University of Montevallo’s Stephens College of Business Maintains AACSB Accreditation

July 7, 2026

The University of Montevallo’s Michael E. Stephens College of Business is proud to have its accreditation renewed by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) ahead of the 2026-2027 academic year.

AACSB accreditation is considered the “gold standard” for business education. By achieving and maintaining this status, UM ensures that its curriculum meets rigorous global standards, delivering degrees that are highly recognized by employers.

“We are incredibly proud and grateful that AACSB International has recommended the extension of accreditation,” said Dr. Sara Robicheaux, dean of the Michael E. Stephens College of Business at UM. “This achievement is a direct reflection of the extraordinary commitment of our faculty, who worked tirelessly over the past year to elevate our research productivity, deepen our community engagement and strengthen our focus on workforce development for the state of Alabama. AACSB accreditation is the gold standard in business education, and this recognition affirms that our students are receiving a world-class education that prepares them to lead and serve across Alabama and beyond. We are proud of what we have built together and excited about what lies ahead.”

Montevallo is part of an elite group of institutions, with only the top six percent of business schools worldwide receiving AACSB accreditation. UM is also one of only eight public liberal arts institutions in the country to hold AACSB accreditation, and the only one in the state of Alabama.

“What truly sets us apart is the unique environment in which we operate,” said Robicheaux. “As a business college within Alabama’s public liberal arts university, our students benefit from something rare: a rigorous business education grounded in the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills that only a liberal arts foundation can provide. Paired with AACSB accreditation, that combination is exceptionally powerful. In a workforce that is changing faster than ever, employers need graduates who can think critically, adapt quickly and lead with confidence. That is precisely what a Montevallo business education delivers. Our students don’t just learn business — they learn how to think, and that makes all the difference.”

The Stephens College of Business offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with majors in fields like accounting, data analytics, finance, management and marketing, as well as a flexible general business degree. Additionally, UM offers a fully online MBA program.

Learn more about the UM Stephens College of Business and attend Preview Day on Friday, July 17 to see why Montevallo means more business!