News & Stories
A taste of business for high school students
Rising high school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to learn about business fundamentals at the Tar Heel Business Academy offered by UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School in Charlotte and Chapel Hill this summer.
UNC Kenan-Flagler professors will teach business concepts and how to apply them through case studies and group projects. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, networking and AI.
“Understanding the critical role that business has in society – for employees and employers, investors and consumers – will benefit students regardless of what subjects they decide to study in college or the careers they will pursue,” said Dean Mary Margaret Frank (BSBA ’92, MAC ’92, PhD ’99).
There are two course options.
- “Business Essentials: Core Skills for Future Leaders” will be offered June 15-19 and June 22-26 in Charlotte, and July 13-17 in Chapel Hill. It will cover strategy, finance, marketing, operations and leadership.
- “Next Gen Entrepreneurship with AI: Build, Fund and Lead the Future” will be offered June 15-19 and June 22-26 in Charlotte. In a fast-paced bootcamp, students will come up with an idea for a new venture and prepare a presentation for feedback from entrepreneurs and investors.
The Charlotte sessions will be held at the UNC Kenan-Flagler campus in the Bank of America Tower. The Chapel Hill session will be held in the new Stephen D. Bell Hall at UNC Kenan Flagler. Tar Heel Business Academy is not a residential program and students are responsible for their transportation each day.
UNC Kenan-Flagler piloted the program in June 2025 to high praise. Students particularly valued the opportunity to meet new people and learn about business together before they make their college choices.