Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
Key Takeaways
- Sixteen schools in North Carolina meet our criteria for the best grad schools in the state.
- Earning a master’s or doctorate degree from one of the state’s best grad schools will qualify graduates to work in one of North Carolina’s top industries.
- It is important to choose a grad school in North Carolina that offers opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
Best Grad Schools in North Carolina in 2025
- Duke University
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- North Carolina State University
- Wake Forest University
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- East Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- North Carolina Central University
- Appalachian State University
- Western Carolina University
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.
There are no changes in our ranking of the best grad schools in North Carolina for 2025. Duke University, the top grad school in North Carolina has expanded their interdisciplinary programs across more than 80 departments, helping grad students to engage in cross-disciplinary research and innovation. For this year, Duke has also launched a new Executive Master of Public Affairs program, appealing to professionals who are interested in transitioning into public service or growing their leadership skills.
For 2025, UNC at Chapel Hill has implemented the largest-ever increase in minimum graduate student stipends. The university is also expanding their research spaces.
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in North Carolina offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
Colleges and Universities in North Carolina
There are over 60 public colleges and universities in North Carolina, 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. The 25,000 students who attend UNC will walk the same halls as Francis Collins, Thomas Wolfe, and former president James K. Polk.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
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.
What are North Carolina’s Colleges & Universities?
- 13 Research Universities
- 36 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 16 Graduate Schools
- 15 Public Colleges & Universities
- 34 Private Colleges & Universities
- 26 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 33 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 22 Affordable Colleges (below 16,000,000/year)
- 48 Community Colleges
- 28 Online Colleges
North Carolina’s Best Overall
There are 16 doctorate-granting graduate schools in North Carolina. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the North Carolina is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools 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 Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #16 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #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 Political Science Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies 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 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 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 Master's in Nursing MSN
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #4 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #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
With a vibrant learning environment, graduate students at Duke University can expect to receive unparalleled support services and training from top-notch instructors.
What we love about Duke University:
The Duke School of Law offers a joint Juris Doctor and Master of Arts degree that allows students to gain comprehensive legal education alongside advanced interdisciplinary studies.
Duke University is ideal for students who:
Want to take up a graduate certificate in Global Health.
Duke University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not interested in meeting new people.
- #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
- #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
- #1 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #2 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #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 Sociology Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies 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 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #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
Eyeing global impact, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides graduate programs that center on leadership and community engagement.
What we love about the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill:
Graduate students are given extra academic boost through workshops and training materials provided by the CareerWell Professional Development program.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is ideal for students who:
Prefer many graduate program choices in the field of Biological Sciences.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill might not be the best fit for students who:
Plan on taking a graduate degree in Civil Engineering.
- #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Colleges 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 Master’s in Counseling
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #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
From Animal Science to Textile Engineering, North Carolina State University offers graduate programs that spark innovation and critical thinking.
What we love about North Carolina State University:
The Wellness Program comes with various activities that encourage stress relief and recreation.
North Carolina State University is ideal for students who:
Are interested in competing for research awards.
North Carolina State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Aren’t enthusiastic about community projects.
- #2 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #4 Best Colleges 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
With an emphasis on collaboration, Wake Forest University makes sure that graduate students are exposed to interdisciplinary research.
What we love about Wake Forest University:
Graduate students can rely on career coaches for assistance in resume improvements, interview preparations, and networking.
Wake Forest University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for on-campus housing options and amenities.
Wake Forest University might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to take up a Master’s in Cybersecurity.
- #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #3 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) 2025
- #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 promotes community involvement through graduate service-learning projects and local partnerships.
What we love about the University of North Carolina at Greensboro:
Exceptional students may be nominated for various Graduate School Fellowships, which provide financial aid.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is ideal for students who:
Seek comprehensive coursework in an Economics Ph.D.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro might not be the best fit for students who:
Aren’t comfortable showcasing their thesis work.
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #8 Best Colleges 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
- #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 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs 2025
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs 2025
- #9 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2025
- #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
As an advocate of change, East Carolina University continues to innovate by offering unique graduate programs and training approaches.
What we love about East Carolina University:
With nearby military bases, the university provides the needed assistance for service members seeking graduate training.
East Carolina University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for dependable disability services.
East Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t openly communicate with colleagues.
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025 #9 Best Colleges 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
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte fosters a balanced learning environment for its graduate students, offering both research and extracurricular activities.
What we love about the University of North Carolina at Charlotte:
The university offers custom graduate courses tailored to the needs of the business community.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is ideal for students who:
Prefer conducting research studies.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not sure what graduate field to pursue.
- #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: $6,542Expenses: $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
Graduate students at North Carolina Central University are given the right mix of support services and engagement opportunities to produce well-rounded professionals.
What we love about North Carolina Central University:
With an extensive curriculum, the Master of Library Science comes with concentrations in areas such as digital libraries and records management.
North Carolina Central University is ideal for students who:
Want to save on tuition through graduate assistantships.
North Carolina Central University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not interested in strengthening their faith.
- #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 #4 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
- #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 graduate training focuses on preparing its students to step into leadership roles in diverse fields.
What we love about Appalachian State University:
Interested graduate students have the opportunity to become ambassadors, representing the school at meetings and proposing service initiatives.
Appalachian State University is ideal for students who:
Are in need of childcare services.
Appalachian State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are hesitant to join professional workshops.
- #7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
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: $4,532Expenses: $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 empowers its graduate students through skills development and access to experiential research projects.
What we love about Western Carolina University:
Aspiring professors may take advantage of the Invest in Teachers Award, which provides tuition support for graduate degrees in Education.
Western Carolina University is ideal for students who:
Prefer no fuss graduate application.
Western Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for graduate fellowship options.
- #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
At High Point University, graduate students are guided by mentors and given flexible learning options to make its programs more accessible.
What we love about High Point University:
Aside from learning life skills, graduate students are also trained to write effective applications and ace job interviews.
High Point University is ideal for students who:
Plan on practicing as a Registered Pharmacist.
High Point University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are cigarette smokers, as the university imposes a strict ban on smoking.
- #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: $6,748Expenses: $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 offers comprehensive classroom discussions and hands-on research work with capable instructors.
What we love about North Carolina A&T State University:
Aside from its doctoral and master’s programs, the university offers graduate certificate add-ons in areas such as Marriage Counseling and Waste Management.
North Carolina A&T State University is ideal for students who:
Want to enroll in a strong MBA program.
North Carolina A&T State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer having more graduate fields of study to choose from.
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
With a high enrollment rate, Wingate University’s popularity rose due to its flexible graduate programs and collaborative environment.
What we love about Wingate University:
The university is one of the leading institutions in healthcare education, offering graduate studies in fields like pharmacy and physical therapy.
Wingate University is ideal for students who:
Aspire to become a Physician Assistant.
Wingate University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are interested in Dental Medicine.
- #10 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #18 Best Online Master's in English 2025 #18 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025 #20 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
52%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1115/22
Career Outlook for degree at Gardner–Webb University
Cost of Degree: $33,450Expenses: $14,170Starting Salary: $41,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Gardner–Webb University known for?
Gardner–Webb University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Nursing
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- History
- Business
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
With a balanced educational approach, Gardner-Webb University integrates curiosity, values, and leadership into its graduate curriculums.
What we love about Gardner-Webb University:
Licensed professionals in fields such as Education and Nursing may seamlessly enroll in a graduate program, benefiting from waived application fees.
Gardner-Webb University is ideal for students who:
Want to fast-track their graduate degrees through accelerated graduate programs.
Gardner-Webb University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to take up a Master’s in Sport Management in a hybrid setup.
- #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
With a proven track record, Fayetteville State University’s Graduate School delivers quality programs that open a lot of career opportunities.
What we love about Fayetteville State University:
The university’s MBA program comes with various specializations, including entrepreneurship, international business, and health informatics.
Fayetteville State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking to enroll in special visiting graduate courses.
Fayetteville State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Avoid attending conferences.
- #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 offers nationally-ranked programs in areas like education and veterinary medicine, that are taught by expert faculty and industry partners.
What we love about the University of North Carolina Wilmington:
Graduate students may choose to take up additional licensure coursework in programs like teaching ESL and elementary mathematics.
University of North Carolina Wilmington is ideal for students who:
Plan on becoming a School Administrator.
University of North Carolina Wilmington might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek doctoral programs outside the field of Education.
North Carolina’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.