Best Colleges in North Carolina 2024 (2024)

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Overview
Most Popular Degrees/Careers
Associate Degrees
Bachelor's Degrees
Master's Degrees
Cost Analysis

By University HQ Staff Writers

Updated on June 7, 2024

Edited by Evelyn Keener

Learn more about our editorial process

University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs in North Carolina.

Get Matched With North Carolina Programs

North Carolina is home to several high-quality schools, both public and private. Names like Duke University and the University of North Carolina are probably the best-known schools in the state, but NC boasts a wide array of schools from small liberal arts colleges to NC State, the largest university in the Carolinas.

What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in North Carolina?

While the state’s private colleges are a significant investment for those who don’t have federal funding or scholarships, NC’s public universities promise a quality education for less than $10,000 per year.

The most popular bachelor’s degrees in North Carolina are similar to the most popular bachelor’s degrees across the country. Students top picks include majors such as biology, business administration, and psychology, as well as computer science. Here are the top five degrees:

How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in North Carolina

In general, the higher the degree, the greater the earning potential. It’s important to remember that this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Some fields, like marketing or computer programming, allow you to advance in your career without a master’s degree. Others, like psychology, require a master’s minimum, as your point of entry. Still, getting a bachelor’s degree, or even an associate can help you earn much more than you would with only a high school diploma.

According to data PayScale, bachelor’s degree holders have an average income of about $58,000 per year. Degree type makes a difference; the site reported that those with a Bachelor of Science earned $63,000 on average, compared to those with a Bachelor of Arts who earned about $53,000 on average.

Those figures are likely skewed a bit, as high-paying technical occupations like engineering and computer science majors earn BS degrees. BA graduates span a range of majors, including some sectors where it may be harder to find employment. Associate degree holders earn about $48,000 per year.

Those with a high school diploma, or GED only, are likely to earn considerably less. The BLS reports the median weekly income for those without any formal education credential can expect to make roughly $688 per week.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION	HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA	ASSOCIATE DEGREE	BACHELOR’S DEGREE	MASTER’S DEGREE	DOCTORAL DEGREE
$36,816*	$46,748*	$55,016*	$77,636*	$90,324*	$109,668*

*National Average Earnings by Degree Level

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Most Popular Degrees and Careers in North Carolina

Based on our look at the top majors, as compared with the state’s job market, healthcare is likely to provide the best return on investment for students, particularly if they choose to attend medical school. Nurses, too, are always in demand, and stand to make a relatively decent salary. They can choose to later become a nurse practitioner or educator to boost earning potential and open up more job opportunities.

The top paying job in the state is as an internist, but those who pursue dentistry, psychology, and business or marketing will graduate in a good place as well.

Beyond these trends, students interested in computer programming, software development, or engineering stand to see some of the highest salaries straight out of college. Below, we’ll look at some of the top careers available by field of study.

Biology

Top Biology Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME	NUMBER OF JOBS	AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Microbiologist	410	$62,980
Biological Scientist	1,270	$88,590
Biological technician	2,240	$45,640
Soil and Plant Scientist	710	$60,590

Microbiologist:
Microbiologists typically work in a lab setting, identifying and isolating organisms that can cause disease. They also look at the growth and development of microscopic organisms like bacteria, fungi, or algae. While many microbiologists work in a research setting, others work in hospitals, preparing cultures and identifying and confirming medical diagnoses.
Biological Scientist:
Biological scientists can work in a variety of fields from ecology and marine biology to biochemistry or zoology. Scientists collect and analyze data, conduct experiments, and present their findings. Biologists might work in a hospital, a food manufacturer, or research facility.
Biological Technician:
Biological technicians work in a support role helping biologists run experiments and analyze their findings. An entry-level job for aspiring biologists, technicians can find work in a variety of settings; hospitals, labs, or the private sector.
Soil and Plant Scientist:
A soil and plant scientist specializes in studying crops and agricultural plants. They’ll look at the chemical, biological, and physical makeup of soils, as well as conduct research aimed at controlling pests and improving crop yields.

Business

Top Business Administration Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME	NUMBER OF JOBS	AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Financial Managers	16,680	$150,140
Operations Managers	57,480	$128,390
Human Resources Specialists	19,070	$65,970
Accountants	33,750	$78,500
Management Analysts	17,600	$98,020

Financial Manager:
Financial managers aim to improve an organization’s economic well-being. They’ll spend a good deal of time compiling reports, reviewing historical data, and analyzing markets. This allows them to provide informed guidance to businesses to develop a financial strategy, mitigate risk, and plan for significant changes like expansions and acquisitions.
Operations Manager:
Operations managers are part of a management team that oversees internal processes such as production and HR, administration, and more. The operations manager works to analyze and improve quality, efficiency, and productivity; often creating and implementing procedures that set the tone for success. This professional must be exceptionally organized and can multitask.
Human Resources Specialist:
Human resources specialists often focus on a specific area within the human resources umbrella. That might be compensation, benefits, employee assistance, training, or recruitment, though the role varies by employer.
Accountant:
Accountants collect information that allows them to summarize a company or client’s financial status. They’ll spend their days compiling profit and loss statements, balance sheets, reconciling bank accounts, and maintaining account controls. Ultimately, accountants keep track of money going in and out and may recommend policies and procedures that help organizations better manage their money.
Management Analyst:
Management analysts, or consultants, work with companies to propose solutions that enable them to become more profitable and productive. This person evaluates the inner workings of a company, analyzes data, and identifies areas where organizations can improve. They may also help management implement new policies and procedures or train employees on new initiatives.
Marketing Manager
Entrepreneur
Business Administrator
Business Careers
Business Manager
Entrepreneur
Financial Analyst
Human Resources Manager
Organizational Leader

Healthcare

Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME	NUMBER OF JOBS	AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Registered Nurse	99,960	$66,440
Physician	13,380	$198,040
Physical Therapist	6,310	$88,020
Nursing Assistant	56,780	$26,540
Home Health Aide	30,040	$21,120

Registered Nurse:
Nursing is always in demand, both in North Carolina and across the country. RNs work in medical clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities, with their primary focus on promoting patient health. Nurses assess health problems and implement plans for care. They advise patients on disease prevention and care, and administer care to the ill, disabled, or injured.
Physician:
Once you’re out in the working world, you’ll diagnose patients through routine checkups and exams, monitor conditions and interpret test results. Salaries range depending on specialization. A general physician, the doctor you’d visit for regular physical exams earn on average, around $140,000 per year, while doctors working in a specialized field can expect to make more.
Physical Therapist:
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries or medical conditions ranging from broken bones and back pain to strokes and disabilities. PTs can work in a variety of settings: hospitals, outpatient facilities, or in private practice.
Nursing Assistant:
Nursing assistants work in a support role in a range of healthcare settings. Typically, they will work under the supervision of a registered nurse and help patients with bathing, dressing, and tending to wounds. Nursing assistants don’t need a bachelor’s degree, but most employers require employees to hold a CNA credential. CNA training generally takes about six months to complete.
Home Health Aide:
Home health aides are high in demand in NC and beyond. Home health aides take care of the elderly or disabled and check vitals, help them perform basic activities, change linens, and make sure patients’ quarters are clean and safe. While this role is an entry-level position, many certified aides go on to become nurses.
Healthcare Administrator:
The role of a healthcare administrator is to ensure that a healthcare facility runs smoothly and efficiently by making sure they have all the necessary resources and policies in place.
Healthcare Manager

Computer Science

Top Computer Science Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME	NUMBER OF JOBS	AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Software Developer	30,580	$103,280
Database Administrator	2,730	$89,120
Computer Systems Analyst	26,050	$94,330
Web Developer	3,530	$73,610
Computer Programmer	5,360	$94,700

Software Developer:
Software developers work to create software programs that allow users to perform a set of tasks on computers, smartphones, and other devices. This job involves writing code, developing an application, testing, and maintaining software. Because the job is all about the holistic view, software developers must have a combination of soft skills like creativity, as well as hard skills like programming, debugging, and an understanding of programming languages.
Database Administrator:
Database administrators are IT professionals that make sure an organization’s database is working properly. In this role, administrators aim to keep company information accessible and secure. Typical tasks include troubleshooting database issues, monitoring system performance, backing up systems, and working to ensure cloud-based data is protected.
Computer Systems Analyst:
Computer systems analysts study an organization’s set of computer systems and procedures, looking for problems or areas that could be improved. Analysts work with managers to set goals for IT performance, weigh costs and benefits of new solutions, and select the best hardware and software for the job.
Web Developer:
Web developers create the backbone of the website, making sure that everything that “goes on top” of the initial framework enables users to access the information they need. Web developers test and document software powering websites, and they work alongside other designers, content developers, and product managers. Additionally, they write the code that creates web pages, data bases, and other website components.
Computer Programmer:
A computer programmer writes code, designs software programs, and debugs and maintains code related to a range of computer systems. Computer programmers must have an in-depth knowledge of several programming languages like Java, C++, JavaScript, and more.
Cyber Security Analyst
Computer Science Careers
Database Administrator
Information Technology Specialist
Web Developer

Engineering

Top Engineering Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME	NUMBER OF JOBS	AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Civil Engineer	10,520	$88,470
Industrial Engineer	9,340	$86,240
Electrical Engineer	4,830	$98,680
Mechanical Engineer	8,970	$86,260

Civil Engineer:
Civil engineers design, plan, and supervise construction projects as well as public improvement efforts like the repair and maintenance of railways, tunnels, roads, and bridges. Often civil engineers work in the public sector, solving problems aimed at improving safety within a community. Others work in private construction or design firms.
Industrial Engineer:
Industrial engineers often work in a manufacturing setting, solving problems that aim to reduce waste and increase efficiency. This person designs, develops, and tests systems for managing industrial processes covering several areas from human work factors to logistics, quality control, and energy use.
Electrical Engineer:
Electrical engineers evaluate electrical components and products, solve problems, and test equipment. This person must have a firm grasp on physics and math as they apply to electricity.
Mechanical Engineer:
Mechanical engineers design machines like escalators, air conditioning systems, engines or generators, and solve problems related to these machines. They also install, test, and monitor equipment and make repairs and improvements if needed.
Software Engineer

Additional Careers in North Carolina

Addiction Counselor
Psychologist
Counselor
Criminal Justice Professional
Preschool Teacher
Mental Health Counselor
School Counselor

Want to See All the North Carolina Occupational Wage Averages

The top occupations with the highest forecasted growth rate in North Carolina

North Carolina’s job prospects reflect the changes we’ve seen on a national and global level. Jobs in the healthcare sector are on the rise, as are those with a focus on data. The state is expected to add over 380,000 jobs between the years 2017 and 2026, and job growth is holding steady at an average .89%, which is higher than the national average of .66%.

North Carolina’s healthcare industry is the largest industry, on track to contribute roughly 93,000 new jobs by 2026. According to BLS data, nearly all of the state’s highest paying jobs all fall into the healthcare category. The exceptions are chief executives and marketing managers. Behind healthcare, professional, scientific, and technical services jobs are expected to add 37,000 new jobs within that same time frame.

The fastest growing jobs in North Carolina are in healthcare and construction. Nurses, of course, top the list, but also jobs like home health aides and other support roles within the healthcare space. It’s important to note that these support roles don’t offer much in the way of salary. As such, it might be worthwhile to approach these careers as a stepping stone to earning a bachelor’s degree. For example, a home healthcare aide earns their certification from a community college. If they earn that credential at an accredited institution, those credits can transfer to a four-year institution.

Occupation	percentage growth rate
Social assistance	20.87%
Ambulatory Healthcare Services	20.72%
Healthcare and Social Assistance	16.08%
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services	15.36%
Securities, Commodities, and Other Financial Investments	18.74%
Publishing Industries, not internet	20.86%
Construction	16.14%
Professional and Business Services	13.26%

Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in North Carolina

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Beaufort County Community College

Score: 79.92

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,540
- Out-of-State: $8,684
Net Price: $7,279
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 1,741
Undergrad Students: 1,741
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $45,900
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Wilkes Community College

Score: 73.74

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,572
- Out-of-State: $8,716
Net Price: $3,471
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 55%
Total Enrollment: 2,321
Undergrad Students: 2,321
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $31,600
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

McDowell Technical Community College

Score: 72.17

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,958
- Out-of-State: $6,566
Net Price: $2,715
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 59%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 1,100
Undergrad Students: 1,100
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $34,500
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

Isothermal Community College

Score: 71.51

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,030
- Out-of-State: $6,638
Net Price: $6,756
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 53%
Total Enrollment: 1,876
Undergrad Students: 1,876
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,600
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Wayne Community College

Score: 70.28

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,524
- Out-of-State: $8,668
Net Price: $4,694
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 80%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 2,732
Undergrad Students: 2,732
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,300
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Gaston College

Score: 69.81

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,186
- Out-of-State: $9,330
Net Price: $4,103
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 43%
Total Enrollment: 5,558
Undergrad Students: 5,558
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,900
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Roanoke-Chowan Community College

Score: 68.36

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,642
- Out-of-State: $8,786
Net Price: $8,538
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 47%
Total Enrollment: 569
Undergrad Students: 569
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Edgecombe Community College

Score: 67.65

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,640
- Out-of-State: $8,784
Net Price: $5,996
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 28%
Total Enrollment: 1,313
Undergrad Students: 1,313
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $37,100
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Blue Ridge Community College-Flat Rock

Score: 67.17

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,660
- Out-of-State: $8,804
Net Price: $7,677
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 2,794
Undergrad Students: 2,794
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,300
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

Nash Community College

Score: 66.85

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,883
- Out-of-State: $8,883
Net Price: $7,102
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 2,645
Undergrad Students: 2,645
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $35,600
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Western Piedmont Community College

Score: 66.23

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,650
- Out-of-State: $8,794
Net Price: $7,821
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 39%
Total Enrollment: 1,749
Undergrad Students: 1,749
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,300
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Richmond Community College

Score: 66.11

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,552
- Out-of-State: $8,696
Net Price: $4,986
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 34%
Total Enrollment: 2,290
Undergrad Students: 2,290
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,800
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Brunswick Community College

Score: 65.9

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,532
- Out-of-State: $8,676
Net Price: $7,656
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 1,678
Undergrad Students: 1,678
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,700
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Southwestern Community College-Sylva

Score: 65.84

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,806
- Out-of-State: $19,630
Net Price: $8,858
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 58%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 2,256
Undergrad Students: 2,256
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Wake Technical Community College

Score: 65.53

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,336
- Out-of-State: $7,582
Net Price: $3,914
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 31%
Total Enrollment: 21,551
Undergrad Students: 21,551
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $35,300
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Vance-Granville Community College

Score: 65.26

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,956
- Out-of-State: $6,564
Net Price: $3,193
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 31%
Total Enrollment: 2,814
Undergrad Students: 2,814
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,400
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute

Score: 65.24

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,537
- Out-of-State: $8,681
Net Price: $6,286
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 3,703
Undergrad Students: 3,703
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $31,100
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

Johnston Community College

Score: 64.79

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,657
- Out-of-State: $8,801
Net Price: $5,844
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 47%
Total Enrollment: 4,282
Undergrad Students: 4,282
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,700
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Southeastern Community College-Whiteville

Score: 64.75

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,600
- Out-of-State: $8,744
Net Price: $2,028
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 38%
Total Enrollment: 1,228
Undergrad Students: 1,228
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $27,900
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Louisburg College

Score: 64.12

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $22,974
- Out-of-State: $22,974
Net Price: $21,419
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 42%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 434
Undergrad Students: 434
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $28,800
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Craven Community College

Score: 63.77

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,022
- Out-of-State: $6,630
Net Price: $6,055
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%

Graduation Rate: 39%
Total Enrollment: 2,701
Undergrad Students: 2,701
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,400
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte

Score: 63.71

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $40,408
- Out-of-State: $40,408
Net Price: $29,238
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 64%

Graduation Rate: 53%
Total Enrollment: 1,140
Undergrad Students: 1,140
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Randolph Community College

Score: 63.36

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,416
- Out-of-State: $8,176
Net Price: $8,104
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 2,469
Undergrad Students: 2,469
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $27,900
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

College of the Albemarle

Score: 63.14

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,249
- Out-of-State: $7,222
Net Price: $3,993
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 54%

Graduation Rate: 42%
Total Enrollment: 2,314
Undergrad Students: 2,314
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $28,600
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Davidson-Davie Community College

Score: 63

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,978
- Out-of-State: $6,586
Net Price: $7,278
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 36%
Total Enrollment: 3,921
Undergrad Students: 3,921
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $31,800
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina

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Duke University

Score: 91.64

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $65,805
- Out-of-State: $65,805
Net Price: $23,694
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 97%
Total Enrollment: 18,023
Undergrad Students: 6,640
Graduate Students: 11,383
Grads Salary: $95,000
Student-to-faculty: 6:1

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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Score: 85.66

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,989
- Out-of-State: $39,330
Net Price: $10,614
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Retention Rate: 96%

Graduation Rate: 91%
Total Enrollment: 31,705
Undergrad Students: 20,029
Graduate Students: 11,676
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Score: 82.85

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,895
- Out-of-State: $31,767
Net Price: $14,852
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 85%
Total Enrollment: 36,700
Undergrad Students: 26,254
Graduate Students: 10,446
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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Wake Forest University

Score: 80.47

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,758
- Out-of-State: $64,758
Net Price: $26,197
Acceptance Rate: 21%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 90%
Total Enrollment: 8,963
Undergrad Students: 5,447
Graduate Students: 3,516
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

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Davidson College

Score: 79.44

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $60,300
- Out-of-State: $60,300
Net Price: $26,704
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 92%
Total Enrollment: 1,927
Undergrad Students: 1,927
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Score: 73.71

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,748
- Out-of-State: $20,408
Net Price: $9,189
Acceptance Rate: 56%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 57%
Total Enrollment: 13,487
Undergrad Students: 11,833
Graduate Students: 1,654
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

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University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Score: 72.67

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,214
- Out-of-State: $21,876
Net Price: $13,951
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 29,551
Undergrad Students: 23,461
Graduate Students: 6,090
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Appalachian State University

Score: 70.35

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,541
- Out-of-State: $24,537
Net Price: $13,084
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 83%

Graduation Rate: 75%
Total Enrollment: 20,436
Undergrad Students: 18,558
Graduate Students: 1,878
Grads Salary: $64,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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University of North Carolina Wilmington

Score: 69.72

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,317
- Out-of-State: $22,985
Net Price: $18,709
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 83%

Graduation Rate: 74%
Total Enrollment: 17,843
Undergrad Students: 14,294
Graduate Students: 3,549
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

East Carolina University

Score: 69.14

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,361
- Out-of-State: $23,638
Net Price: $14,410
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Retention Rate: 80%

Graduation Rate: 65%
Total Enrollment: 27,151
Undergrad Students: 21,688
Graduate Students: 5,463
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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Winston-Salem State University

Score: 67.75

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,735
- Out-of-State: $17,391
Net Price: $14,097
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 5,004
Undergrad Students: 4,513
Graduate Students: 491
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Meredith College

Score: 66.83

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,936
- Out-of-State: $43,936
Net Price: $23,259
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 68%
Total Enrollment: 1,587
Undergrad Students: 1,322
Graduate Students: 265
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Western Carolina University

Score: 66.26

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,532
- Out-of-State: $8,532
Net Price: $13,022
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 61%
Total Enrollment: 11,635
Undergrad Students: 9,956
Graduate Students: 1,679
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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Elizabeth City State University

Score: 65.62

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,412
- Out-of-State: $7,412
Net Price: $4,120
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 42%
Total Enrollment: 2,149
Undergrad Students: 2,033
Graduate Students: 116
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Score: 65.59

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,593
- Out-of-State: $23,339
Net Price: $10,979
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 58%
Total Enrollment: 17,978
Undergrad Students: 14,198
Graduate Students: 3,780
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Elon University

Score: 64.95

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $44,536
- Out-of-State: $44,536
Net Price: $41,527
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 83%
Total Enrollment: 7,123
Undergrad Students: 6,337
Graduate Students: 786
Grads Salary: $69,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings

Wingate University

Score: 64.88

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $40,196
- Out-of-State: $40,196
Net Price: $18,823
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 57%
Total Enrollment: 3,396
Undergrad Students: 2,510
Graduate Students: 886
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Queens University of Charlotte

Score: 64.32

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,285
- Out-of-State: $43,285
Net Price: $29,459
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 1,873
Undergrad Students: 1,317
Graduate Students: 556
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Fayetteville State University

Score: 63.99

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,969
- Out-of-State: $7,969
Net Price: $6,355
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Retention Rate: 70%

Graduation Rate: 44%
Total Enrollment: 6,787
Undergrad Students: 5,748
Graduate Students: 1,039
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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Lees-McRae College

Score: 63.99

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,140
- Out-of-State: $31,140
Net Price: $24,108
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 46%
Total Enrollment: 855
Undergrad Students: 855
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Guilford College

Score: 63.5

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,140
- Out-of-State: $41,140
Net Price: $23,882
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 1,167
Undergrad Students: 1,129
Graduate Students: 38
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Brevard College

Score: 62.92

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,250
- Out-of-State: $31,250
Net Price: $24,220
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 36%
Total Enrollment: 759
Undergrad Students: 735
Graduate Students: 24
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Salem College

Score: 62.8

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $32,236
- Out-of-State: $32,236
Net Price: $18,354
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 469
Undergrad Students: 364
Graduate Students: 105
Grads Salary: $62,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

University of North Carolina at Asheville

Score: 62.59

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,461
- Out-of-State: $24,809
Net Price: $14,730
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 59%
Total Enrollment: 2,914
Undergrad Students: 2,914
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $58,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Catawba College

Score: 62.01

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,400
- Out-of-State: $33,400
Net Price: $19,701
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 65%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 1,172
Undergrad Students: 1,094
Graduate Students: 78
Grads Salary: $63,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Top 25 Best Master's Programs in North Carolina

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Duke University

Score: 91.64

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,620
- Out-of-State: $62,620
Net Price: $23,694
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 97%
Total Enrollment: 18,023
Undergrad Students: 6,640
Graduate Students: 11,383
Grads Salary: $95,000
Student-to-faculty: 6:1

View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Score: 85.66

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,552
- Out-of-State: $28,844
Net Price: $10,614
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Retention Rate: 96%

Graduation Rate: 91%
Total Enrollment: 31,705
Undergrad Students: 20,029
Graduate Students: 11,676
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Score: 82.85

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,459
- Out-of-State: $29,433
Net Price: $14,852
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 85%
Total Enrollment: 36,700
Undergrad Students: 26,254
Graduate Students: 10,446
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings

Wake Forest University

Score: 80.47

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,650
- Out-of-State: $38,650
Net Price: $26,197
Acceptance Rate: 21%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 90%
Total Enrollment: 8,963
Undergrad Students: 5,447
Graduate Students: 3,516
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

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Score: 73.71

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,895
- Out-of-State: $17,695
Net Price: $9,189
Acceptance Rate: 56%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 57%
Total Enrollment: 13,487
Undergrad Students: 11,833
Graduate Students: 1,654
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

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University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Score: 72.67

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,467
- Out-of-State: $19,036
Net Price: $13,951
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 29,551
Undergrad Students: 23,461
Graduate Students: 6,090
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Appalachian State University

Score: 70.35

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,081
- Out-of-State: $20,841
Net Price: $13,084
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 83%

Graduation Rate: 75%
Total Enrollment: 20,436
Undergrad Students: 18,558
Graduate Students: 1,878
Grads Salary: $64,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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University of North Carolina Wilmington

Score: 69.72

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,979
- Out-of-State: $20,155
Net Price: $18,709
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 83%

Graduation Rate: 74%
Total Enrollment: 17,843
Undergrad Students: 14,294
Graduate Students: 3,549
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

East Carolina University

Score: 69.14

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,749
- Out-of-State: $17,898
Net Price: $14,410
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Retention Rate: 80%

Graduation Rate: 65%
Total Enrollment: 27,151
Undergrad Students: 21,688
Graduate Students: 5,463
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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Winston-Salem State University

Score: 67.75

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,872
- Out-of-State: $14,407
Net Price: $14,097
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 5,004
Undergrad Students: 4,513
Graduate Students: 491
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Meredith College

Score: 66.83

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,469
- Out-of-State: $13,469
Net Price: $23,259
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 68%
Total Enrollment: 1,587
Undergrad Students: 1,322
Graduate Students: 265
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Western Carolina University

Score: 66.26

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,568
- Out-of-State: $15,287
Net Price: $13,022
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 61%
Total Enrollment: 11,635
Undergrad Students: 9,956
Graduate Students: 1,679
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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Elizabeth City State University

Score: 65.62

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,375
- Out-of-State: $16,437
Net Price: $4,120
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 42%
Total Enrollment: 2,149
Undergrad Students: 2,033
Graduate Students: 116
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Score: 65.59

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,375
- Out-of-State: $19,505
Net Price: $10,979
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 58%
Total Enrollment: 17,978
Undergrad Students: 14,198
Graduate Students: 3,780
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Elon University

Score: 64.95

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,574
- Out-of-State: $20,574
Net Price: $41,527
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 83%
Total Enrollment: 7,123
Undergrad Students: 6,337
Graduate Students: 786
Grads Salary: $69,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

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Wingate University

Score: 64.88

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,600
- Out-of-State: $12,600
Net Price: $18,823
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 57%
Total Enrollment: 3,396
Undergrad Students: 2,510
Graduate Students: 886
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Queens University of Charlotte

Score: 64.32

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,520
- Out-of-State: $14,520
Net Price: $29,459
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 1,873
Undergrad Students: 1,317
Graduate Students: 556
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Fayetteville State University

Score: 63.99

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,438
- Out-of-State: $14,503
Net Price: $6,355
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Retention Rate: 70%

Graduation Rate: 44%
Total Enrollment: 6,787
Undergrad Students: 5,748
Graduate Students: 1,039
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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Lees-McRae College

Score: 63.99

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,000
- Out-of-State: $9,000
Net Price: $24,108
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 46%
Total Enrollment: 855
Undergrad Students: 855
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Guilford College

Score: 63.5

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,880
- Out-of-State: $14,880
Net Price: $23,882
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 1,167
Undergrad Students: 1,129
Graduate Students: 38
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Salem College

Score: 62.8

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,300
- Out-of-State: $6,300
Net Price: $18,354
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 469
Undergrad Students: 364
Graduate Students: 105
Grads Salary: $62,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

University of North Carolina at Asheville

Score: 62.59

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,914
- Out-of-State: $21,236
Net Price: $14,730
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 59%
Total Enrollment: 2,914
Undergrad Students: 2,914
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $58,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Catawba College

Score: 62.01

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,594
- Out-of-State: $3,594
Net Price: $19,701
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 65%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 1,172
Undergrad Students: 1,094
Graduate Students: 78
Grads Salary: $63,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Campbell University

Score: 61.89

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,996
- Out-of-State: $14,996
Net Price: $24,280
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 5,272
Undergrad Students: 2,965
Graduate Students: 2,307
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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University of Mount Olive

Score: 61.35

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $18,300
- Out-of-State: $18,300
Net Price: $17,878
Acceptance Rate: 75%
Retention Rate: 63%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 2,239
Undergrad Students: 2,019
Graduate Students: 220
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Cost of North Carolina College Education & Salaries

There are several things to consider when it comes to selecting the right school for you. North Carolina, fortunately, offers many schools, many of which have a solid reputation and great academics. Still, the top-ranking schools aren’t always going to have the best program for your chosen major.

Earning potential depends more on your field than what school you go to. So, if your primary concern is finding stable, well-paid work after graduation, you’ll want to select a major that paves the way. STEM fields are always a good bet, but areas like business or marketing might also be good bets.

Consider schools that have a low student to staff ratio. This will allow you to get to know professors, who can provide mentorship and career guidance in addition to lectures. When you work closely with a professor, they may be able to leverage their network when it comes time to lock down an internship or first job. On top of mentorship opportunities, consider whether the school offers access to a job center or alumni group; these resources also rely on connections to help recent grads find work.

Many students take these resources for granted, but those who do their research ahead of time and take advantage of what the university offers, will be in the best position to find a job.

Finally, don’t just enroll in the school with the lowest tuition. Sometimes more expensive schools offer larger grants or aid packages to students in need. Explore your options and see what you can get. Still, a school like the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill is about $8,500 per year, compared to Duke or Wake Forest, which cost close to $50,000 annually. UNC has a similar ranking as Duke, but being a public college is considerably more affordable.

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College Cost Analysis - North Carolina vs National

Average North Carolina Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools

In-State Tuition - $7,174

National Average – $9,580

Out-of-State Tuition– $22,968

National Average – $27,437

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

North Carolina falls firmly in the middle of the pack when it comes to financial aid. 63% of FAFSA applicants secured federal funding and on average, students receive $9,989 in annual support. Student aid generally includes federal loans, grants, tax benefits, and work-study access. However, North Carolina public schools tend to cost less than the national average, so in-state residents may get the most bang for their buck by staying local.

Financial Aid	North Carolina	Nationally
Received Federal Grants	63%	37.7%
Average $ per Recipient	$9,989	$10,927

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Scholarships for North Carolina College Students

According to the College Foundation of North Carolina, the state offers over $600 million in scholarships and grants. Many require students to fill out the FAFSA before applying to demonstrate need. The application functions as a gateway to many federal and state-funded scholarships, as well as other need-based awards offered through private foundations or organizations.

Students who don’t qualify for need-based assistance can still apply for other sources of funding. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on test scores or other proof of academic excellence. Other scholarships are offered toward members of a specific group: women, minorities, or the LGBT community. Or specific majors—like nursing students or those pursuing the visual arts.

In any case, there are many different sources of funding available—you may need to do a little research. Here are some scholarships offered to North Carolina students:

TAES

The ANSWER Endowment Scholarship

http://answerscholarship.org/
Amounts: varies
Deadline: March 1
The Andersen Nontraditional Scholarship for Women’s Education (ANSWER) is awarded to women 25 or older raising school-aged children. Applicants must be enrolled in a four-year degree program at an accredited North or South Carolina institution. Alternatively, those in a two-year nursing or healthcare program are welcome to apply.

NCSIG

North Carolina Student Incentive Grant

https://www.cfnc.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search/
Amounts: $700 (Varies)
Deadline: FAFSA Deadline
The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority offers a $700 grant to low-income NC students. To apply, students must fill out the FAFSA and be planning to attend an accredited institution in the state of North Carolina.

NCLNASF

North Carolina League for Nursing Academic Scholarship Fund

https://health.uncc.edu/sites/health.uncc.edu/files/media/scholarships/North_Carolina_League_for_Nursing_Academic_Scholarship.pdf
Amounts: $500-$2,000
Deadline: March 15
The NLN offers a $2,000 scholarship to students pursuing a graduate degree in nursing. To qualify, you must have completed six semester hours of coursework and be a legal North Carolina resident.

NCSAS

North Carolina Sheriffs Association Scholarships

https://ncsheriffs.org/about/scholarships
Amounts: $2,000
Deadline: Varies by institution
The North Carolina Sheriffs Association offers 12 scholarships to full-time NC students majoring in criminal justice. The $2,000 awards are provided to each of the 12 schools that offer criminal justice degrees in the state and priority is given to the children or stepchildren of a state sheriff.

FFTCS

Foundation for the Carolinas Scholarship

https://abqcf.org/student-aid/scholarships-for-college-students/
Amounts: Varies
Deadline: March 1
This scholarship is for students pursuing a career in the arts in North or South Carolina. Students must demonstrate some talent in their chosen medium. Additionally, only rising juniors or seniors in good academic standing may apply.

ALBS

Aubrey Lee Brooks Scholarship

https://www.cfnc.org/pay-for-college/apply-for-financial-aid/aubrey-lee-brooks-scholarship/
Amounts: $12,000
Deadline: January 31
The Aubrey Lee Brooks Scholarship is worth $12,000 and goes to 17 graduating seniors from 14 North Carolina counties. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and plan on attending North Carolina State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, or UNC Greensboro. Students must maintain a 2.7 GPA or higher to renew the scholarship.