business.

Students in the Ketner School of Business benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and access to modern facilities. Professors are approachable and invested in their students’ success, often serving as mentors, advisors, and career coaches.

Extracurricular activities, including business clubs, honor societies, and student organizations, allow students to apply their skills outside of class. Events like business plan competitions, speaker series, and community service projects further enrich the educational experience and prepare students to become ethical, responsible leaders.

Conclusion

Catawba College offers a strong and comprehensive education in business through its Ketner School of Business. With a variety of degree options, experienced faculty, personalized learning, and a commitment to career preparation, Catawba provides students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive global economy.

Its impressive national rankings and accreditations speak to its dedication to academic quality and student success. Whether a student wants to specialize in accounting, explore marketing, or understand the dynamics of economics and management, Catawba offers the flexibility, support, and resources to turn their ambitions into reality.

In a world where business is constantly evolving, Catawba College stands out as an institution that not only keeps pace with change but prepares its students to lead it. For any student considering a future in business, finance, or entrepreneurship, Catawba is a place where that journey can begin with confidence.