Best
Value Colleges in North Carolina in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Carolina offers preparation in management, finance, marketing, operations, accounting, economics, and business communication. Programs often include statistics, entrepreneurship, business law, and projects addressing real-world challenges. Popular choices include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, UNC Charlotte, East Carolina University, and Appalachian State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, project coordinators, or operations managers in industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Carolina offers opportunities at universities such as Duke, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State, and Wake Forest. Programs commonly cover developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. A bachelor's degree can support careers in human resources, case management, community outreach, or research assistance; clinical counseling and psychologist roles typically require graduate study and relevant licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Carolina offers programming foundations and access to a technology and research economy. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and computer networks. Students gain practical experience through projects, internships, and labs. Popular choices include North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and UNC Charlotte. Graduates commonly become software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or systems engineers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Carolina combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, and group counseling with field experience. Students explore school counseling, mental health counseling, or marriage and family therapy. Schools include Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, UNC Greensboro, UNC Charlotte, and Wake Forest University. Graduates pursue roles such as school counselor, professional counselor, behavioral health counselor, or substance use counselor, subject to licensure and credentials.

Nursing

Studying nursing in North Carolina combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and pediatric nursing. Programs are offered at popular institutions such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, East Carolina University, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and public health.

Best Colleges in North Carolina Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 21,120.0, compared with 41,924.2 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 20,804.2.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 67.09% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.09%. Schools receive an average of 9,834.97 applicants, compared with 25,140.5 applicants at schools in the top 10%.
• The median number of applicants is 1,749.0 for men and 2,268.5 for women.
• Average scores are 1,116.68 on the SAT and 22.29 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,159.87, including averages of 424.18 enrolled men and 540.45 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 50.73%, compared with 83.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 41.0% for men and 54.0% for women.
• There are 25 institutions offering associate's degrees, 68 offering bachelor's degrees, 60 offering master's degrees, and 18 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 64 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and average applicant numbers, while also having higher average graduation rates; students can consider these comparisons in light of their own priorities.

How much does studying at a college in North Carolina cost?

The average total cost of studying in North Carolina is $25,670.68, a helpful statewide benchmark as you plan for a degree.

• Average tuition and fees: $24,166.38.
• Average room and board: $13,380.59.
• Average books and supplies: $1,033.17.

These figures are separate averages, not a bill to add together. At UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State University in Raleigh, UNC Charlotte, and Duke in Durham, published costs vary by residency, degree, housing, and aid. Comparing tuition, living arrangements, and grants can make budgeting feel more manageable; scholarships or living with family may lower what you pay. Ask each financial aid office for a net price estimate, and budget for transportation and personal expenses too. Treat the statewide figure as a starting point, not a guaranteed bill or full four-year degree total at the college and program you select. Check current campus estimates, since costs and aid can change from year to year.

How long does it take to finish college in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes two. Students at UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, or Duke generally follow the four-year bachelor's timeline, though major requirements, course availability, or part-time study can extend it.

The average graduation rate is 50.73%, or roughly half; among the top 10% of schools, it is 83.2%. The averages are 44.12% for men and 54.46% for women. These figures show that completion varies, so ask colleges about support and outcomes for your intended program.

You can potentially graduate sooner by applying AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible courses, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated plan. North Carolina community-college transfer pathways may let you enter a university with credits already completed. Check with an adviser early to confirm credits fit your major and keep your four-year goal on track.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in North Carolina, the median alumni salary is about $42,469. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to about $58,129 - a promising benchmark as you consider how your degree could support your next step.

Your own earnings can vary based on your field, experience, location, and employer. North Carolina offers many paths to explore at schools such as UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, Duke, and Appalachian State. Comparing programs and career opportunities can help you find a degree that fits both your interests and your goals.

People also ask

What college in North Carolina has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one single answer unless you specify the type of college and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. North Carolina community colleges generally offer the lowest tuition for students seeking affordable coursework. Among four-year public universities, Elizabeth City State University is often one of the least expensive for North Carolina residents. Compare total costs, including fees, housing, and financial aid, before deciding.

What are Tier 1 schools in North Carolina?

"Tier 1" is an informal term, so the answer depends on the ranking or classification being used. If you mean Carnegie R1 research universities, North Carolina schools commonly included are Duke University, East Carolina University, North Carolina A&T State University, NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC Charlotte, and Wake Forest University. R1 describes research activity, not overall teaching quality or the best fit for every student.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in North Carolina Ranking in 2026-2027

Duke University offers a highly selective option for North Carolina students seeking a degree in a research-focused academic community. It enrolls 17,325 students, with a 6% acceptance rate and a 97% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $66,325, while median alumni salary is $84,014. Known for its strong academic reputation and campus in Durham, Duke may appeal if you want extensive university resources and career possibilities, and can manage a comparatively high cost of attendance within the state.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public university with a broad range of degree programs and a spirited campus community. For North Carolina residents, its listed total study cost of $39,228 may be a more affordable in-state option than some private colleges. UNC enrolls 34,099 students, admits 15% of applicants, and graduates 91%. Median alumni salary is $50,569. Its Chapel Hill setting offers a classic college-town experience with opportunities for campus involvement and exploration.

Wake Forest University is a private university in Winston-Salem, offering an intimate campus environment and a strong focus on undergraduate learning. For North Carolina students, the listed total cost of study is $66,470, with median alumni salary of $53,930. The university enrolls 9,633 students, has a 22% acceptance rate, and a graduation rate of 89%. Consider its smaller scale and private-school cost alongside its outcomes when comparing degree options across the state and weighing your personal priorities for college.

Davidson College is a small liberal arts college in the town of Davidson, offering an undergraduate-focused setting for students who value close academic engagement. Its enrollment is 1,860, with a 13% acceptance rate and a 91% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $63,850, and median alumni salary is $49,550. For North Carolina students, Davidson combines an in-state location with a selective admissions process and a private-college price, making careful financial planning important as you consider degree options in-state.

North Carolina A & T State University is a public historically Black university in Greensboro, with a community-centered campus and a range of academic pathways. It enrolls 14,311 students, has a 50% acceptance rate, and a 57% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $17,400, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $45,297. For North Carolina students, its lower cost and in-state location may make it worth exploring, while weighing graduation outcomes and program fit.