Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Small colleges in North Carolina are a great option for students interested in a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Whether the focus is on the technical or on the liberal arts, small colleges give you the chance to pursue a well-rounded education while working closely with classmates and professors in a dynamic community atmosphere.
10 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- Davidson College
- Campbell University
- Meredith College
- Shaw University
- Queens University of Charlotte
- Catawba College
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Guilford College
- Warren Wilson College
- Salem College
- Davidson College
- Winston-Salem State University
- Shaw University
- Campbell University
- Meredith College
- Guilford College
- Johnson C. Smith University
- Warren Wilson College
- University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Bennett College
- Belmont Abbey College 97%
- Barton College 95%
- Campbell University 89%
- Salem College 87%
- Wingate University 86%
- Greensboro College 84%
- Guilford College 84%
- Warren Wilson College 84%
- University of Mount Olive 75%
- University of North Carolina at Asheville 74%
- Elizabeth City State University 16 to 1
- University of Mount Olive 16 to 1
- Salem College 16 to 1
- Winston-Salem State University 15 to 1
- Wingate University 15 to 1
- Pfeiffer University 14 to 1
- Barton College 13 to 1
- Montreat College 13 to 1
- Livingstone College 13 to 1
- Campbell University 13 to 1
- Davidson College $57,340
- Meredith College $42,540
- Guilford College $41,140
- Queens University of Charlotte $40,830
- Wingate University $40,806
- Campbell University $39,230
- Warren Wilson College $38,450
- Mars Hill University $36,557
- Barton College $34,400
- North Carolina Wesleyan University $34,352
- Warren Wilson College $20,950
- Guilford College $19,200
- Johnson C. Smith University $18,308
- University of Mount Olive $18,300
- Belmont Abbey College $16,680
- Campbell University $14,417
- Meredith College $13,357
- Queens University of Charlotte $12,914
- Mars Hill University $12,684
- North Carolina Wesleyan University $12,600
- Pfeiffer University
- Brevard College
- Barton College
- North Carolina Wesleyan University
- Montreat College
- Livingstone College
- University of Mount Olive
- Mars Hill University
- Elizabeth City State University
- Johnson C. Smith University
- North Carolina Wesleyan University
- Pfeiffer University
- Brevard College
- Barton College
- University of Mount Olive
- Montreat College
- Belmont Abbey College
- Livingstone College
- Elizabeth City State University
- Greensboro College
- Davidson College 17%
- Johnson C. Smith University 25%
- Brevard College 40%
- Bennett College 45%
- Shaw University 61%
- Livingstone College 64%
- Catawba College 67%
- North Carolina Wesleyan University 68%
- Montreat College 68%
- Pfeiffer University 69%
- Bennett College 6 to 1
- Warren Wilson College 8 to 1
- Queens University of Charlotte 9 to 1
- Davidson College 9 to 1
- Meredith College 10 to 1
- Brevard College 10 to 1
- Greensboro College 10 to 1
- Catawba College 11 to 1
- Johnson C. Smith University 11 to 1
- Mars Hill University 11 to 1
- Elizabeth City State University $1,000
- Winston-Salem State University $3,401
- University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,122
- Shaw University $16,480
- Livingstone College $18,296
- Belmont Abbey College $18,500
- Bennett College $18,550
- Johnson C. Smith University $19,504
- Greensboro College $19,620
- University of Mount Olive $23,591
- Elizabeth City State University $3,375
- Catawba College $3,594
- Winston-Salem State University $3,872
- Greensboro College $4,308
- University of North Carolina at Asheville $4,914
- Salem College $8,100
- Montreat College $9,963
- Barton College $10,296
- Shaw University $10,404
- Brevard College $10,800
Key Takeaways
- North Carolina has more than 60 public colleges and universities, including more than 30 fully accredited small colleges with less than 5,000 students.
- North Carolina is a hub for innovation and technology. As such, colleges in North Carolina award more than 25,000 STEM degrees each year.
- North Carolina has a relatively low cost of living compared to other states, which is a great benefit to students. Even better, the state has a large number of scholarships and grants available to qualifying students, which makes attending a small college in North Carolina even more affordable.
Small Colleges, Big Outcomes
North Carolina is a perfect home for education excellence. The state has 53 liberal arts colleges and universities, and is home to the third biggest community college system in the US. North Carolina also has three Tier 1 research universities. Its education institution always awards more than 25,000 STEM degrees annually.
What makes North Carolina conducive to learning is the fact that students have so much to do outside the classrooms. Whether they relax on the beach, root for their favorite college or professional football team, drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, see a musical play, visit museums, or dine on exquisite cuisine, North Carolina is indeed very diverse and has so much to offer.
Paying for College in North Carolina
Like any college and university, there are several grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and other forms of financial aid for qualified students. Whether attending a liberal arts college, a small college, or a private institution, so many students have taken advantage of favorable NC tuition rates.
Federal Grants Programs
Federal Pell Grants: These are for undergraduate students who have not yet earned a degree (bachelor’s, graduate, or professional), and are in financial need.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): These are awarded to undergraduate students who are in dire need of financial assistance. The grants are administered by the participating school’s financial aid offices. These grants are not available in all colleges, so it’s best to check first with the financial aid office of your school.
TEACH or Teacher Education Assistance for College & Higher Education Grants: These are open for qualified undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or graduate students who want to become teachers in a high-need field or low-income areas. Students should meet certain academic requirements to be eligible.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants: This grant type is for the children of guardians or parents who perished in the military in Afghanistan or Iraq after 9/11. To qualify, a student should be under 24 and is enrolled in college at the time of the guardian/parent’s death.
North Carolina School State Grants
North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship: This grant is open to North Carolina residents who are in financial need. The student must be enrolled in an NC Community College or any of the 16 UNC system campuses.
UNC Need-Based Grant: This is open to NC students with financial needs, and must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours at any of the 16 UNC system campuses.
Scholarships
There are so many scholarships that North Carolina offers to its students. Here are just a few:
Aubrey Lee Brooks Scholarship:This is a $12,000 scholarship open to graduating high school seniors from any of the 14 county areas in North Carolina. This scholarship is renewable, as long as the scholar has continued financial needs and remains a full-time student at an eligible institution.
Lenoir-Rhyne University Lutheran Scholarship: The LR Scholars Program grants eligible Lutheran students two awards: the Martin Luther Fellows and the Friends in Faith Program. These scholarships are available exclusively for undergraduate NC students who have contributions to church and community.
NACME Scholars (Block Grant) Program: This is the biggest college scholarship provider for underrepresented minority students who are pursuing degrees at schools of engineering. With a $16,000 grant for every qualified student, the NACME program sponsors 1,000 underrepresented minority engineering and computer students every year.
NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarship: The National Association of Independent Automobile Dealers offers many scholarship opportunities for exceptional high school graduating students interested to pursue a career in the automotive industry.
North Carolina Student Incentive Grant: This is a $700 incentive grant program offered by the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority through College Foundation Inc.
Riding Forward Scholarship: If you have an interesting story about an African-American who has immensely inspired you, then you could earn a $3500-$5,000 college scholarship.
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
The following list of the best small colleges and universities in North Carolina is composed mainly of four-year undergraduate schools (though a handful also offer graduate programs). We’ve identified 33 small colleges in North Carolina. The list below of the 25 best small colleges in North Carolina. To be included schools must fully accredited, and must have student body populations below 5,000 students.
Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2023
- #4 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #2 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #5 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
92%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1425/32
Career Outlook for degree at Davidson College
Cost of Degree: $60,050Expenses: $19,175Starting Salary: $71,100Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Davidson College known for?
Davidson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- History
- Political Science
- Economics
- Education
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in North Carolina
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #7 Best Online Associate in Information Technology
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2025
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2025
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #13 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #13 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #14 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Best RN to BSN Online Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
56%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at Campbell University
Cost of Degree: $40,410Expenses: $23,301Starting Salary: $58,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Campbell University known for?
Campbell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Campbell University’s Online Degrees
BAS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Accounting
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Information Technology And Security
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology And Security
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Pre-Law
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Pre-Law
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice Administration
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Homeland Security
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Homeland Security
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education (K-6)
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Christian Studies
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Generalist
- Public Relations And Corporate Communication
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Liberal Arts
Degree Concentrations
- Humanities
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Healthcare Management
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #11 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
68%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/25
Career Outlook for degree at Meredith College
Cost of Degree: $43,936Expenses: $15,610Starting Salary: $43,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Meredith College known for?
Meredith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Literature
- Communications
- Education
- Biology
- Psychology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
14%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Shaw University
Cost of Degree: $17,272Expenses: $13,680Starting Salary: $30,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Shaw University known for?
Shaw University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Education
- Political Science
- Medical
- Communications
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #14 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
69%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1167/25
Career Outlook for degree at Queens University of Charlotte
Cost of Degree: $42,790Expenses: $24,105Starting Salary: $49,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Queens University of Charlotte known for?
Queens University of Charlotte’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Biology
- History
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Earth Sciences
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #12 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
56%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/22
Career Outlook for degree at Catawba College
Cost of Degree: $33,400Expenses: $17,399Starting Salary: $42,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Catawba College known for?
Catawba College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Biology
- Education
- Sociology
- History
- Political Science
- Medical
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
Catawba College’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Business Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Professional Accounting
- Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAE in Birth-Kindergarten Education.
- Required Credits: 56
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
59%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1242/24
Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Asheville
Cost of Degree: $7,461Expenses: $14,818Starting Salary: $38,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina at Asheville known for?
University of North Carolina at Asheville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Physics
- History
- Literature
- Biology
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
49%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1045/21
Career Outlook for degree at Guilford College
Cost of Degree: $41,140Expenses: $15,870Starting Salary: $39,500Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Guilford College known for?
Guilford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Education
- Literature
- Political Science
- Business
- History
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
45%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Warren Wilson College
Cost of Degree: $40,290Expenses: $16,690Starting Salary: $29,500Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Warren Wilson College known for?
Warren Wilson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #14 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
62%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Salem College
Cost of Degree: $32,752Expenses: $20,132Starting Salary: $37,400Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Salem College known for?
Salem College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
19%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Bennett College
Cost of Degree: $19,140Expenses: $22,824Starting Salary: $32,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bennett College known for?
Bennett College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Social Work
- Education
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Biology
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
47%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1045/22
Career Outlook for degree at Belmont Abbey College
Cost of Degree: $19,500Expenses: $16,656Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Belmont Abbey College known for?
Belmont Abbey College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Literature
- Economics
- History
- Philosophy
- Biology
- Education
- Medical
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #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
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
57%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/21
Career Outlook for degree at Wingate University
Cost of Degree: $41,731Expenses: $18,776Starting Salary: $55,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wingate University known for?
Wingate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Biology
- Education
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
40%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Greensboro College
Cost of Degree: $20,400Expenses: $16,445Starting Salary: $41,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Greensboro College known for?
Greensboro College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Religious Studies
- Business
- Education
- Political Science
- Psychology
- History
Most Influential Alumni
Greensboro College’s Online Degrees
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Leadership And Management
- Required Credits: 72
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in General Psychology
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
25%
Graduation
43%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Johnson C. Smith University
Cost of Degree: $20,480Expenses: $15,464Starting Salary: $31,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Johnson C. Smith University known for?
Johnson C. Smith University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Mathematics
- History
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Medical
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Chemistry
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #25 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #13 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #22 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024 #5 The Most Affordable Traditional MBA 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
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
41%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Mars Hill University
Cost of Degree: $37,270Starting Salary: $33,800What is Mars Hill University known for?
Mars Hill University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Business
- Literature
- Biology
- History
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2025 #6 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs #11 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
49%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Mount Olive
Cost of Degree: $25,950Expenses: $14,562Starting Salary: $43,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Mount Olive known for?
University of Mount Olive’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Mount Olive’s Online Degrees
BA in Accounting
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Agribusiness
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Agricultural Communication And Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Finance
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Marketing
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Computer Information Systems
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice And Criminology
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education (B-K)
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Services
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Religion
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Healthcare Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 126-141
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
26%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
880/17
Career Outlook for degree at Livingstone College
Cost of Degree: $18,296Expenses: $10,094Starting Salary: $26,100Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Livingstone College known for?
Livingstone College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- History
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Biology
- Education
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in North Carolina #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2025 #12 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #14 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
42%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Montreat College
Cost of Degree: $33,860Expenses: $13,430Starting Salary: $42,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Montreat College known for?
Montreat College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- History
- Biology
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Business
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
Montreat College’s Online Degrees
BS in Bachelor Of Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Bachelor Of Science In Human Services
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #16 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #24 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
38%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $35,536Expenses: $15,294Starting Salary: $41,900Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is North Carolina Wesleyan University known for?
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
48%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Barton College
Cost of Degree: $35,600Expenses: $16,550Starting Salary: $39,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Barton College known for?
Barton College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- History
- Biology
- Communications
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Literature
- Education
- Mathematics
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Barton College’s Online Degrees
BA in Business
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Justice Administration
- Required Credits: 42
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Rn To Bsn Nursing
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
36%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1060/20
Career Outlook for degree at Brevard College
Cost of Degree: $31,250Expenses: $16,400Starting Salary: $35,300Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Brevard College known for?
Brevard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Religious Studies
- Biology
- Literature
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Mathematics
- Medical
- Psychology
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
- #17 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #22 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025 #24 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
35%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Pfeiffer University
Cost of Degree: $33,930Expenses: $15,020Starting Salary: $45,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pfeiffer University known for?
Pfeiffer University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Pfeiffer University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Management And Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Health Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
North Carolina’s Best Small 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.