Best Colleges in North Carolina 2024

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

10 Best Colleges in North Carolina

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  1. Duke University
  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  3. North Carolina State University
  4. Wake Forest University
  5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  6. East Carolina University
  7. Davidson College
  8. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  9. North Carolina Central University
  10. Appalachian State University
  1. Duke University
  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  3. North Carolina State University
  4. Wake Forest University
  5. Davidson College
  6. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  7. Winston-Salem State University
  8. East Carolina University
  9. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  10. North Carolina Central University
  1. Belmont Abbey College 99%
  2. East Carolina University 94%
  3. University of North Carolina at Pembroke 92%
  4. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 91%
  5. Salem College 90%
  6. Campbell University 87%
  7. Appalachian State University 85%
  8. Wingate University 85%
  9. University of North Carolina at Asheville 82%
  10. Guilford College 82%
  1. University of North Carolina at Charlotte 20 to 1
  2. East Carolina University 19 to 1
  3. North Carolina A&T State University 19 to 1
  4. Western Carolina University 17 to 1
  5. Fayetteville State University 17 to 1
  6. High Point University 17 to 1
  7. University of North Carolina Wilmington 17 to 1
  8. North Carolina Central University 16 to 1
  9. Winston-Salem State University 16 to 1
  10. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 16 to 1
  1. Duke University $60,244
  2. Wake Forest University $59,770
  3. Davidson College $55,200
  4. Meredith College $41,224
  5. Guilford College $41,140
  6. Wingate University $40,170
  7. High Point University $39,752
  8. Queens University of Charlotte $38,726
  9. Elon University $38,725
  10. Warren Wilson College $38,450
  1. Duke University $57,900
  2. Wake Forest University $38,650
  3. High Point University $27,203
  4. Warren Wilson College $20,950
  5. Elon University $18,828
  6. Belmont Abbey College $16,680
  7. Campbell University $14,041
  8. Queens University of Charlotte $13,552
  9. Meredith College $13,194
  10. Wingate University $11,700
  1. Wingate University
  2. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
  3. Winston-Salem State University
  4. Belmont Abbey College
  5. Fayetteville State University
  6. Bennett College
  7. Salem College
  8. Warren Wilson College
  9. Guilford College
  10. University of North Carolina Wilmington
  1. Fayetteville State University
  2. University of North Carolina Wilmington
  3. Belmont Abbey College
  4. Wingate University
  5. Queens University of Charlotte
  6. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
  7. Salem College
  8. Catawba College
  9. Bennett College
  10. University of North Carolina at Asheville
  1. Duke University 6%
  2. Davidson College 18%
  3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 20%
  4. Wake Forest University 25%
  5. North Carolina State University 47%
  6. Catawba College 56%
  7. North Carolina A&T State University 57%
  8. Shaw University 65%
  9. University of North Carolina Wilmington 68%
  10. Queens University of Charlotte 69%
  1. Duke University 6 to 1
  2. Bennett College 7 to 1
  3. Warren Wilson College 9 to 1
  4. Davidson College 9 to 1
  5. Queens University of Charlotte 10 to 1
  6. Wake Forest University 11 to 1
  7. Meredith College 11 to 1
  8. Guilford College 12 to 1
  9. Catawba College 12 to 1
  10. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 13 to 1
  1. Western Carolina University $1,000
  2. University of North Carolina at Pembroke $1,000
  3. Fayetteville State University $2,982
  4. Winston-Salem State University $3,401
  5. North Carolina A&T State University $3,540
  6. North Carolina Central University $3,728
  7. University of North Carolina at Charlotte $3,812
  8. University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,122
  9. Appalachian State University $4,242
  10. University of North Carolina at Greensboro $4,422
  1. Fayetteville State University $3,438
  2. Catawba College $3,594
  3. Winston-Salem State University $3,872
  4. University of North Carolina at Pembroke $4,280
  5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte $4,337
  6. Western Carolina University $4,435
  7. University of North Carolina Wilmington $4,719
  8. North Carolina Central University $4,740
  9. North Carolina A&T State University $4,745
  10. East Carolina University $4,749

Colleges and Universities in North Carolina

Among these schools are over 60 public colleges and universities, including the state’s largest school, North Carolina State University, which serves almost 30,000 students. Tuition costs average about $9,000, just below the national average, and students also have the option to enroll in over 1,000 online courses. Another notable public school is the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which is one of the country’s oldest universities.

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The 25,000 students who attend UNC will walk the same halls as Francis Collins, Thomas Wolfe, and former president James K. Polk. North Carolina’s private schools have also made a name for themselves, including the well-known Duke University located in Durham. Here, students can earn degrees in some of the top programs, like nursing, political science, and business. Additionally, students can attend one of the many small schools which serve less than 5,000 students, like Campbell University in Buies Creek, or a religiously affiliated school, like Mid-Atlantic Christian University in Elizabeth City.

From its coastal beaches to its lush forests, it’s no wonder the Wright Brothers dreamed of taking flight over North Carolina. This state is rich with history, scenic views, and famous people who once called it home, like John Coltrane and Nicholas Sparks. Students hoping to earn their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree also have the option of choosing from over 100 schools in the Tar Heel State.

Whether you prefer ocean views or wooded forests, North Carolina has something for everyone. Discover more about the state’s higher learning options.


What are North Carolina’s Colleges & Universities?

North Carolina’s Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

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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.

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Best Colleges in North Carolina 2023

  1. #1

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $62,688
    Expenses: $20,061
    Starting Salary: $114,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    20%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1385/30

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

    Cost of Degree: $8,989
    Expenses: $16,260
    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

  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/29

    Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,128
    Expenses: $16,624
    Starting Salary: $59,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    North Carolina State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Leadership In The Public Sector
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Cost of Degree: $7,214
    Expenses: $16,446
    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
  5. #6

    East Carolina University

    Greenville , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/21

    Career Outlook for degree at East Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $7,325
    Expenses: $16,488
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  6. #7

    Davidson College

    Davidson , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1380/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Davidson College

    Cost of Degree: $57,090
    Expenses: $18,525
    Starting Salary: $71,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  7. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Cost of Degree: $7,498
    Expenses: $13,052
    Starting Salary: $40,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  8. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    930/17

    Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina Central University

    Cost of Degree: $6,599
    Expenses: $19,403
    Starting Salary: $35,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  9. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Appalachian State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,450
    Expenses: $15,252
    Starting Salary: $43,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  10. #11

    Campbell University

    Buies Creek , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Campbell University

    Cost of Degree: $39,230
    Expenses: $21,310
    Starting Salary: $58,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
  11. #12

    Elon University

    Elon , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Elon University

    Cost of Degree: $42,241
    Expenses: $17,386
    Starting Salary: $58,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
  12. #13

    High Point University

    High Point , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/25

    Career Outlook for degree at High Point University

    Cost of Degree: $41,916
    Expenses: $20,274
    Starting Salary: $42,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  13. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/19

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

    Cost of Degree: $6,733
    Expenses: $12,639
    Starting Salary: $39,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  14. #15

    Meredith College

    Raleigh , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1104/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Meredith College

    Cost of Degree: $42,660
    Expenses: $15,234
    Starting Salary: $43,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  15. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $4,453
    Expenses: $14,888
    Starting Salary: $41,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  16. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1135/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Queens University of Charlotte

    Cost of Degree: $40,830
    Expenses: $17,266
    Starting Salary: $49,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 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

  17. #19

    Catawba College

    Salisbury , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Catawba College

    Cost of Degree: $32,868
    Expenses: $16,410
    Starting Salary: $42,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  18. Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1165/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Asheville

    Cost of Degree: $7,380
    Expenses: $14,220
    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

  19. Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/25

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina Wilmington

    Cost of Degree: $7,238
    Expenses: $19,228
    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
  20. #22

    Guilford College

    Greensboro , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Guilford College

    Cost of Degree: $41,140
    Expenses: $15,670
    Starting Salary: $39,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  21. #23

    Warren Wilson College

    Swannanoa , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Warren Wilson College

    Cost of Degree: $38,450
    Expenses: $15,150
    Starting Salary: $29,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  22. #24

    Salem College

    Winston-Salem , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1076/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Salem College

    Cost of Degree: $31,016
    Expenses: $18,274
    Starting Salary: $37,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Salem College known for?

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

  23. #25

    Bennett College

    Greensboro , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bennett College

    Cost of Degree: $18,400
    Expenses: $21,350
    Starting Salary: $32,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 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

  24. #26

    Fayetteville State University

    Fayetteville , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    920/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Fayetteville State University

    Cost of Degree: $3,906
    Expenses: $13,330
    Starting Salary: $34,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
  25. #27

    Belmont Abbey College

    Belmont , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1075/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Belmont Abbey College

    Cost of Degree: $18,500
    Expenses: $15,858
    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

  26. #28

    Winston-Salem State University

    Winston-Salem , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    965/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Winston-Salem State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,276
    Expenses: $16,136
    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
  27. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1000/19

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Cost of Degree: $3,495
    Expenses: $15,038
    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
  28. #30

    Wingate University

    Wingate , NC

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Wingate University

    Cost of Degree: $40,806
    Expenses: $18,214
    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

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North Carolina’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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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