Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
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
- Duke University
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- North Carolina State University
- Wake Forest University
- Davidson College +2
- Winston-Salem State University +22
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro +1
- East Carolina University –2
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte –4
- 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 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 Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Other Rankings
- #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
- #13 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #16 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #16 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #16 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #1 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #16 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #16 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #1 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #4 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #2 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #7 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #14 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #16 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
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: $65,805Expenses: $21,267Starting Salary: $114,500Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Duke University known for?
Duke University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Education
- Law
- Sociology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #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 Grad Schools 2025
Other Rankings
- #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #13 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #16 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #2 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #3 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #3 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs 2025
- #3 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2025
- #4 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #4 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2025
- #7 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #9 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #2 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #5 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #14 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #20 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
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: $8,989Expenses: $17,120Starting Salary: $68,800Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #15 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #4 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
- #4 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #4 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #5 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #8 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #9 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #10 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #13 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #16 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #17 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #21 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
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: $8,895Expenses: $17,709Starting Salary: $59,500Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is North Carolina State University known for?
North Carolina State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Engineering
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Education
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Business
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
- #2 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
21%
Graduation
90%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for degree at Wake Forest University
Cost of Degree: $64,758Expenses: $22,798Starting Salary: $79,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wake Forest University known for?
Wake Forest University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
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: $60,050Expenses: $19,175Starting Salary: $71,100Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Davidson College known for?
Davidson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- History
- Political Science
- Economics
- Education
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #3 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #4 Best HBCU Online Programs
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: $6,735Expenses: $16,666Starting Salary: $37,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #2 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #5 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #6 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs 2025
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #8 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #11 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies 2025
- #12 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2025
- #20 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #22 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs 2025
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Education
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: $7,593Expenses: $14,720Starting Salary: $40,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #4 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #2 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
- #2 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #5 5 Inexpensive Online Master's Programs in Library Science
- #6 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs 2025
- #8 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs 2025
- #9 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #11 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #13 Best RN to BSN Online Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs 2025
- #4 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #12 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
- #14 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
65%
Student body
31K
Career Outlook for degree at East Carolina University
Cost of Degree: $7,361Expenses: $16,970Starting Salary: $45,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #3 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #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: $7,214Expenses: $17,458Starting Salary: $50,300Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina at Charlotte known for?
University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Economics
- Engineering
- Business
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- History
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Education
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
- #9 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
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: $6,542Expenses: $20,246Starting Salary: $35,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is North Carolina Central University known for?
North Carolina Central University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Education
- Mathematics
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Political Science
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Biology
- History
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #7 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
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: $7,541Expenses: $15,783Starting Salary: $43,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #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 2024
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in North Carolina
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #7 Best Online Associate in Information Technology
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2025
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2025
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #13 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #13 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #14 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Best RN to BSN Online Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
56%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at Campbell University
Cost of Degree: $40,410Expenses: $23,301Starting Salary: $58,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
14%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Shaw University
Cost of Degree: $17,272Expenses: $13,680Starting Salary: $30,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Shaw University known for?
Shaw University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Education
- Political Science
- Medical
- Communications
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #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: $43,936Expenses: $15,610Starting Salary: $43,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Meredith College known for?
Meredith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Literature
- Communications
- Education
- Biology
- Psychology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #5 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #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: $44,536Expenses: $17,978Starting Salary: $58,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #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
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: $41,140Expenses: $15,870Starting Salary: $39,500Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Guilford College known for?
Guilford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Education
- Literature
- Political Science
- Business
- History
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
- #8 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #12 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #19 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #11 The Most Affordable Traditional MBA Degree Programs for 2024
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: $4,532Expenses: $15,787Starting Salary: $41,300Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Western Carolina University known for?
Western Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- Chemistry
- Biology
- History
- Social Work
- Sociology
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
- #7 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024
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: $7,461Expenses: $14,818Starting Salary: $38,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina at Asheville known for?
University of North Carolina at Asheville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Physics
- History
- Literature
- Biology
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #25 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: $44,208Expenses: $22,212Starting Salary: $42,900Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is High Point University known for?
High Point University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Computer Science
- Economics
- History
- Engineering
- Education
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Communications
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
45%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Warren Wilson College
Cost of Degree: $40,290Expenses: $16,690Starting Salary: $29,500Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Warren Wilson College known for?
Warren Wilson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
- #4 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #18 Best HBCU Online Programs
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: $6,748Expenses: $13,932Starting Salary: $39,300Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
19%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Bennett College
Cost of Degree: $19,140Expenses: $22,824Starting Salary: $32,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bennett College known for?
Bennett College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Social Work
- Education
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Biology
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Private 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: $33,400Expenses: $17,399Starting Salary: $42,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Catawba College known for?
Catawba College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Biology
- Education
- Sociology
- History
- Political Science
- Medical
- Literature
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
- #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: $32,752Expenses: $20,132Starting Salary: $37,400Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Salem College known for?
Salem College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #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: $3,571Expenses: $15,094Starting Salary: $36,400Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina at Pembroke known for?
University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Education
- Mathematics
- History
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Business
- Communications
- Social Work
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
- #5 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA
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: $42,790Expenses: $24,105Starting Salary: $49,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Queens University of Charlotte known for?
Queens University of Charlotte’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Biology
- History
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Earth Sciences
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
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: $41,731Expenses: $18,776Starting Salary: $55,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wingate University known for?
Wingate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Biology
- Education
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
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: $19,500Expenses: $16,656Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Belmont Abbey College known for?
Belmont Abbey College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Literature
- Economics
- History
- Philosophy
- Biology
- Education
- Medical
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #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: $3,969Expenses: $14,338Starting Salary: $34,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Fayetteville State University known for?
Fayetteville State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Education
- History
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Nursing
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
- #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: $7,317Expenses: $19,713Starting Salary: $46,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina Wilmington known for?
University of North Carolina Wilmington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Biology
- Literature
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Philosophy
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
North Carolina’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
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.
- Duke University
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Wake Forest University
- Davidson College
- North Carolina State University
- Guilford College
- Warren Wilson College
- Queens University of Charlotte
- Appalachian State University
- Catawba College
- Johnson C. Smith University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Elon University
- East Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Campbell University
- Salem College
- High Point University
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Meredith College
- Western Carolina University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Barton College
- Wingate University
- University of Mount Olive