Founded in 1912, the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia is recognized as the first business school in the American South. It stands on a solid foundation of academic rigor and industry relevance, blending the traditions of a historic institution with the demands of modern business education. Terry offers a robust portfolio of undergraduate, MBA, executive, and Ph.D. programs, along with specialized master’s degrees, and has built its reputation on preparing students not only for the challenges of today but also for the evolving landscapes of business tomorrow.
Vision and Mission
At its core, Terry College focuses on creating leaders who will impact their industries with confidence and integrity. The mission is clear: educate students to become thought leaders, effective communicators, and responsible citizens of the business world. The school emphasizes a practical and analytical approach, helping students navigate real-world business scenarios from day one.
With the University of Georgia’s flagship status, Terry leverages deep ties with businesses in Georgia, the Southeast, and beyond. The goal is not simply to provide theoretical knowledge but to help students engage meaningfully with the business world. Internships, case competitions, and close collaboration with industry partners are woven into the fabric of Terry’s curriculum, making education at Terry both immersive and applied.
Programs and Specializations
Undergraduate Programs
The Terry College offers eight undergraduate majors, including Finance, Accounting, Marketing, and Management Information Systems (MIS). These programs are designed to give students a solid foundation in both the fundamentals of business and the latest industry trends. The curriculum encourages students to develop the skills necessary to succeed in fast-paced environments through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experiences. The undergraduate program at Terry is highly selective, ensuring that students are part of a focused and driven cohort that challenges one another to excel.
For more information, check the Undergraduate Programs section on the Terry College website.
MBA Programs
The MBA programs at Terry—both Full-Time MBA and Professional MBA—rank highly among public institutions. These programs attract individuals looking to take a deep dive into business management while networking with peers and mentors. With a focus on leadership development, business analytics, and global perspective, Terry’s MBA is designed to equip professionals with the critical skills they need to succeed in today’s complex business environments. Courses are led by faculty who are not only educators but active researchers and consultants in their fields. This ensures that the curriculum reflects current business realities and future trends.
The Full-Time MBA offers concentrations in areas such as Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Operations, and Entrepreneurship. Each concentration allows students to tailor their education to their specific career goals, and the program’s experiential learning opportunities—like internships, global immersion, and consulting projects—ensure that students graduate with more than just theoretical knowledge.
The Professional MBA, designed for working professionals, allows students to complete their degree while continuing to advance in their careers. Classes are held in Atlanta, a major hub for business and innovation, giving students the advantage of networking with a broad range of industry professionals. The program’s flexible format makes it ideal for those looking to balance their education with work and family commitments.
More information on Terry’s MBA offerings can be found on their MBA Programs page.
Executive MBA Program
Terry’s Executive MBA (EMBA) is tailored to experienced professionals aiming to elevate their leadership skills. It’s an 18-month program that focuses on global business strategy, leadership development, and innovation. The EMBA attracts professionals who are mid-career or higher and are looking to transition into senior leadership roles or pivot into a new industry.
The program also includes international residencies and executive coaching, allowing students to gain insights into global markets and enhance their personal leadership style. The curriculum integrates technology and data-driven decision-making with classic business strategies, preparing executives to lead in an era where business is increasingly complex and fast-paced.
Explore more on the Executive MBA page.
Research and Thought Leadership
Terry College has been at the forefront of business research for decades. Faculty members are recognized leaders in their fields, publishing research that influences both academic discourse and real-world business practices. Terry hosts several research centers, such as the J.M. Tull School of Accounting and the Institute for Leadership Advancement, which serve as hubs for cutting-edge research and thought leadership in accounting, leadership, and more.
The Tull School of Accounting is particularly well-regarded, consistently ranking among the top 10 programs in the nation. Its faculty contribute to advancing knowledge in areas such as corporate governance, financial reporting, and taxation.
For more information on Terry’s research contributions, visit the Research and Centers section.
Business Partnerships and Alumni Network
Terry maintains strong partnerships with the business community, both regionally and globally. These partnerships are invaluable in providing students with internships, job placements, and opportunities for real-world business problem-solving. The Terry Business Learning Community (BLC), a state-of-the-art campus hub, supports these interactions by facilitating collaboration between students, faculty, and industry professionals.
Terry’s alumni network is extensive, with graduates occupying leadership positions in major corporations across the country. The college encourages its students to build lasting relationships with alumni, and the network regularly hosts events, mentorship programs, and speaker series to provide current students with valuable insights from those already making an impact in the business world.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Terry is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The Office of Diversity Relations supports this commitment by working to ensure that students from all backgrounds feel welcome and have access to the resources they need to succeed. Terry believes that diversity enriches the learning experience and better prepares students for working in a global business environment.
In addition to recruiting a diverse student body, Terry actively works to ensure that faculty and staff also reflect this commitment to diversity. The college recognizes that business leaders must be able to work in diverse teams and environments, and this perspective is embedded in both the curriculum and the campus culture.
Conclusion The Terry College of Business is more than just a business school; it’s a launching pad for future leaders who are prepared to make significant contributions to their industries and communities. With a history that spans over a century, Terry continues to evolve its programs to meet the needs of modern business while remaining grounded in the principles that have made it a cornerstone of business education.
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