North Carolina is home to some of the best colleges in the United States, with numerous institutions that offer excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life. These colleges attract students from all over the country and the world, and they are known for their high-quality education, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.
According to the latest rankings by U.S. News, Duke University is the top-ranked college in North Carolina, followed by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University. Other notable colleges include North Carolina State University, Elon University, and Davidson College. These colleges offer a range of academic programs, from business and engineering to liberal arts and sciences, and they provide students with numerous opportunities for research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Whether you are a high school student looking to apply to college or a parent helping your child navigate the college admissions process, it is important to consider all the factors that go into choosing the right college. Location, size, cost, academic programs, and campus culture can all affect your decision-making process. By researching and comparing different colleges, you can find the best fit for your needs and goals and set yourself up for success in your academic and professional pursuits.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, commonly referred to as UNC Chapel Hill or simply UNC, is a public research university in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is one of the 17 campuses of the University of North Carolina system and is the oldest public university in the United States. UNC Chapel Hill is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country.
Annual Cost
UNC Chapel Hill’s annual cost for in-state students is $8,998, and for out-of-state students, it is $36,159. The university offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, to help students cover the cost of attendance.
Enrollment and SAT Range
As of 2021, UNC Chapel Hill has a total enrollment of approximately 30,000 students, with about 19,000 undergraduate students and 11,000 graduate students. The university’s SAT range for the middle 50% of admitted students is 1340-1520.
Majors
UNC Chapel Hill offers over 70 undergraduate majors and more than 100 graduate degree programs across various fields, including business, education, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and more. Some of the popular undergraduate majors at UNC Chapel Hill include biology, psychology, economics, computer science, and political science.
The university also strongly commits to community colleges in North Carolina and offers various programs to help community college students transfer to UNC Chapel Hill.
Admissions Process
UNC Chapel Hill has a highly selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 22%. The admissions process considers various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Student Activities
UNC Chapel Hill offers a wide range of student activities, including over 800 student organizations, club sports, intramural sports, and more. The Daily Tar Heel is the university’s independent student newspaper, and WXDU is the student-run radio station.
Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes
UNC Chapel Hill offers various housing options for students, including residence halls and apartment complexes. The university has 32 residence halls, with options ranging from traditional-style residence halls to suite-style residence halls. The university also has several apartment complexes, including Baity Hill, Mason Farm, and Rams Village.
Restaurants and Shopping
Chapel Hill is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, with various restaurants and shopping options in and around campus. Some popular restaurants near UNC Chapel Hill include Top of the Hill, Merritt’s Store and Grill, and Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen. The university also has a student-run store, Student Stores, which offers various merchandise and textbooks for students.
Duke University
Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 national universities in the United States. Duke University offers undergraduate majors in various fields, including arts and humanities, engineering, science, and social sciences. In addition, Duke University has over 80 graduate degree programs.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attending Duke University for the 2023-2024 academic year is approximately $80,000. This includes tuition, room and board, and other fees. However, Duke University is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Enrollment and SAT Range
Duke University has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 6,600 students. The middle 50% range for SAT scores of admitted students is 1460-1570.
Majors
Duke University offers over 50 undergraduate majors, including popular majors such as economics, computer science, and biology. In addition, Duke University offers interdisciplinary majors, such as public policy and global health.
Duke University also has a strong graduate program, offering over 80 graduate degree programs in law, medicine, and business.
Admissions Process
The admissions process for Duke University is highly selective. For the Class of 2025, Duke University received over 50,000 applications and admitted approximately 3,200 students. The admissions committee considers a variety of factors, including academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
College Education
Duke University is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to research. Students at Duke University have access to world-class faculty and research facilities. In addition, Duke University has a strong commitment to undergraduate research, with opportunities for students to engage in research projects in a variety of fields.
Student Activities
Duke University has over 400 student organizations, including clubs focused on community service, cultural awareness, and academic interests. In addition, Duke University has a strong athletic program, with 27 varsity sports teams.
Residence Halls, Apartment Complexes, Restaurants, and Shopping
Duke University has a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls and apartment complexes. In addition, Duke University has a variety of dining options, including cafes, dining halls, and restaurants. Off-campus, Durham offers a variety of shopping and dining options.
North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University (NC State) is a highly rated public university in Raleigh, North Carolina. With an enrollment of 22,929 undergraduate students, NC State offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and over 200 master’s and doctoral programs.
Annual Cost
In-state tuition and fees at NC State for the 2022-2023 academic year are $9,128, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $29,220. The university also offers financial aid and scholarships to eligible students.
Enrollment and SAT Range
NC State has a fairly competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 46%. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1270-1430.
Majors
NC State offers a wide range of undergraduate majors in fields such as business, biology, mechanical engineering, and more. The university also has graduate degree programs in various fields.
Student Activities
NC State has over 600 student organizations, including clubs for academic interests, cultural groups, and recreational activities. The university also has a thriving athletic program and is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes
NC State offers a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls and apartment complexes. The university has over 20 residence halls, ranging from traditional dormitory-style rooms to suite-style living.
Restaurants and Shopping
NC State has a variety of dining options on campus, including cafes, food courts, and restaurants. The university also has a bookstore and various shops and stores for students to purchase textbooks, school supplies, and NC State merchandise.
Overall, NC State is a top-ranked university in North Carolina, offering a quality college education and a range of student activities and amenities.
Davidson College
Davidson College, located in Davidson, North Carolina, is a private liberal arts college that offers undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs. The college has a selective admissions process and is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong commitment to student activities.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attendance at Davidson College for the 2022-2023 academic year is $57,090. This includes tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses. The college offers financial aid to eligible students to help offset the cost of college education.
Enrollment and SAT Range
As of Fall 2021, Davidson College had a total enrollment of 1,843 undergraduate students. The college has a highly competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 17%. The middle 50% range of SAT scores for admitted students is 1370-1520.
Majors
Davidson College offers 29 undergraduate majors in a variety of fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. Some of the most popular majors at the college include economics, political science, biology, psychology, and English.
The college also offers several pre-professional programs, including pre-medical, pre-law, and pre-engineering. In addition, Davidson College has a strong commitment to interdisciplinary studies, with several programs that allow students to explore topics across multiple disciplines.
Davidson College is a highly selective liberal arts college with a rigorous academic curriculum and a wide range of student activities. Its commitment to interdisciplinary studies and pre-professional programs make it a popular choice for students seeking a well-rounded college education.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) is a public research university in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the University of North Carolina’s third-largest university, with over 30,000 students enrolled. UNC Charlotte offers over 140 undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs.
Annual Cost
In-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students at UNC Charlotte are $7,214, while out-of-state students pay $21,870. Room and board costs an additional $10,590 per year. Graduate tuition varies by program.
Enrollment and SAT Range
UNC Charlotte has a total enrollment of over 30,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score range of 1140-1320.
Majors
UNC Charlotte offers a wide range of undergraduate majors, including business, engineering, education, nursing, and more. They also offer graduate programs in fields such as business, education, engineering, and health.
Admissions Process
Prospective students can apply to UNC Charlotte through the Common Application or through the UNC System Application. The application fee is $75. Admissions decisions are based on a variety of factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and essays.
College Education
UNC Charlotte offers a comprehensive college education, with opportunities for research, internships, and study abroad programs. The university also provides resources such as career services, academic advising, and tutoring to help students succeed.
Student Activities
UNC Charlotte has over 400 student organizations, including clubs for sports, arts, culture, and more. The university also has a Division I athletics program, with teams competing in the Conference USA.
Residence Halls, Apartment Complexes, Restaurants, and Shopping
UNC Charlotte offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls and apartment-style living. There are also several on-campus dining options, as well as nearby restaurants and shopping centers.
Appalachian State University
Appalachian State University is a public institution located in Boone, North Carolina. It is known for its strong undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs. The university has a selective admissions process and offers a quality college education to its students.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attending Appalachian State University varies based on residency status and other factors. In-state students can expect to pay around $21,000 per year for tuition, fees, and room and board, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $36,000 per year.
Enrollment and SAT Range
As of Fall 2022, Appalachian State University has an enrollment of approximately 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1140-1310.
Majors
Appalachian State University offers over 150 undergraduate majors and concentrations, as well as a variety of graduate programs. Some of the most popular majors at the university include Business, Psychology, Health Sciences, and Education.
The university also offers a number of unique programs, such as Sustainable Development, Fermentation Sciences, and Outdoor Experiential Education.
Student Activities
Appalachian State University offers various student activities and organizations, including academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural groups. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes
Appalachian State University has a variety of residence halls and apartment complexes available for students. The university offers traditional dormitory-style housing and apartment-style living for upper-level students and graduate students.
Restaurants and Shopping
Boone, North Carolina, the town where Appalachian State University is located, offers a variety of restaurants and shopping options for students. The town has a vibrant downtown area with local shops and restaurants and larger chain stores and restaurants located nearby.
Overall, Appalachian State University offers a quality college education with a strong focus on sustainability and outdoor recreation. With a wide range of majors, student activities, and housing options, the university provides a well-rounded college experience for its students.
Elon University
Elon University is a private university located in Elon, North Carolina. The university is organized into six schools and colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, School of Communications, School of Education, School of Health Sciences, and School of Law. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 6,291 and a graduate enrollment of 1,110.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attending Elon University is approximately $56,000, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid is available to eligible students through scholarships, grants, and loans.
Enrollment and SAT Range
Elon University has a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 72%. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1240-1410.
Majors
Elon University offers over 60 undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, communications, education, health sciences, and law. Some of the most popular majors include finance, marketing, journalism, and psychology.
The university also offers study abroad programs, internships, and research opportunities to provide students with a well-rounded college education.
Student Activities
Elon University has over 200 student organizations and clubs, including academic clubs, service organizations, and special interest groups. The university also has a Division I athletics program and a variety of intramural and club sports.
Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes
Elon University offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartment-style living, and theme housing. The university also has off-campus apartment complexes available for upperclassmen.
Restaurants and Shopping
Elon University is located in the town of Elon, which has a variety of restaurants and shops within walking distance of the campus. The university also provides a shuttle service to nearby shopping centers and attractions.
Overall, Elon University offers a comprehensive college experience with a variety of academic programs, student activities, and housing options.
Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University is a private research university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the country.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attending Wake Forest University for the 2022-2023 academic year is $62,128. This includes tuition, room and board, books, and other fees.
Enrollment and SAT Range
Wake Forest University has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 5,200 students and a graduate enrollment of approximately 3,000 students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is between 1390 and 1540.
Majors
Wake Forest University offers over 45 undergraduate majors and 60 minors. The most popular majors include Business, Psychology, Biology, and Communications. The university also offers a variety of graduate degree programs.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at Wake Forest University is highly selective. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to their community. The application process includes submitting transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Student Activities
Wake Forest University offers a wide range of student activities, including over 200 student organizations, club sports, and intramural sports. The university also hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year.
Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes
Wake Forest University has a variety of residence halls and apartment complexes for students to choose from. The university guarantees housing for all four years for undergraduate students.
Restaurants and Shopping
The surrounding area of Winston-Salem offers a variety of restaurants and shopping options for students. The university also has on-campus dining options, including several cafes and dining halls.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is a coastal university in Wilmington, North Carolina. UNCW is a public university that offers undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs in various fields of study. The admissions process at UNCW is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 68%.
Annual Cost
UNCW’s annual cost for in-state tuition and fees is $7,238, while out-of-state tuition and fees cost $21,309 per year. However, attendance costs vary depending on factors such as housing, meal plans, and textbooks.
Enrollment and SAT Range
UNCW has an enrollment of approximately 17,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1120-1300.
Majors
UNCW offers over 70 undergraduate majors and minors, ranging from business, communication studies, and education to marine biology, nursing, and psychology. The university also offers graduate degree programs in various fields, including business administration, education, and marine biology.
UNCW prides itself on providing a well-rounded college education that goes beyond the classroom. The university offers a variety of student activities, including clubs and organizations, intramural sports, and cultural events. Students can choose to live on-campus in one of the university’s residence halls or apartment complexes, which offer a variety of amenities such as fitness centers and study lounges.
Off-campus, students can enjoy a range of restaurants and shopping options in Wilmington’s historic downtown area.
East Carolina University
East Carolina University is a public university located in Greenville, North Carolina. It offers undergraduate majors and graduate degree programs across various disciplines.
Annual Cost
The annual cost of attending East Carolina University varies based on whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident. In-state students can expect to pay around $7,297 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state students will pay approximately $23,515.
Enrollment and SAT Range
As of the Fall of 2022, East Carolina University had an enrollment of 23,081 undergraduate students and 5,047 graduate students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is between 1080-1240.
Majors
East Carolina University offers a wide range of undergraduate majors, including popular programs in Nursing, Communications, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. Graduate degree programs are also available in Business, Education, and Health Sciences.
In addition to academics, the university also offers a variety of student activities, including clubs and organizations, intramural sports, and cultural events. Students can live on campus in one of the university’s residence halls or off-campus apartment complexes.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at East Carolina University is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 88%. Prospective students are required to submit an application, official transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores. The university also considers extracurricular activities and personal essays as part of the admissions process.
Campus Life
East Carolina University has a vibrant campus life, with various dining options, shopping areas, and entertainment venues nearby. The university also has a strong Greek life presence, with over 30 fraternities and sororities on campus.
Residence Halls and Apartments
East Carolina University offers a variety of housing options for students, including traditional residence halls, suite-style living, and apartment complexes. The university also has some dining options on campus, including cafeterias, coffee shops, and fast-food restaurants.
Conclusion
Overall, East Carolina University is a great choice for students looking for a quality college education in North Carolina. With a range of undergraduate majors, graduate degree programs, and student activities, the university offers a well-rounded college experience for students of all backgrounds.
