Summer Business Institute — Elon in Charlotte

10-Week Immersive Program | Business Minor | AI-Infused Curriculum

The Summer Business Institute (SBI) offers Elon students the chance to earn a Business Administration minor in just one summer while living and learning in Charlotte, North Carolina, one of the fastest-growing business and innovation hubs in the Southeast.

Through AI-enhanced courses, professional development experiences, and connections with alumni and industry leaders, students leave the program with both a credential and a competitive edge.

Why choose the Summer Business Institute?

AI-Driven Learning

Every course we offer integrates intentional AI applications, helping you see how emerging technology fits into accounting, marketing, finance, and management. You’ll learn how to use AI tools strategically, turning classroom knowledge into real-world insight.

Career-Ready Development

SBI bridges your major with foundational business knowledge and professional skills. You’ll graduate with a well-rounded toolkit, ready to communicate effectively, lead confidently and compete across industries.

Community & Connections

You’ll join a cohort of students from different majors and backgrounds, all learning together in Charlotte. With Elon faculty, engaged alumni and local organizations at your side, you’ll build relationships that extend far beyond the summer.

Academics & Curriculum

Earn your Business Administration minor in one summer. Students must also complete ECO 1000 before or after the program.

Courses (4 sh each):

  • ACC 2010 – Principles of Accounting
  • MKT 3110 – Principles of Marketing
  • MGT 3230 – Management & Organizational Behavior
  • FIN 3030 – Introduction to Finance

Each course includes case projects, experiential applications and AI-enhanced learning.

Why Charlotte?

Charlotte is a growing center for technology, healthcare, finance, energy and innovation, making it a powerful launchpad for students in engineering, computer science, nursing, data, communications, design and business majors.

  • Home to major employers such as Bank of America, Lowe’s Tech Hub, Atrium Health, Honeywell, Microsoft, and Duke Energy
  • A real-world environment where AI, business strategy, and innovation actively intersect across industries
  • A strong and highly engaged Elon alumni network in the region
  • Built-in career coaching, job shadowing, and professional exposure through the program

Students in Charlotte are not just learning business; they are immersed in the environments where AI and business shape the future of their industries.

Living & Learning in Charlotte

Students live at Foster Flats in South End, a fully furnished apartment community with private bedrooms, shared living spaces, and full kitchens. The walkable neighborhood provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and light rail transit, placing you in the heart of the city.

Apply & Next Steps

Eligibility

  • Open to Elon students in good academic standing
  • Completion of ECO 1000 required

Important Dates

  • Application opens: Nov. 1, 2025
  • Early Decision Deadline: December 15, 2025
  • Rolling Admissions Period: January 5 – March 1, 2026

Contact

Program FAQ

Who can apply to the Summer Business Institute?

The program is open to any Elon student in good academic standing. To complete the Business Administration minor through the Summer Business Institute, students must also take ECO1000.

What are the application deadlines?

  • Early Decision: Apply by December 15
  • Rolling Admissions Period: January 5 through March 1

How does the Summer Business Institute fit with my major?

The program is designed for students outside the Love School of Business. It adds business knowledge and AI fluency to your primary field of study, making you more versatile and career-ready.

Can business majors or business minors apply?

Business majors may apply if they want to complete the Business Administration minor through the Summer Business Institute.
Students already completing the Business Administration minor should not apply, since this program fulfills the same requirements.

What is included in the program fee?

The program fee typically covers tuition, housing at Foster Flats, and co-curricular programming such as site visits, alumni panels, and community events.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. Elon students can apply their existing Elon financial aid to the Summer Business Institute tuition. Students from other institutions can work with Elon’s Office of Financial Aid to discuss available options.

How will the credits appear on my transcript?

Credits from the program are standard Elon University courses and appear on your transcript like any fall or spring semester course. Completing the Summer Business Institute plus ECO1000 satisfies the Business Administration minor requirements.

Does the program include an internship?

The Summer Business Institute does not include formal internships. However, the program features site visits, consulting projects, alumni engagement, and professional exposure in Charlotte.

What technology or software do I need?

Students should bring a personal laptop that can run Microsoft Office and standard Elon software. AI tools and data platforms used in coursework will be provided or licensed.

What happens after the program ends?

Students return to campus with the Business Administration minor complete and a stronger professional network. Alumni of the Summer Business Institute will continue to have access to Charlotte-based networking opportunities through Elon Charlotte.