Best Public Colleges in North Carolina
With its rich history, natural beauty, and dedication to education, North Carolina has become a magnet for students from around the country. Home to the oldest public university in the U.S., North Carolina boasts a diverse array of public institutions that offer quality education and research opportunities. This article explores the top public colleges in the Tar Heel State.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Information About Public Programs
UNC-Chapel Hill, the flagship of the UNC system, is renowned for its journalism, medicine, and business programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state tuition averages $8,980, with approximately 30,000 students and an SAT range of 1270-1480.
North Carolina State University
Information About Public Programs
NCSU, located in Raleigh, is recognized for its engineering, textiles, and agricultural programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents pay around $9,100, with an enrollment of 36,000 and an SAT range of 1250-1410.
Appalachian State University
Information About Public Programs
It is located in Boone and’s known for its education, business, and health disciplines.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The average in-state tuition is $7,409, with about 20,000 students and an SAT range of 1100-1270.
University of North Carolina – Wilmington
Information About Public Programs
UNCW specializes in marine biology, business, and education.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state tuition is $7,091, with a student population of 17,500 and an SAT range of 1190-1320.
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
Information About Public Programs
As the name suggests, this institution focuses on arts programs, including music, dance, and drama.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents pay around $6,497, enrolling about 1,100 students, and the emphasis on portfolios often outweighs SAT scores.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Information About Public Programs
UNC Charlotte is known for its business, engineering, and health programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state students pay approximately $6,853. The university enrolls around 30,000 students with an SAT range of 1100-1250.
University of North Carolina – Greensboro
Information About Public Programs
UNC Greensboro excels in nursing, business, and visual and performing arts.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The average in-state tuition is $7,331, with a student population 20,000 and an SAT range of 1010-1190.
Western Carolina University
Information About Public Programs
Based in Cullowhee, it’s renowned for education, business, and health.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state tuition averages $4,277, with around 12,000 students and an SAT range of 1020-1190.
East Carolina University
Information About Public Programs
ECU offers vital business, health sciences, and communications programs in Greenville.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents face tuition of $7,238, enrolling about 28,700 students with an SAT range of 1040-1200.
University of North Carolina Asheville
Information About Public Programs
UNC Asheville is the designated liberal arts institution of the UNC system.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state tuition is about $7,145, with an enrollment of 3,600 students and an SAT range of 1070-1270.
Best Public Colleges in Three Other States
Best Public Colleges in South Carolina
The University of South Carolina, Clemson University, and The Citadel have consistently ranked top in the Palmetto State.
Best Public Colleges in Virginia
With institutions like the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, and the College of William & Mary, Virginia boasts excellence.
Best Public Colleges in Tennessee
The University of Tennessee, Middle Tennessee State University, and East Tennessee State University stand out in the Volunteer State.
The Importance of SAT Prep
Effective SAT prep can significantly boost students’ chances of admission to their dream college. It sharpens test-taking skills, builds confidence, and offers students insights into areas of improvement. Dedicated preparation is paramount, as many top institutions have competitive SAT ranges.
In conclusion, North Carolina’s commitment to quality higher education is evident in its diverse array of public institutions. Whether you’re passionate about the arts, engineering, or any discipline, North Carolina has a public college that can cater to your academic aspirations.
