Poole College of Management & Rankings

The Jenkins Graduate Programs in the Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University have established themselves as a leader in graduate business education, distinguished by their commitment to applied learning, analytics, and innovation. Designed for both working professionals and recent graduates, the programs provide students with the tools, insights, and experiences necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and data-driven global economy.

Recognized nationally and internationally, the Jenkins Graduate Programs foster an environment that blends academic rigor with real-world application. Students are not merely passive learners but active participants in experiential education that prepares them for leadership roles across industries. Whether studying on campus or online, students in the Jenkins programs benefit from an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive community that promotes intellectual curiosity and professional development.

The Jenkins Graduate Programs include several flagship offerings: the Master of Accounting (MAC), the Master of Business Administration (MBA), and the Master of Management with concentrations in Marketing Analytics (MMA) and Risk and Analytics (MRA). Each program is tailored to meet the evolving demands of modern business, providing specialized knowledge and practical experience that enable graduates to excel in their chosen fields.

This guide explores the mission, structure, curriculum, rankings, and accreditation of the Jenkins Graduate Programs, as well as their impact on students’ careers and the broader business community. It highlights how the Poole College of Management integrates innovation, analytics, and sustainability into its programs, creating a model of graduate business education that is both practical and forward-looking.

The Poole College of Management: A Hub of Innovation and Applied Learning

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, the Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University is a center of excellence for business education, research, and industry collaboration. The college embodies NC State’s motto—“Think and Do”—by fostering a culture of innovation and applied learning. This approach aligns with the university’s broader commitment to producing graduates who can translate academic knowledge into actionable solutions.

The Jenkins Graduate Programs within the Poole College of Management exemplify this philosophy. Each program combines theoretical foundations with hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between academia and industry. Students engage with real-world business challenges through case studies, consulting projects, internships, and partnerships with leading companies.

The college’s location in one of the most dynamic regions for technology, research, and entrepreneurship in the United States enhances its relevance and impact. Proximity to major corporations, startups, and research institutions provides students with unparalleled access to networking, collaboration, and career opportunities. Through these connections, Jenkins students gain exposure to diverse industries—from finance and accounting to biotechnology, data analytics, and supply chain management.

The Jenkins Master of Accounting (MAC) Program

The Jenkins Master of Accounting (MAC) program is one of the most respected accounting graduate programs in the region, known for its academic rigor and professional relevance. Designed to develop both technical expertise and strategic thinking, the program prepares students for leadership roles in public accounting, corporate finance, government, and non-profit organizations.

The MAC curriculum provides a broad understanding of accounting and business practices, emphasizing not only mastery of accounting principles but also an appreciation of the ethical, regulatory, and strategic dimensions of financial reporting. Students gain in-depth knowledge of auditing, taxation, and financial analysis while developing the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to navigate complex financial environments.

One of the defining features of the program is its flexibility through two distinct career tracks: Public Accounting and Business & Industry. The public accounting track prepares students for careers in auditing, assurance, and taxation with major accounting firms, while the business and industry track focuses on managerial accounting, financial reporting, and strategic planning within corporations and governmental organizations.

The MAC program also provides comprehensive CPA exam preparation, ensuring that graduates are well-positioned to achieve professional certification. Faculty members, many of whom have extensive industry experience, offer personalized mentorship and support throughout the process.

Graduates of the Jenkins MAC program are highly sought after by employers due to their strong analytical skills, ethical grounding, and ability to integrate financial insight into broader business strategy. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students graduate not only with technical proficiency but also with the leadership and communication skills essential for success in the accounting profession.

The Jenkins Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program

The Jenkins Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is a cornerstone of the Poole College of Management and a prime example of NC State’s commitment to practical, hands-on education. Designed for both full-time students and working professionals, the MBA program provides a transformative experience that equips individuals with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to lead in dynamic business environments.

The program’s structure allows students to tailor their education to their career goals through a variety of concentration and certificate options. These include Business Analytics, Business Leadership, Business Sustainability, Marketing, Finance, Operations and Supply Chain Management, and Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialization. Each concentration enables students to develop specialized expertise while maintaining a strong foundation in core business disciplines.

The Jenkins MBA is distinguished by its hands-on learning approach. Students engage directly with real-world challenges through consulting projects, simulations, and internships. The curriculum emphasizes immediate applicability, meaning that students can implement lessons learned in class in their professional roles almost immediately. This applied orientation not only enhances learning outcomes but also strengthens graduates’ ability to deliver value to their organizations.

In addition to technical and analytical proficiency, the program emphasizes leadership development and ethical decision-making. Courses in organizational behavior, negotiation, and strategy prepare students to lead diverse teams, manage change, and make responsible business decisions. The integration of sustainability and social responsibility into the curriculum reflects the college’s commitment to preparing leaders who understand the broader implications of business decisions.

The Jenkins MBA’s reputation for quality has been confirmed by national rankings and accolades from reputable organizations such as Bloomberg Businessweek, U.S. News & World Report, and the Aspen Institute. Its blend of flexibility, rigor, and real-world relevance has made it one of the most attractive MBA programs for both full-time and part-time students seeking career advancement or transition.

The Jenkins Master of Management, Marketing Analytics (MMA) Program

In an era dominated by data-driven decision-making, the Jenkins Master of Management, Marketing Analytics (MMA) program offers students advanced training in harnessing data for strategic marketing insights. The program is designed for professionals who wish to deepen their understanding of consumer behavior, market segmentation, and predictive analytics to drive growth and optimize marketing investments.

Students in the MMA program learn to translate complex data into actionable insights that inform marketing strategy and improve return on investment (ROI). The curriculum combines marketing theory with quantitative analysis, teaching students how to use tools such as data visualization, econometrics, and machine learning to identify trends and opportunities.

By integrating technology and analytics into marketing education, the MMA program equips graduates with a skill set that is increasingly in demand across industries. Businesses today invest heavily in analytics to enhance customer engagement, streamline operations, and maximize profitability. Jenkins graduates, therefore, emerge as valuable assets capable of bridging the gap between data science and strategic marketing.

The program also emphasizes real-world application. Students work on live projects with industry partners, analyzing real data sets and presenting recommendations to executives. This practical exposure reinforces their ability to make data-driven decisions and communicate insights effectively to non-technical audiences.

Ultimately, the Jenkins MMA program represents a forward-thinking response to the digital transformation of marketing. It prepares graduates to lead in an environment where analytical literacy and strategic creativity are essential for business success.

The Jenkins Master of Management, Risk and Analytics (MRA) Program

The Jenkins Master of Management, Risk and Analytics (MRA) program addresses the growing need for professionals who can manage and mitigate risk across enterprise operations. In an increasingly volatile global economy, organizations face risks ranging from cybersecurity threats and financial instability to regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability. The MRA program equips students with the analytical and managerial tools to identify, assess, and respond to these challenges.

The curriculum integrates data analytics and enterprise risk management, providing a holistic understanding of how risks can impact organizational strategy and performance. Students learn to apply quantitative models and analytical frameworks to evaluate risks, make informed decisions, and develop mitigation strategies that protect organizational assets and reputation.

Like other Jenkins programs, the MRA emphasizes hands-on learning. Students engage in simulations, case studies, and partnerships with industry organizations to gain practical experience in managing real-world risk scenarios. This experiential approach ensures that graduates are not only adept at theoretical modeling but also capable of applying their skills in dynamic and uncertain environments.

Graduates of the MRA program are well-prepared for careers in risk management, consulting, financial services, and analytics. Their ability to combine technical expertise with strategic insight makes them valuable contributors to organizations that prioritize proactive risk management and data-informed decision-making.

Rankings and National Recognition

The excellence of the Jenkins Graduate Programs in the Poole College of Management has been consistently recognized by national and international ranking organizations. These accolades reflect the programs’ commitment to academic quality, professional relevance, and student outcomes.

In 2012, Bloomberg Businessweek ranked the full-time Jenkins MBA program 63rd in the United States in its biennial assessment of top business schools. This ranking underscored the program’s growing reputation for delivering high-impact education and producing graduates who excel in leadership and innovation.

The part-time MBA program achieved even greater recognition in 2011, when Bloomberg Businessweek placed it 30th nationwide and 5th among part-time MBA programs in the South. The program also ranked 23rd in the country for post-graduation outcomes—reflecting the high percentage of students who received promotions—and 18th based on average pay increases following completion of the program.

Earlier, in 2009, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Jenkins MBA program 59th in its “America’s Best Graduate Schools” edition. This recognition further solidified the program’s position among the nation’s most respected business schools.

The Jenkins MBA also gained recognition from the Aspen Institute in its 2007–2008 edition of Beyond Grey Pinstripes, a ranking that highlights MBA programs integrating social and environmental issues into their curricula. This distinction underscores the program’s leadership in promoting sustainability and ethical responsibility within business education.

These rankings reflect more than just prestige—they represent the tangible outcomes of the Poole College of Management’s dedication to student success, professional advancement, and societal impact.

Accreditation: Upholding the Highest Standards of Business Education

The Jenkins MBA program and other graduate programs within the Poole College of Management are accredited by AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). This accreditation represents the gold standard of quality in business education and is earned by fewer than five percent of business schools worldwide.

AACSB accreditation ensures that the Jenkins Graduate Programs meet rigorous standards of excellence across multiple dimensions, including faculty qualifications, curriculum relevance, student learning outcomes, and continuous improvement. It also signifies that the programs are aligned with the needs of the global business community and that graduates possess the skills and knowledge required for leadership in diverse organizational contexts.

For students, AACSB accreditation provides confidence that they are receiving a world-class education that is both respected by employers and recognized internationally. For employers, it guarantees that Jenkins graduates have been trained in a program that meets the highest standards of academic and professional integrity.

The Poole College’s ongoing commitment to maintaining this accreditation reflects its dedication to delivering programs that combine intellectual rigor with real-world impact.

Career Services and Student Success

An essential component of the Jenkins Graduate Programs’ reputation for excellence is their outstanding career services and student outcomes. The Poole College of Management invests heavily in professional development resources, offering personalized coaching, workshops, and networking events that connect students with leading employers.

Students receive guidance in refining their career goals, preparing for interviews, and building professional networks. The college’s strong ties with corporate partners across industries—from technology and finance to healthcare and consulting—ensure that students have access to a wide range of career opportunities.

Graduates of the Jenkins programs enjoy strong placement rates and rapid career advancement. Many achieve significant salary increases and promotions within months of completing their degrees. Others successfully transition into new industries or entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging the skills and confidence gained from their Jenkins education.

A Supportive and Inclusive Learning Community

Beyond academic and professional achievements, the Jenkins Graduate Programs are distinguished by their supportive and inclusive community. The Poole College of Management fosters an environment where diversity of thought, background, and experience is celebrated. This inclusivity enhances collaboration and prepares students to work effectively in multicultural and global business environments.

Faculty, staff, and students form a close-knit community where mentorship and mutual support are paramount. Online students are fully integrated into this community through virtual networking, collaborative projects, and access to career resources, ensuring that distance learners receive the same quality of experience as their on-campus counterparts.

This culture of inclusion and collaboration not only enriches the student experience but also strengthens the college’s commitment to developing leaders who embody empathy, respect, and social responsibility.

Conclusion

The Jenkins Graduate Programs in the Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University exemplify the university’s mission to unite innovation, analytics, and applied learning in pursuit of excellence. Through programs such as the Master of Accounting, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Management with concentrations in Marketing Analytics and Risk and Analytics, the college prepares graduates to lead in an increasingly complex, data-driven, and interconnected world.

The Jenkins programs’ emphasis on real-world application, supported by outstanding career services, strong industry partnerships, and a diverse academic community, ensures that graduates leave not only with degrees but with the confidence and competence to drive meaningful change.

Accredited by the AACSB, ranked among the nation’s best by organizations such as Bloomberg Businessweek, U.S. News & World Report, and the Aspen Institute, the Jenkins Graduate Programs stand as a model of academic excellence and professional relevance.

Ultimately, the Poole College of Management continues to redefine what it means to prepare business leaders for the future—combining analytical rigor with ethical insight, innovation with inclusivity, and theory with practice. Through its Jenkins Graduate Programs, it empowers students not merely to succeed in their careers, but to shape the future of business itself.