Christopher Newport University was established in 1961 and is the newest higher education institution in Virginia. The Joseph W. Luter, III School of Business, brings a fresh perspective on business. U.S. News and World Report’s 2020 rankings list CNU among the top regional universities in the South, Best Value Schools, Most Innovative Schools, and Best Undergraduate Teaching. The dedicated faculty make themselves available for informal discussions outside of the classroom and mentoring, as well as provide engaging student-centered instruction during class. Additionally, Bloomberg Businessweek names the Luter SoB among the Best Undergraduate Business Schools. Alumni of this AACSB accredited school have bright futures with organizations such as the CIA, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and Price Waterhouse Coopers.
Education
Undergraduate students begin with a well-rounded 40-credit hour liberal arts core, focused on leadership. Prior to being admitted into the undergraduate business programs, students gain a strong foundation through 15-credit hours of pre-business courses. When students enter a business program, they understand the grit required and have committed to change the world. Majors are offered in Accounting, Finance, Management, and Marketing.
Graduate students can prepare for the complex job market of the 21st century by earning a Master of Financial Analysis. This degree focuses on utilizing software and artificial intelligence tools to analyze financial markets. The curriculum for this 30-credit hour program consists of six core courses and four electives. The electives are designed to prepare students to be successful on the Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Analyst, or Certified Public Accountant exam. Some of the elective choices include Advanced Corporate Finance, Emerging Assurance Technologies, Entrepreneurial Finance, and Cybersecurity for Finance and Accounting Professionals.
Student Life
Luter SoB accepts a competitive group of juniors every year and serves nearly 400 upperclassmen. Students are encouraged to combine their critical thinking skills with a heart of service. There are many opportunities for students to make their mark on the community, such as assisting low-income individuals with their taxes through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. There are many other opportunities for students to get involved in service-learning projects through campus initiatives and in the community.
Students who participate in the year-long Executive Mentorship Program emerge as stronger leaders and have a better understanding of career choices available to them. Nearly 75% of all Luter students also complete an internship experience.
The study abroad program allows students to participate in faculty-led trips to countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Students can transform into polished career candidates through the Signature Program. This program offers workshops to help students practice interview skills, etiquette dinners, and networking events. Signature Program participants are required to either earn a Bloomberg or SAP certification, complete the mentorship program, study abroad, conduct a research project, or enter a competition. Mr. is a fun organization for students interested in becoming entrepreneurs to participate in information pitch competitions. Other business organizations include the Accounting Club, American Marketing Association, Economics and Finance Club, and Student Government Association.
