Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Public colleges and universities account for almost 75 percent of all undergraduate students in the U.S. The best public colleges in North Carolina provide broad access to reputable degree programs, affordable tuition, and sprawling educational communities.
10 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- East Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- North Carolina Central University
- Appalachian State University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Western Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Winston-Salem State University
- East Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- North Carolina Central University
- Appalachian State University
- Western Carolina University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- East Carolina University 92%
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro 92%
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke 90%
- Western Carolina University 85%
- North Carolina Central University 84%
- Appalachian State University 83%
- Fayetteville State University 81%
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte 80%
- University of North Carolina at Asheville 74%
- Elizabeth City State University 74%
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte 20 to 1
- North Carolina A&T State University 19 to 1
- East Carolina University 18 to 1
- Fayetteville State University 18 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro 17 to 1
- University of North Carolina Wilmington 17 to 1
- North Carolina State University 16 to 1
- Elizabeth City State University 16 to 1
- Appalachian State University 16 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $7,019
- North Carolina State University $6,535
- East Carolina University $4,452
- University of North Carolina Wilmington $4,443
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro $4,422
- Appalachian State University $4,242
- University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,122
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte $3,812
- North Carolina Central University $3,728
- North Carolina A&T State University $3,540
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $10,552
- North Carolina State University $9,095
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro $5,219
- University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,914
- Appalachian State University $4,839
- East Carolina University $4,749
- North Carolina A&T State University $4,745
- North Carolina Central University $4,740
- University of North Carolina Wilmington $4,719
- Western Carolina University $4,435
- Elizabeth City State University
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Winston-Salem State University
- Fayetteville State University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Western Carolina University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Appalachian State University
- North Carolina Central University
- Fayetteville State University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Elizabeth City State University
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Western Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
- North Carolina Central University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17%
- North Carolina State University 47%
- North Carolina A&T State University 56%
- University of North Carolina Wilmington 69%
- Winston-Salem State University 73%
- Elizabeth City State University 74%
- University of North Carolina at Asheville 74%
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte 80%
- Fayetteville State University 81%
- Appalachian State University 83%
- University of North Carolina at Asheville 12 to 1
- North Carolina Central University 14 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke 14 to 1
- Winston-Salem State University 15 to 1
- North Carolina State University 16 to 1
- Elizabeth City State University 16 to 1
- Appalachian State University 16 to 1
- Western Carolina University 16 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro 17 to 1
- Elizabeth City State University $1,000
- Fayetteville State University $1,000
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke $1,000
- Western Carolina University $1,000
- Winston-Salem State University $3,401
- North Carolina A&T State University $3,540
- North Carolina Central University $3,728
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte $3,812
- University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,122
- Appalachian State University $4,242
- Elizabeth City State University $3,375
- Fayetteville State University $3,438
- Winston-Salem State University $3,872
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke $4,280
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte $4,337
- Western Carolina University $4,435
- University of North Carolina Wilmington $4,719
- North Carolina Central University $4,740
- North Carolina A&T State University $4,745
- 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.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
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?
- 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
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of public colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 15 public universities in North Carolina. To be included in our list of the best public colleges in North Carolina, shcools must receive direct funding from the state, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor’s degress.
Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2023
- #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #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 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
- #2 Best Colleges 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 MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #2 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #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
- #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 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #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 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
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools 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
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
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools 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
- #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)
- #9 Best RN to BSN Online
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #11 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 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
- #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools 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
- #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
- #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
- #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 #8 Best Grad Schools 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
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools 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 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
- #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’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
- #7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$4K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
61%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/22
Career Outlook for degree at Western Carolina University
Cost of Degree: $4,532Expenses: $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
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 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
- #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
- #2 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #3 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
50%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
940/16
Career Outlook for degree at Winston-Salem State University
Cost of Degree: $6,735Expenses: $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
- #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
- #25 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #13 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #14 Best HBCU Online Programs #22 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$3K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
42%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
960/19
Career Outlook for degree at Elizabeth City State University
Cost of Degree: $3,412Expenses: $11,669Starting Salary: $32,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Elizabeth City State University known for?
Elizabeth City State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Education
- History
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Business
- Social Work
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Elizabeth City State 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
North Carolina’s Best Public College 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.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- North Carolina State University
- Appalachian State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- East Carolina University
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Western Carolina University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- North Carolina Central University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Winston-Salem State University
Check out our directory of public colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top public colleges in every state.