2024 Best Colleges in North Carolina

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1-25 of 76 results

#1 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1212 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Duke is a great community! While classes were difficult, challenged us to think critically, and were competitive by nature, I believe Duke students worked hard to help each other learn and succeed.....
Read 1212 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $23,694,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Junior: I’m a junior at Davidson, and I still have absolutely no regret about my decision years later. The campus is stunning and located in a beautiful, quaint town. It is not too far outside of Huntersville, Mooresville, and Cornelius, which all have a lot to do. The food options are great for a small school. We have create own pizza, sushi, hot dog stations, pho, smoothies, burritos, etc. Our campus cafe (Summit) is also incredible with breakfast options and iced coffees. The freshman dorm quality varies but upperclassmen dorms are top notch. D1 sports (esp basketball scene) is hard to come by at a small school. The career services are unmatched. When applying for internships, I feel I always have an advantage just because of all our seminars, workshops, and on-site cover letter and resume editing. Most of all, the PEOPLE and the professors and so flexible and always willing to help. I don’t find that Davidson is competitive. Most professors will prioritize your mental health. COME! :)... Read 347 reviews
#2 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Davidson College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DAVIDSON, NC,
347 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I’m a junior at Davidson, and I still have absolutely no regret about my decision years later. The campus is stunning and located in a beautiful, quaint town. It is not too far outside of....
Read 347 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $26,704,
SAT Range: 1350-1500,
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Other: I attended UNC-CH from 1981-1985 and had the time of my life! From the general area to student life and the local area, I met life-long friends in the dorm, in class, in the spiritual and Christian campus fellowships, cultural groups, choirs, and even off-campus. The professors and department workers were accessible and easy to get along with. They were knowledgeable, caring and helpful. If I had to go back and choose again, I would definitely choose this same school. Up 'til my final year, I did not have summer school experience, so I chose to take a few summer school courses and stay on campus, just to see what it was like. Getting an A was even easier for me during the summer, and since the student population was smaller, we seemed even closer and got to know more people better. My only regret was not attending summer school earlier before my last summer.... Read 2,686 reviews
#3 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHAPEL HILL, NC,
2686 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Other says I attended UNC-CH from 1981-1985 and had the time of my life! From the general area to student life and the local area, I met life-long friends in the dorm, in class, in the spiritual and Christian....
Read 2686 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $10,614,
SAT Range: 1350-1530,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
SponsoredCollege
North Carolina State University
4 Year·
RALEIGH, NC
·
Rating 3.85 out of 5 3,478
SponsoredCollege
Regent University
4 Year·
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
·
Rating 3.99 out of 5 1,051
SponsoredCollege
Johnson & Wales University - Charlotte
4 Year·
CHARLOTTE, NC
·
Rating 3.89 out of 5 682
Sophomore: From the moment of stepping on to campus at Wake Forest, the overall engaging environment allowed me to feel connected to my peers in ways that I never felt before. I enjoyed the scenery and the calming nature around that could keep me at peace despite anything going on in my personal life. Wake Forest places brilliant scholars in their school who helped sharpen my intelligence this past year. Understanding the precious opportunity that attending Wake Forest holds, I was able to create meaningful relationships this past year that I hope to maintain for the rest of my life. The overall experience was pleasant, but I do believe that the Wake Forest community could benefit from expressing the events across campus more often.... Read 877 reviews
#4 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Wake Forest University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WINSTON-SALEM, NC,
877 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says From the moment of stepping on to campus at Wake Forest, the overall engaging environment allowed me to feel connected to my peers in ways that I never felt before. I enjoyed the scenery and the....
Read 877 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $26,197,
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Junior: As a student who is still at the school, I like to think that I still have a first hand account of some of the issues the school is currently facing, and one of the main issues is construction. With the renovations across campus and Poe Hall, many of the more busy walkways are either partially or entirely unavailable, which can prove problematic when attempting to get from place to place in a timely fashion. That said, there are few other complaints I have with the school, if any. Locationally the school is ideal, being some distance from the city of Raleigh, the school is located comfortably in a suburban area, making both greenways and the city itself easily accessible. The school also offers a wide range of clubs and courses which cover a plethora of different ideas and interests, making the school capable of meeting nearly everyone's interests.... Read 3,478 reviews
#5 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
North Carolina State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
RALEIGH, NC,
3478 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says As a student who is still at the school, I like to think that I still have a first hand account of some of the issues the school is currently facing, and one of the main issues is construction. With....
Read 3478 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 47%,
Net Price: $14,852,
SAT Range: 1280-1460,
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Senior: I like the housing options and the teachers/professors are supportive, especially in the school of dance. Throughout my time I am constantly being challenged in my art and can see improvement semester to semester. I like the performance opportunities UNCSA provides each year. We get many guest artists who choreograph new works for Fall, Winter, and Spring dance. Ballet students also perform as The Nutcracker every year and other classic pieces such as The Firebird or Sleeping Beauty are performed in either winter or spring dance. Furthermore, we are given opportunities to collaborate with other art areas and are encouraged to see productions outside of our major. One thing I would like to see at UNCSA is a better-lit campus at night. The parking lots are a bit further from the dance building.... Read 270 reviews
#6 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WINSTON SALEM, NC,
270 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I like the housing options and the teachers/professors are supportive, especially in the school of dance. Throughout my time I am constantly being challenged in my art and can see improvement...One thing I would like to see at UNCSA is a better-lit campus at night. The parking lots are a bit further from the dance building..
Read 270 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 32%,
Net Price: $11,251,
SAT Range: 1120-1350,
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Junior: Appalachian State is a great college for those who enjoy the outdoors, local markets/products, and who don't mind bi-polar weather. For those with a car it's nothing but a 20-30 minute drive for panoramic views of the Blue Ridge, wildflower hills, or to swim at a nearby water hole. While the comfort of familiar franchise favorites resides on the mountain, locally owned stores do not compare with their fresh, personalized products. No worries to those who don't have a vehicle there is public transportation called, Appalcart, covering a 20-mile radius around the town of Boone. But if there is a weekend you want to go canoeing, nighttime hiking, or spelunking look no further than the Outing Center at the University's Recreation building. They not only offer programs with transportation, lodging, and food at a low cost but also offer camping gear to rent for personal trips. One thing I would like to see changed at the University would be safe bike lanes and crossing lanes for students.... Read 2,833 reviews
#7 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Appalachian State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BOONE, NC,
2833 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Appalachian State is a great college for those who enjoy the outdoors, local markets/products, and who don't mind bi-polar weather. For those with a car it's nothing but a 20-30 minute drive for....
Read 2833 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 83%,
Net Price: $13,084,
SAT Range: 1100-1270,
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Sophomore: Attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro has been enjoyable so far! For starters, applying to the college is very straightforward, and they have a low barrier to entry. This has made my first time applying to the college stress-free, and it assists in fighting that first step of advancing to college. Secondly UNCG is rich in history and culture, and there are many different stories and tales that will keep anyone who attends here interested. Whether it be scary ghost stories, historical landmarks, superstitions, or an old donut, UNCG's history contains many interesting bits of lore that is waiting to be explored. Moving on to an important section, the quality of education. UNCG's resources regarding education are very adequate, and the professors feel well-versed in their subjects. The schoolwork and resources provided work very well and feel nice and convenient to use. Overall, UNCG has a nice environment to make anyone feel welcome, and is a great choice for anyone.... Read 3,246 reviews
#8 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
GREENSBORO, NC,
3246 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro has been enjoyable so far! For starters, applying to the college is very straightforward, and they have a low barrier to entry. This has made....
Read 3246 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 92%,
Net Price: $10,979,
SAT Range: 1110-1280,
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Sophomore: UNC Charlotte has the best campus! It is super well maintained and always looks really pretty. Everyone is also really chill and relaxed. It is really dead on the weekends, which is shocking at first, but during the school week there are always things happening, that being said it is a really chill environment and doesn’t feel very rushed, even between class periods. I have had mostly good professors and my class work is heavy but it’s doable and most professors seem to be really helpful and caring. On-campus housing is really good, as long as you avoid the older dorm buildings. Some people complain about the dining hall food but I think it’s not that bad and there are plenty of other on-campus food options.... Read 3,539 reviews
#9 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHARLOTTE, NC,
3539 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says UNC Charlotte has the best campus! It is super well maintained and always looks really pretty. Everyone is also really chill and relaxed. It is really dead on the weekends, which is shocking at....
Read 3539 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 80%,
Net Price: $13,951,
SAT Range: 1070-1290,
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Senior: Academically, I feel as though I've had a great experience with the institution! Every professor I've had the pleasure of meeting has been warm, intelligent, and motivating towards their students. I enjoy the academic environment and am growing my knowledge with more time I spend there. Regarding the culture and diversity at the university, I find it extremely lacking. An overwhelming percentage of the demographics are caucasian women, and this creates an unwelcoming environment. As a caucasian woman, I strongly want to see a development in the diversity on campus and within majors. I believe the school would thrive if there was more inclusion of those who aren't women and of other races.... Read 2,040 reviews
#10 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WILMINGTON, NC,
2040 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Academically, I feel as though I've had a great experience with the institution! Every professor I've had the pleasure of meeting has been warm, intelligent, and motivating towards their students. I....
Read 2040 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 69%,
Net Price: $18,709,
SAT Range: 1220-1370,
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#11 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
East Carolina University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
GREENVILLE, NC,
3106 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says As a college student at east Carolina, there was challenges through all the way in school! I wished the housing was affordable so I could live on campus so I can focus on my studies. But I think the....
Read 3106 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 92%,
Net Price: $14,410,
SAT Range: 1020-1170,
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Junior: Western's online programs offer a fantastic opportunity for academic growth with flexibility, allowing students like me to manage studies alongside other commitments. The courses are well-structured, with accessible resources that enable deep engagement with the material at a comfortable pace. The online format has been especially beneficial, fostering interaction and collaboration through intuitive learning platforms and responsive instructors. The discussion forums and virtual group projects bring together diverse perspectives, enriching the learning experience. The support from peers and professors has been invaluable, boosting my confidence and motivation. As summer approaches, I eagerly anticipate taking more classes, continuing my journey of learning and growth at Western. The experience has been transformative, affirming the quality and impact of Western's online programs.... Read 1,651 reviews
#12 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Western Carolina University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CULLOWHEE, NC,
1651 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Western's online programs offer a fantastic opportunity for academic growth with flexibility, allowing students like me to manage studies alongside other commitments. The courses are well-structured,....
Read 1651 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 85%,
Net Price: $13,022,
SAT Range: 1020-1240,
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Freshman: My journey to discovering Meredith College began with curiosity and a deep dive into online research. The more I learned, the more I felt a connection to its values and vision. The feeling was solidified during an open house event where I engaged with the community first hand. Speaking with actual students and dedicated staff, I was fascinated by two aspects that resonated with me: the empowering atmosphere of support and the strong focus on individual growth.... Read 763 reviews
#13 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Meredith College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
RALEIGH, NC,
763 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says My journey to discovering Meredith College began with curiosity and a deep dive into online research. The more I learned, the more I felt a connection to its values and vision. The feeling was....
Read 763 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 73%,
Net Price: $23,259,
SAT Range: 1140-1320,
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Freshman: North Carolina A&T is a wonderful. One of the highlights is the vibrant gospel choir, which brings a sense of community and spiritual uplift meant to the campus. The diversity at A&T creates a rich and inclusive environment where students from various backgrounds can learn and grow together. Additionally, the Aggie Success Leaders (ASL) program does an excellent job in supporting and motivating students, ensuring everyone has the resources and encouragement they need to succeed. This combination of cultural richness, academic support, and community spirit makes North Carolina A&T a dream. Not to mention it being my number one HBCU! I would like to see their website changed. I believe the website could improve. As an incoming freshman, the navigation can be quite confusing, with important information buried under layers of menus. Something with a more detailed to do list!... Read 3,182 reviews
#14 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
North Carolina A&T State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
GREENSBORO, NC,
3182 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says North Carolina A&T is a wonderful. One of the highlights is the vibrant gospel choir, which brings a sense of community and spiritual uplift meant to the campus. The diversity at A&T creates a rich....
Read 3182 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 56%,
Net Price: $9,189,
SAT Range: 960-1140,
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Alum: I loved the classroom experiences and professors at Queens. They are so knowledgeable, kind, and dedicated to helping students succeed in and out of the classroom. One thing that I and other students would like to see change is the options provided in the dining hall. Many students have dietary restrictions and would like to have access to more than one or two options for meals. Other than that, I loved studying here which is why I chose to return to earn my Master's Degree!... Read 621 reviews
#15 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Queens University of Charlotte
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHARLOTTE, NC,
621 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I loved the classroom experiences and professors at Queens. They are so knowledgeable, kind, and dedicated to helping students succeed in and out of the classroom. One thing that I and other students....
Read 621 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 71%,
Net Price: $29,459,
SAT Range: 1080-1240,
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Sophomore: My overall experience with Winston-Salem State University has been incredibly positive. The university provided a welcoming and inclusive environment that fostered both academic excellence and personal growth. The faculty members were knowledgeable and supportive, always willing to go the extra mile to help students succeed. The campus community was diverse and vibrant, offering numerous opportunities for involvement in extracurricular activities and organizations. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on community engagement and service learning, which allowed me to apply my knowledge and skills to real-world issues. Overall, my time at Winston-Salem State University was enriching and fulfilling, preparing me well for future endeavors.... Read 1,310 reviews
#16 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
Winston-Salem State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WINSTON-SALEM, NC,
1310 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says My overall experience with Winston-Salem State University has been incredibly positive. The university provided a welcoming and inclusive environment that fostered both academic excellence and....
Read 1310 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 73%,
Net Price: $14,097,
SAT Range: 830-1050,
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Sophomore: During my first year at UNCA I enjoyed my classes and most of the professors I had were both great people and great instructors. For the size of the campus, the food options were pretty decent but a few more options would be nice. The athletic facilities are mostly top tier with a few exceptions if sports are your kind of thing. Campus life is a little lacking but can be overlooked for the beautiful location and scenery. For a smaller school it checks off the vast majority of boxes many people are searching for in a college.... Read 711 reviews
#17 Best Colleges in North Carolina.
University of North Carolina Asheville
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ASHEVILLE, NC,
711 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says During my first year at UNCA I enjoyed my classes and most of the professors I had were both great people and great instructors. For the size of the campus, the food options were pretty decent but a....
Read 711 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 74%,
Net Price: $14,730,
SAT Range: 1150-1330,
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Sophomore: My experience at Elon thus far has been wonderful and has filled me with a lot of hope for the next 3 years to come. The strong and genuine connections I've made with my professors have assured me that I made the right choice. In the future, I hope to lean on these genuine connections when looking for jobs and internship opportunities. The campus is impeccably maintained, and the dormitories are highly comfortable. While the surrounding area of Elon may have room for improvement, the incredible people I've met and befriended have made my college experience exceptional thus far. I am confident that at the end of my 4 years, I will be set up for success and will have no problem finding a job.... Read 1,575 reviews
Elon University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ELON, NC,
1575 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says My experience at Elon thus far has been wonderful and has filled me with a lot of hope for the next 3 years to come. The strong and genuine connections I've made with my professors have assured me....
Read 1575 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 74%,
Net Price: $41,527,
SAT Range: 1170-1360,
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Pfeiffer University
4 Year,
MISENHEIMER, NC,
284 Niche users give it an average review of 3.4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Pfeiffer truly feels like a home away from home. It is a small school where you build quick and long-lasting relationships both with your peers and professors. I entered college shy and feeling out....
Read 284 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 69%,
Net Price: $21,575,
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Freshman: The culture of the school and the students and staff members made me feel very welcome. The campus is very welcoming and they actually have my major. I also like the fact that they provide free summer school so that students can graduate with in 4 years. I’m also in a mentoring program for the 4 years I will be attending. This will help me with my academics, anxiety and stress levels dealing with my everyday life.... Read 981 reviews
Fayetteville State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
FAYETTEVILLE, NC,
981 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The culture of the school and the students and staff members made me feel very welcome. The campus is very welcoming and they actually have my major. I also like the fact that they provide free....
Read 981 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 81%,
Net Price: $6,355,
SAT Range: 870-1060,
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Senior: Attending North Carolina Wesleyan University has been a huge experience so far as learning new responsibilities. I am a member of the National Honor Society. As a student, I’ve learned to become a better leader and show myself friendly towards others when it comes to communicating. I enjoy meeting and building relationships with my instructors so that they can assist me with any questions I may have throughout the semester. If the instructor is unavailable, tutoring would be a key source for me when there is a problem that I am having. As I grow, I’ve realized that college tutoring is meant to help me improve my work ethics and understand the material of the course. It is always good to ask questions. This scholarship will help relieve stress from the courses that I am currently in. Enrolling in college is a very challenging experience. I will be forever grateful if I am chosen to receive this scholarship.... Read 244 reviews
North Carolina Wesleyan University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ROCKY MOUNT, NC,
244 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Attending North Carolina Wesleyan University has been a huge experience so far as learning new responsibilities. I am a member of the National Honor Society. As a student, I’ve learned to become a...improve my work ethics and understand the material of the course. It is always good to ask questions. This scholarship will help relieve stress from the courses that I am currently in. Enrolling in....
Read 244 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 68%,
Net Price: $18,701,
SAT Range: 860-1120,
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Alum: The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is humbled, but mighty. Nestled in the south east region of the North Carolina state, UNCP reminds it's students of the importance of community. Being known for her diverse student body, UNCP encourages future and current students to be open minded and to learn to embrace the differences in each other. One of the reasons I fell in love with UNCP is because of its "southern native charm." Originally being established as a school for training Native American teachers, this history can be seen and felt throughout UNCP's campus as we house a museum that proudly displays Native American history. Recently the university has began to revitalize down town. This is a change I enjoyed seeing as my time on campus and the community was not as active. As a student we weren't given much to do on and off campus; however, due to the recent changes prompted by the university, I strongly believe that this change will continue to enhance the charm of UNCP.... Read 1,240 reviews
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PEMBROKE, NC,
1240 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is humbled, but mighty. Nestled in the south east region of the North Carolina state, UNCP reminds it's students of the importance of community. Being...Recently the university has began to revitalize down town. This is a change I enjoyed seeing as my time on campus and the community was not as active. As a student we weren't given much to do on and....
Read 1240 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 90%,
Net Price: $8,208,
SAT Range: 890-1140,
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Freshman: As an HBCU, NCCU has a deep-rooted history that you can feel in the air. The community here is incredibly supportive, and I've found a real sense of belonging. The campus itself is vibrant, especially with its proximity to Durham and the opportunities that come with being near the Research Triangle Park. Academically, NCCU offers strong programs, especially in fields like law, education, and business. The faculty are generally supportive and accessible, which has been crucial for my academic journey. The diversity here is also a big plus; it's refreshing to be in an environment where different backgrounds and perspectives are embraced. The campus infrastructure could use some updates in places, and there have been times when communication from administration could have been clearer. It would also be great to see more investment in technology resources and campus facilities to enhance student life even more.... Read 1,134 reviews
North Carolina Central University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1134 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says As an HBCU, NCCU has a deep-rooted history that you can feel in the air. The community here is incredibly supportive, and I've found a real sense of belonging. The campus itself is vibrant,....
Read 1134 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 84%,
Net Price: $13,708,
SAT Range: 810-1130,
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Sophomore: ECSU offers a wide range of academic programs that are well regarded, particularly in fields like aviation science, education, and business. The university provides a solid foundation for students to excel in their chosen careers. The faculty at ECSU are known for their dedication to student success. ECSU prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Students from various backgrounds come together to create a vibrant and supportive community. The university offers numerous research opportunities for students, allowing them to engage in hands-on learning and contribute to important projects in their fields of study. Such a lively campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities. The university also provides a range of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources, helping ensure that students have the help that we all need to succeed. I would recommend this phenomenal school to anyone.... Read 508 reviews
Elizabeth City State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ELIZABETH CITY, NC,
508 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says ECSU offers a wide range of academic programs that are well regarded, particularly in fields like aviation science, education, and business. The university provides a solid foundation for students to....
Read 508 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 74%,
Net Price: $4,120,
SAT Range: 850-1070,
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Sophomore: I love Gardner-Webb! I have found my lifelong friends that I know I can call on for anything. My professors, especially my poltical science professor have all be great. I have learned so much from them and my love for all things history and political science have grown immensely. The food is okay, I firmly believe that it will be better once our Caf opens and there are ample opportunites to plug in with clubs.... Read 800 reviews
Gardner-Webb University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BOILING SPRINGS, NC,
800 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I love Gardner-Webb! I have found my lifelong friends that I know I can call on for anything. My professors, especially my poltical science professor have all be great. I have learned so much from....
Read 800 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 75%,
Net Price: $22,339,
SAT Range: 1020-1210,
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SponsoredCollege
Longwood University
4 Year·
FARMVILLE, VA
·
Rating 3.62 out of 5 1,223
SponsoredCollege
ECPI University
4 Year·
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
·
Rating 4.05 out of 5 1,319
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Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
4 Year·
CONCORD, NC
·
Rating 4.49 out of 5 73

Best Colleges in North Carolina

North Carolina is a beautiful state that offers plenty of unique opportunities for higher education. Several of the top North Carolina Universities are well known for academics and . The state offers educational experiences in more urban settings, like Raleigh and Durham, a sprawling metro area including Chapel Hill and Wake Forest, and more remote locations like Boone, NC.

There are nearly 150 higher education institutions in North Carolina and a good mixture of public colleges, nonprofit private universities, and for-profit educational programs. Both in-state and out-of-state students can find an excellent college in North Carolina that suits their dreams, goals, and ambitions.

Colleges in North Carolina Cities

For example, , a private Christian college, is consistently ranked as one of the best Christian universities in the U.S. and is a top college for public policy studies. It’s also great for college athletes as a Division I school. The Duke Blue Devils have won 17 NCAA national championships with an award-winning women’s golf team, men’s basketball team, and others. The college is located in Durham, offering students the opportunity for a vibrant life both on and off-campus.

We can’t mention Duke without also mentioning their rival, . Students come here to study biology, psychology, and more. Many consider this public research university a “public ivy,” meaning it offers a similar academic experience to Ivy League colleges like Harvard.

is another option in a more urban setting. This private research university is located in Winston-Salem, the fourth largest metropolitan area in the state. It’s a top college for people who want to study business, kinesiology, and communications. There are six colleges, including a school of law, a school of divinity, and a school of medicine, offering over 40 majors here.

North Carolina Rural Universities

is a great public university for people who want access to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Hikers, campers, snowboarders, and skiers will find plenty to do in their free time. Students mention that the school offers an excellent quality of life, attentive professors, and lots of clubs for developing your interests outside of classes.

is located in the small town of Davidson, North Carolina. What makes this college unique is they have removed the need for students to take out any loans. They make sure students can pay for their college experience through grants, college work experience, or parental contributions.

Two Year Universities and Trade Schools in North Carolina

North Carolina also offers educational experiences for those who want to learn a trade or attend . The top two-year institutions include , , and . These community colleges also often function as , with special programs for people who want to get into industries like HVAC, medical assisting, and welding. Community colleges usually have a 100% acceptance rate, allowing anyone to start their educational journey in North Carolina.

2024 Best Colleges in North Carolina

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Duke University

Duke University

Davidson College

Davidson College

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University

University of North Carolina - Greensboro

University of North Carolina - Greensboro

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of North Carolina - Wilmington

University of North Carolina - Wilmington

East Carolina University

East Carolina University

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University

Meredith College

Meredith College

North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T State University

Queens University of Charlotte

Queens University of Charlotte

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University

University of North Carolina Asheville

University of North Carolina Asheville

Elon University

Elon University

Pfeiffer University

Pfeiffer University

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University

North Carolina Wesleyan University

North Carolina Wesleyan University

University of North Carolina at Pembroke