Charlotte, North Carolina, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Queens University of Charlotte and Elon University are set to merge, aiming to enhance educational offerings and workforce readiness in Charlotte. The merger, approved by both universities’ boards, will integrate resources, faculty, and student services for a combined student population of approximately 10,000. Current students will continue their programs uninterrupted, with the merger projected to finalize by November 2025 and the newly merged institution to be operational by August 2026.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Queens University of Charlotte and Elon University have announced plans for a merger aimed at enhancing educational offerings and workforce readiness in Charlotte, North Carolina, the state’s largest city. The merger will combine resources, faculty expertise, research capabilities, and student services from both institutions to create advantages of scale.
The boards of trustees for both universities unanimously approved the proposed merger, and a joint meeting is scheduled for next month to start planning the integration of their operations. Finalization of the partnership details is expected by November 2025, allowing for a smooth transition as both universities move forward.
To address student concerns, both universities assured that current students will be able to continue their programs without any interruption. Elon University has seen a 3.1% increase in fall enrollment since 2018, reaching a total of 7,207 students. In contrast, Queens University has experienced a significant decline of 27.2%, with its fall headcount at 1,846 students.
Financially, Elon University holds considerable advantages, boasting $1.3 billion in assets for the fiscal year 2024, while Queens University reports only $337.8 million. Moreover, Queens has faced financial challenges, reporting an $8.7 million deficit in 2024 due to a decline in tuition revenues and rising expenses. However, both institutions emphasized that the decision to merge is not a reaction to financial distress but rather a proactive strategy to address the educational needs within the Charlotte area, particularly in professional fields such as nursing, law, and health sciences.
The merger is expected to foster new programs across essential industries and improve access to Elon’s law school in Charlotte, which is currently the sole law school in the city. Queens University, founded in 1857, has a long-standing legacy in Charlotte, while Elon was established in 1889. Both universities’ presidents have stated that the merger will uphold their core values and ensure continuity for students and faculty.
The partnership aims to create more opportunities for students, faculty, alumni, and the broader Charlotte community, enhancing infrastructure and support for graduate students. A listening tour is planned for October to gather community input in shaping the merger effectively.
By August 2026, upon completion of the merger, Queens will operate under Elon’s management while still respecting Queens’ existing and legacy leaders. The newly merged institution will have a combined student population of around 10,000 and will total $2 billion in assets. Operational details regarding leadership structures and staffing adjustments will evolve as the merger progresses, with no immediate changes expected for existing Queens staff or leadership.
The merged institution may adopt a new name that honors Queens University’s 168-year legacy in Charlotte, allowing community input to play a significant role in the branding process. Additionally, no disruption to athletics is anticipated, as both institutions will retain their NCAA Division I status. This merger comes as nationwide trends indicate a growing number of universities may pursue similar collaborations in the coming years, positioning this merger as a potentially significant model within the higher education landscape.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the merger between Queens University of Charlotte and Elon University?
The merger is aimed at enhancing educational offerings and workforce readiness in Charlotte, North Carolina.
When is the finalization of the merger expected?
A finalization of the partnership details is expected to occur in November 2025.
Will current students be able to continue their programs during the merger?
Yes, current students will be able to continue their programs without interruption, as assured in a merger FAQ sheet.
What are the enrollment numbers for both universities?
Elon University has seen a 3.1% increase in fall enrollment since 2018, reaching 7,207 students, while Queens University has experienced a 27.2% decline, with a fall headcount of 1,846.
What is the financial status of both institutions?
Elon University has $1.3 billion in assets for fiscal 2024, compared to Queens’ $337.8 million. Queens has reported an $8.7 million deficit in 2024.
What opportunities will the merger create?
The merger aims to foster new programs across essential industries and enhance access to Elon’s law school in Charlotte.
When will the merger be fully completed?
The merger is expected to be completed by August 2026.
Key Features of the Merger
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Enhance educational offerings and workforce readiness |
| Expected Finalization | November 2025 |
| Student Continuity | Programs will continue without interruption |
| Elon Enrollment | 7,207 students (3.1% increase since 2018) |
| Queens Enrollment | 1,846 students (27.2% decline since 2018) |
| Financials | Elon: $1.3 billion assets; Queens: $337.8 million assets |
| Projected Completion | August 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Queens University of Charlotte and Elon University Announce Merger
Additional Resources
- WCNC: Queens University and Elon University Merger Announcement
- Charlotte Observer: Education News
- The Assembly: Why Queens and Elon Are Merging
- WRAL: Elon and Queens University Merger
- Elon News Network: University Merger Announcement
- Wikipedia: Queens University of Charlotte
- Google Search: Elon University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elon University
- Google News: Queens University Merger
Author: HERE Charlotte
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