UNC Charlotte Broadens Online Learning for 2026-2027 Academic Year
Building on the momentum of the new academic year, UNC Charlotte is introducing a significant suite of new and expanded fully online degree programs and specialized certificates for the 2026–2027 academic year. Designed to provide flexible, high-impact pathways for working adults, these additions directly align with the rapidly evolving workforce needs of the Charlotte region.
The expansion comes as the university tracks toward ambitious growth goals outlined in its updated strategic plan, which targets an enrollment of 35,000 students by 2030—with over 15% studying online.
Addressing faculty, staff, and leadership at the annual University Convocation, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Jennifer Troyer highlighted how the university’s growth mirrors that of the surrounding metropolitan area.
“Our momentum, the momentum that we share with the Charlotte region, is pushing us closer to that number,” said Troyer. “To serve these students and deliver on our commitment to meet the needs of our region, we are adding six new or expanded fully online programs to better serve working adults.”
The latest online offerings span high-demand fields across artificial intelligence, education, business, criminal justice, and language studies, allowing distance learners to gain high-value credentials without stepping away from their careers.
The expanded online portfolio for the 2026–2027 academic year includes:
Undergraduate Degree Programs & Concentrations
- B.A. in Computer Science – AI-Assisted Software Engineering Concentration: Offered in a new online modality, introducing a cutting-edge concentration focused on practical AI applications in software development.
- B.S. in Economics – Business Administration & Liberal Arts Concentrations: Expands access to critical economic and business strategy tools through a new online format.
- B.A. in Criminal Justice: Now delivered fully online to support public safety professionals and career advancement.
- B.A. in Early Childhood Education & Intervention: Launches as an online-exclusive degree program, creating an accessible pipeline for early childhood educators.
- B.A. in Special Education: Available in a new online modality to address regional teacher shortages and prepare specialized educators.
Graduate Degrees & Certificates
- M.A. in Spanish: Transitions to a fully online format as the degree’s exclusive instructional modality.
- Graduate Certificate in Business Spanish: Offered online to help professionals meet the growing need for bilingual business communications.
- Graduate Certificate in Teaching Health & Physical Education: Adds a new online concentration for licensed educators expanding their teaching credentials.
Whether you are looking to advance in your current field, complete your degree, or pivot to a high-growth industry like artificial intelligence or specialized education, UNC Charlotte Online provides the flexibility you need to achieve your goals.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore application requirements, career outcomes, and enrollment dates by visiting our Online Program Directory or contacting an enrollment specialist today.