Kennesaw State University Coles College of Business

Program Overview

The salary numbers at Kennesaw State Coles stop people mid-scroll. An average starting salary of $113,000 from a program charging $15,000 per year in-state tuition doesn't compute by normal MBA math. But it makes sense when you factor in two things: the Atlanta metro is home to 17 Fortune 500 headquarters, and Coles has built career services that punch well above its ranking.

The 97-student class is large for this tier, which creates a broader network. The WebMBA (online) option is nationally recognized, and the evening format serves Atlanta's working professional population. Kennesaw sits 30 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta, close enough to commute to corporate offices while avoiding city traffic for classes. The program's value proposition is simple: Atlanta employer access at Georgia public university prices.

Culture & Community

Kennesaw State is young and growing. The university became a university (from a college) in 2005, and that growth energy shapes the culture. MBA students tend to be working professionals with 3-8 years of experience. The vibe is practical and career-focused. Atlanta's diverse economy means classmates come from Coca-Cola, Delta, Home Depot, UPS, and the city's thriving startup scene. No one is here for the prestige credential. They're here for the career outcomes.

Academics & Curriculum

Core courses cover business fundamentals with concentrations in management, marketing, and information systems. The curriculum is designed for working professionals, with evening and online delivery. The WebMBA program has earned national rankings. Case competitions and corporate partnerships with Atlanta companies provide experiential learning. Faculty are practice-oriented, and the curriculum stays current with employer needs.

Career Outcomes

Atlanta's corporate density drives the outcomes. Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, UPS, and NCR all recruit from Coles. Consulting firms with Atlanta offices, the city's fintech sector, and a booming healthcare industry round out the employer base. Average salary of $113,000. Employment rate of 88% at three months. Career services has invested in employer relationships that produce results well above what the ranking would suggest.

Who Should Apply

Atlanta-area professionals who want to maximize ROI. Career changers who need affordable tuition. Working professionals who need evening or online flexibility. Anyone who cares more about salary outcomes than brand prestige.

What to Watch Out For

The Kennesaw State brand is local. Outside Atlanta, the name doesn't carry weight in recruiting. The university's young history means the alumni network is still being built. If you're relocating away from Atlanta after graduation, the career services pipeline doesn't follow you. And the $113K salary figure is skewed by Atlanta's strong compensation market: in other cities, Coles graduates may not command the same premium.

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See also: Overall Rankings · Highest Salaries · Is an MBA Worth It? · GMAT vs GRE Guide