Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025

Badge for BEST IN NORTH CAROLINA COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in North Carolina. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

Key Takeaways

  • The best colleges in North Carolina often offer extensive research opportunities, internships, and partnerships with industries, giving students practical experience and preparation for competitive job markets.
  • Many top colleges in North Carolina provide a lively campus environment with diverse student organizations, athletics, and cultural events, fostering a sense of community and student engagement.
  • These colleges are known for their rigorous academic programs and highly regarded faculty, offering students a quality education across a wide range of disciplines.

10 Best Colleges in North Carolina in 2025

  1. Duke University
  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  3. North Carolina State University
  4. Wake Forest University
  5. Davidson College
    +2
  6. Winston-Salem State University
    +22
  7. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
    +1
  8. East Carolina University
    –2
  9. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
    –4
  10. North Carolina Central University
    –1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best online military friendly programs saw a considerable amount of shuffling. Winston-Salem State University, in particular, was able to move up as a result of the launch of the Health Sciences Innovation Center, which provides state-of-the-art labs and resources for nursing, physical therapy, and other health-related fields, giving students hands-on training with cutting-edge technology. The university has also expanded its student entrepreneurship programs, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and business incubators for students interested in launching startups.

Additionally, WSSU has enhanced its mental health and wellness services, focusing on holistic student support through expanded counseling, wellness workshops, and fitness programs. These improvements reflect the university’s commitment to career preparation, innovation, and student well-being.

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

We’ve identified 49 colleges and universities in North Carolina that meet our criteria. This list of the top 30 colleges in North Carolina below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in North Carolina.

Best Colleges in North Carolina

  1. #1

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $65,805
    Expenses: $21,267
    Starting Salary: $114,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Duke University known for?

    Duke University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Chapel Hill , NC
    #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Cost of Degree: $8,989
    Expenses: $17,120
    Starting Salary: $68,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill known for?

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    North Carolina State University

    Raleigh , NC
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/30

    Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,895
    Expenses: $17,709
    Starting Salary: $59,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is North Carolina State University known for?

    North Carolina State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    North Carolina State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Leadership In The Public Sector
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    Davidson College

    Davidson , NC
    #4 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #2 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Davidson College

    Cost of Degree: $60,050
    Expenses: $19,175
    Starting Salary: $71,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Davidson College known for?

    Davidson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Winston-Salem State University

    Winston-Salem , NC
    #2 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #3 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    940/16

    Career Outlook for degree at Winston-Salem State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,735
    Expenses: $16,666
    Starting Salary: $37,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Winston-Salem State University known for?

    Winston-Salem State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Winston-Salem State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Bachelor Of Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Birth To Kindergarten Education
    • Clinical Laboratory Science
    • Required Credits: 120-126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Bachelor Of Interdisciplinary Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Integrative Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Bachelor Of Science In Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Rn-Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Greensboro , NC
    #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Cost of Degree: $7,593
    Expenses: $14,720
    Starting Salary: $40,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro known for?

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Online Degrees

    BA in Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration (Business Studies)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Information Systems And Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Peace And Conflict Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Birth-Kindergarten Teacher Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Integrated Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BLS in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Philosophy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    East Carolina University

    Greenville , NC
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    31K

    Career Outlook for degree at East Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $7,361
    Expenses: $16,970
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is East Carolina University known for?

    East Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    East Carolina University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Communication
    Degree Concentrations
    • Interpersonal/Organizational
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Industrial Distribution And Logistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management And General Business
    • Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Birth Through Kindergarten (B-K) Teacher Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education (K-6)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Family And Consumer Sciences Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Middle Grades Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in University Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 125-133
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Charlotte , NC
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Cost of Degree: $7,214
    Expenses: $17,458
    Starting Salary: $50,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Charlotte known for?

    University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Online Degrees

    BA in Respiratory Therapy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (Rn To Bsn)
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Engineering Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Electrical
    • Fire Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    North Carolina Central University

    Durham , NC
    #9 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    970/19

    Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina Central University

    Cost of Degree: $6,542
    Expenses: $20,246
    Starting Salary: $35,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is North Carolina Central University known for?

    North Carolina Central University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Appalachian State University

    Boone , NC
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Appalachian State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,541
    Expenses: $15,783
    Starting Salary: $43,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Appalachian State University known for?

    Appalachian State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Appalachian State University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 53
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Workforce Leadership & Development
    • Required Credits: 50-59
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Child Development - Birth Through Kindergarten
    • Required Credits: 63
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 70
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Middle Grades Education
    • Required Credits: 73
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Campbell University

    Buies Creek , NC
    #7 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Campbell University

    Cost of Degree: $40,410
    Expenses: $23,301
    Starting Salary: $58,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Campbell University known for?

    Campbell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Campbell University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Information Technology And Security
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology And Security
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Pre-Law
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Pre-Law
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education (K-6)
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Generalist
    • Public Relations And Corporate Communication
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Arts
    Degree Concentrations
    • Humanities
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    Meredith College

    Raleigh , NC
    #3 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Meredith College

    Cost of Degree: $43,936
    Expenses: $15,610
    Starting Salary: $43,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Meredith College known for?

    Meredith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  18. #15

    Elon University

    Elon , NC
    #1 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #7 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1265/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Elon University

    Cost of Degree: $44,536
    Expenses: $17,978
    Starting Salary: $58,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Elon University known for?

    Elon University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Elon University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management & Entrepreneurship
    • Marketing & Mis
    • Economics & Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Global Studies
    • Community Services
    • Individualized
    • Security Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Guilford College

    Greensboro , NC
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Guilford College

    Cost of Degree: $41,140
    Expenses: $15,870
    Starting Salary: $39,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Guilford College known for?

    Guilford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Western Carolina University

    Cullowhee , NC
    #7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $4,532
    Expenses: $15,787
    Starting Salary: $41,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Western Carolina University known for?

    Western Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Western Carolina University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Innovation Leadership And Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Business Administration And Law
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Concentration In Administration Of Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency And Disaster Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Birth-Kindergarten Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Medical Care
    • Required Credits: 16
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    University of North Carolina at Asheville

    Asheville , NC
    #7 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1242/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Asheville

    Cost of Degree: $7,461
    Expenses: $14,818
    Starting Salary: $38,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Asheville known for?

    University of North Carolina at Asheville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    High Point University

    High Point , NC
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1191/26

    Career Outlook for degree at High Point University

    Cost of Degree: $44,208
    Expenses: $22,212
    Starting Salary: $42,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is High Point University known for?

    High Point University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  24. #20

    Warren Wilson College

    Swannanoa , NC
    #9 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Warren Wilson College

    Cost of Degree: $40,290
    Expenses: $16,690
    Starting Salary: $29,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Warren Wilson College known for?

    Warren Wilson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  25. #21

    North Carolina A&T State University

    Greensboro , NC
    #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina A&T State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,748
    Expenses: $13,932
    Starting Salary: $39,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is North Carolina A&T State University known for?

    North Carolina A&T State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    North Carolina A&T State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Economics
    • Required Credits: 179
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electronics Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • African American Studies
    • Applied Cultural Thought
    • Applied Cultural Thought
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Rn Completion Option
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Agricultural Sciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Agricultural Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Health And Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Bennett College

    Greensboro , NC
    #7 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    19%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bennett College

    Cost of Degree: $19,140
    Expenses: $22,824
    Starting Salary: $32,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bennett College known for?

    Bennett College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Catawba College

    Salisbury , NC
    #6 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #12 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Catawba College

    Cost of Degree: $33,400
    Expenses: $17,399
    Starting Salary: $42,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Catawba College known for?

    Catawba College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Catawba College’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Management
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Professional Accounting
    • Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAE in Birth-Kindergarten Education.
    • Required Credits: 56
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Salem College

    Winston-Salem , NC
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #14 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Salem College

    Cost of Degree: $32,752
    Expenses: $20,132
    Starting Salary: $37,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Salem College known for?

    Salem College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  30. #25

    University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Pembroke , NC
    #4 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #15 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025 #17 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #17 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Cost of Degree: $3,571
    Expenses: $15,094
    Starting Salary: $36,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Pembroke known for?

    University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s Online Degrees

    BIS in Applied Professional Studies (Financial Administration)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration (Finance Track)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration (Marketing)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Applied Professional Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Office Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration (Management Track)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration (Economics Track)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Hospitality
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Public And Nonprofit Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Allied Health Administration
    • Public Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Applied Management Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Operations Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Criminal Justice Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Sociology
    • Substance Abuse
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Applied Education Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Learning And Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  31. #26

    Queens University of Charlotte

    Charlotte , NC
    #5 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #14 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1167/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Queens University of Charlotte

    Cost of Degree: $42,790
    Expenses: $24,105
    Starting Salary: $49,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Queens University of Charlotte known for?

    Queens University of Charlotte’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Wingate University

    Wingate , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Wingate University

    Cost of Degree: $41,731
    Expenses: $18,776
    Starting Salary: $55,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wingate University known for?

    Wingate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  33. #28

    Belmont Abbey College

    Belmont , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Belmont Abbey College

    Cost of Degree: $19,500
    Expenses: $16,656
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Belmont Abbey College known for?

    Belmont Abbey College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  34. #29

    Fayetteville State University

    Fayetteville , NC
    #22 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #8 HBCU MBA Programs Online #8 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024 #14 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    965/16

    Career Outlook for degree at Fayetteville State University

    Cost of Degree: $3,969
    Expenses: $14,338
    Starting Salary: $34,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fayetteville State University known for?

    Fayetteville State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Fayetteville State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire & Emergency Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Intelligence Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Birth Through Kindergarten (Non-Teaching)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English Language And Literature
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Rn-Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  36. #30

    University of North Carolina Wilmington

    Wilmington , NC
    #6 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #11 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #20 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1295/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina Wilmington

    Cost of Degree: $7,317
    Expenses: $19,713
    Starting Salary: $46,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina Wilmington known for?

    University of North Carolina Wilmington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Online Degrees

    BA in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 24
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Clinical Research
    • Required Credits: 83-84
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Back to Top

North Carolina’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Duke University
  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  3. Wake Forest University
  4. Davidson College
  5. North Carolina State University
  6. Guilford College
  7. Warren Wilson College
  8. Queens University of Charlotte
  9. Appalachian State University
  10. Catawba College
  11. Johnson C. Smith University
  12. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  13. Elon University
  14. East Carolina University
  15. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  16. Campbell University
  17. Salem College
  18. High Point University
  19. University of North Carolina at Asheville
  20. Meredith College
  21. Western Carolina University
  22. University of North Carolina Wilmington
  23. Barton College
  24. Wingate University
  25. University of Mount Olive
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