Most
Affordable Colleges in North Carolina in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Carolina combines foundational coursework with access to a diverse regional economy. Typical classes include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or business consultant. Popular places to study include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Duke University, Wake Forest University, and Appalachian State University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Carolina offers coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, clinical, and biological psychology. Students may explore behavior in practical settings. Popular options include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, North Carolina State University, Wake Forest University, and Appalachian State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or social services worker. Advanced study is usually needed for licensed psychologist positions.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Carolina offers access to research universities and growing technology industries. Programs typically cover programming languages, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and collaborative work. Popular choices include North Carolina State University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and UNC Charlotte. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, data scientists, systems analysts, or cybersecurity analysts.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Carolina combines theory with supervised practice in helping people manage challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, group counseling, multicultural practice, and clinical techniques, alongside field internships. Colleges include Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, UNC Greensboro, UNC Charlotte, and Wake Forest University. Graduates pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance-use counselors in schools, clinics, hospitals, and community agencies.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in North Carolina combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, and nursing ethics. Students develop patient-care, communication, and decision-making skills while preparing for licensure. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, and long-term care facilities. Popular options include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, East Carolina University, and Appalachian State University.

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%, making the overall median substantially lower.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 100.0% of students, 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, while schools in the top 10% average 25,140.5 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,749.0 for men and 2,268.5 for women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,116.68 and 22.29, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,159.87. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 424.18 and 540.45, respectively.
• 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, 56 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, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant numbers, and available degree levels. Also consider SAT and ACT scores, enrollment figures, and graduation rates; the statistics show that costs, aid, and graduation outcomes differ between the overall group and the top 10% of schools.

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 useful planning benchmark for students considering a degree at schools such as UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, or Duke. Your own bill can vary by institution, program, residency status, and housing choices, so treat this statewide average as a starting point rather than a guaranteed price. Before enrolling, compare each college's published cost estimate and ask its financial-aid office about grants, scholarships, and payment plans.

Reported averages are:

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

These figures help plan while keeping the excitement of college in view. Whether you picture campus life in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or Durham, compare each school's total cost of attendance and ask about financial aid. Commuting, shared housing, and used textbooks may also help manage expenses. With planning, a North Carolina degree can feel achievable.

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; an associate degree usually takes two. Your timeline can vary with your major, course availability, and enrollment pace. UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, and Duke offer four-year pathways. Statewide, the average graduation rate is 50.73%, so about half complete; it is 83.2% at the top 10% of schools. Rates average 44.12% for men and 54.46% for women, highlighting differences in completion outcomes.

You may finish sooner by planning credits early and checking transfer policies with your chosen North Carolina institution. Planning can make finishing sooner feel possible for you, too.

• Earn college credits in high school through AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses, if accepted by your program.
• Start at a North Carolina community college, then transfer eligible credits toward a bachelor's degree.
• Take summer classes or an approved heavier course load; confirm prerequisites and scheduling to avoid delays.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in North Carolina earn a median alumni salary of about $42,469. At schools ranked among the top 10% in the state, the median is about $58,129 - a promising benchmark as you plan your education and career.

Your own earnings can vary depending on your field of study, experience, and the role you pursue. North Carolina offers many options, from UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University to Duke University, so you can explore programs that fit your goals.

• Statewide median alumni salary: About $42,469
• Median at top 10% of schools: About $58,129

People also ask

What college in North Carolina has the lowest tuition?

For North Carolina residents seeking a public four-year college, Elizabeth City State University is often among the least expensive options in the UNC System. Your actual cost depends on the academic year, fees, and whether you qualify for financial aid. Community colleges may cost less for many programs, so compare total costs for your intended path.

What college in North Carolina has the lowest GPA requirement?

There isn't one college that can be named as having North Carolina's lowest GPA requirement for every program. Many of the state's community colleges have open-door admission for general study, meaning a minimum high-school GPA may not be required. Selective programs can set higher standards, so check the admissions rules for the specific program you're considering.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in North Carolina Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is a large public research university in Chapel Hill, offering a classic college-town setting and broad academic options. For North Carolina students, its 34,099 enrolled students create a sizable campus community. The university reports a 91% graduation rate and 15% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $39,228, while median alumni salary is $50,569. That makes it the highest-cost option listed, alongside the strongest graduation rate among these schools.

North Carolina A&T State University, located in Greensboro, is a public, historically Black university with a strong community identity and a wide range of academic programs. Its 14,311 students offer a mid-sized campus option for North Carolina residents. The reported graduation rate is 57%, acceptance rate 50%, total cost $17,400, and median alumni salary $45,297. Among these five schools, it has the lowest listed total cost, which may matter when comparing in-state study options and planning a manageable college budget.

East Carolina University in Greenville is a public university with a welcoming campus and programs spanning many fields. For North Carolina students looking beyond the Triangle, its eastern location offers a distinct regional college experience. Enrollment is 27,153, with a 63% graduation rate and an 89% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $20,729, and median alumni salary is $47,827. Its high acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a broad opportunity to pursue a degree close to home.

Appalachian State University in Boone is a public university known for its scenic mountain setting and strong campus traditions. For North Carolina residents, studying there can mean a close-knit college experience in the state's High Country. It enrolls 21,798 students, reports a 75% graduation rate and a 90% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $21,875, while median alumni salary is $42,100. These figures position it as a mid-cost option among the five schools, with a graduation rate above three peers.

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) is a public university in a diverse city, offering students a broad range of academic choices and an urban campus experience. Its 18,682 enrolled students make it a substantial option for North Carolina residents. UNCG reports a 56% graduation rate and an 89% acceptance rate. At $20,773, its cost is below Appalachian State and UNC Chapel Hill, making it worth comparing for budget-conscious applicants seeking an urban in-state campus experience.