Best
Colleges in North Carolina in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Carolina combines core business knowledge with practical training in management and decision-making. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, organizational behavior, operations, and entrepreneurship. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or financial analyst. Popular options include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Duke University, Wake Forest University, and East Carolina University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Carolina is possible at colleges such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, North Carolina State University, and Wake Forest University. Programs cover developmental, cognitive, social, abnormal, and psychology, alongside research methods, statistics, and ethics. Students build communication, assessment, and data-analysis skills. Graduates may pursue roles in human resources, case management, community support, behavioral health assistance, or research coordination; advanced study is required for licensed clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Carolina combines theory with technology work. Courses typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Students build projects and may pursue internships with the state's technology and research employers. Popular options include North Carolina State University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and UNC Charlotte. Graduates work as software developers, data analysts, systems administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Carolina can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities across settings. Coursework commonly includes counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical work. Popular options include the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, North Carolina State University, Appalachian State University, and Wake Forest University. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or addiction counselors.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in North Carolina combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or public health agencies. Popular options include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, East Carolina University, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Best Colleges in North Carolina Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 21,120.0, compared with 41,924.2 at schools in the top 10%, indicating substantially higher costs among the highest-ranked schools.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, while the average at top 10% schools is 67.09%.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.09%. Schools receive an average of 9,834.97 applicants, compared with 25,140.5 applicants at top 10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 1,749.0, versus 2,268.5 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,116.68 and 22.29, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,159.87; averages for enrolled men and women are 424.18 and 540.45, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 50.73%, compared with 83.2% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 41.0% for men and 54.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 25 offer associate's degrees, 68 offer bachelor's degrees, 60 offer master's degrees, and 18 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 64 coeducational schools, with 0 schools for men and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, academic and enrollment figures, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and school type. In particular, compare each school's costs and aid availability with its graduation rates and the outcomes that matter most to you.

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

The reported average total cost of studying in North Carolina is $25,670.68. Use this as a broad benchmark while planning: your actual bill will depend on the college, degree, residency status, and housing choices. For a prospective in-state student, comparing campuses and aid packages can make a degree feel more achievable.

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

The averages do not reconcile as one itemized bill, so use them as separate planning references. Costs differ between public universities such as UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State and private schools such as Duke. Check each campus's current cost-of-attendance estimate, then subtract grants and scholarships to understand your likely out-of-pocket amount. Living at home, sharing housing, or buying used books may lower personal expenses. Comparing options is a hopeful, practical first step toward earning a degree close to home in North Carolina.

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

In North Carolina, a full-time bachelor's degree usually takes about four years, while an associate degree commonly takes two. Changing majors, studying part time, or course schedules can make a bachelor's take longer. At UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, Duke, or Appalachian State, your timeline depends on program requirements and credits earned.

The average graduation rate in the data is 50.73%, meaning completion is not guaranteed. The top 10% of schools average 83.2%. Rates are 44.12% for men and 54.46% for women. Graduation rates show why it's worth checking a school's support services and asking how its measure defines the completion period.

• Earn credits faster by bringing in AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, if your college accepts them.
• Summer classes can help you finish sooner through heavier loads or accelerated/online options, if course schedules and costs work.
• Ask an adviser to map prerequisites and transfer credits enrolling; that can prevent delays.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in North Carolina earn a median salary of about $42,469. At schools in the top 10% for alumni salaries, the median is about $58,129. That gives you a useful benchmark as you consider options such as UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, Duke, or East Carolina University.

Your own earnings can vary depending on your degree, career, experience, and location. Fields such as engineering, technology, health care, and business may offer different salary prospects, so it's worth comparing programs and career outcomes as you plan your studies in North Carolina.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in North Carolina?

By total student enrollment, the three largest are North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Recent fall enrollment figures put them at roughly 38,000, 32,000, and 31,000 students, respectively. Each offers a wide range of academic programs and a lively campus community.

How many colleges are there in North Carolina?

There are about 110 institutions across North Carolina's main public and private higher-education groups: 58 community colleges, 16 University of North Carolina public universities, and 36 independent colleges and universities. The exact total depends on what is counted as a college, since some tallies also include specialized, for-profit, or other institutions.

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

Duke University, located in Durham, offers North Carolina students a selective, research-focused college experience with strong academic and campus resources. It enrolls 17,325 students, and its 6% acceptance rate makes admission highly competitive. The graduation rate is 97%, while total study costs are $66,325 and median alumni salary is $84,014. Students can explore a vibrant university setting in the Research Triangle, close to Raleigh and Chapel Hill. Duke may suit applicants seeking extensive opportunities and prepared for a substantial investment.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a major public research university in Chapel Hill, giving in-state students a prominent option close to home. It enrolls 34,099 students, with a 15% acceptance rate and 91% graduation rate. Total study costs are $39,228, and median alumni salary is $50,569. Its lively college-town setting and broad academic offerings can appeal to students seeking campus community, research, and school spirit. Compare residency-based costs and programs when planning your North Carolina degree choice.

Wake Forest University, in Winston-Salem, is a private university known for a close-knit campus and a strong emphasis on undergraduate learning. It enrolls 9,633 students; its acceptance rate is 22%, and its graduation rate is 89%. The total study cost is $66,470, with median alumni salary of $53,930. For North Carolina students, the city offers a different setting from the Triangle, while remaining within the state. Consider its smaller enrollment and higher cost alongside its academic environment and personal support.

Davidson College is a small liberal arts college in Davidson, near Charlotte, offering an intimate campus experience and broad undergraduate study. Its enrollment is 1,860, acceptance rate 13%, and graduation rate 91%. The total study cost is $63,850, while median alumni salary is $49,550. Students from across North Carolina may value its residential community and access to the Charlotte region. With selective admissions and a small student body, Davidson may suit learners seeking close faculty interaction and a traditional campus.

North Carolina A & T State University, in Greensboro, is a public historically Black university with a land-grant mission and a strong community identity. It enrolls 14,311 students, has a 50% acceptance rate, and reports a 57% graduation rate. Total study costs are $17,400, and median alumni salary is $45,297. For North Carolina residents seeking an affordable in-state option, its cost stands out. Its larger campus and Greensboro location offer a distinct pathway to a degree and career after graduation.