North Carolina’s Best Colleges & Universities

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U.S. News & World Report, a highly respected and influential publication, annually releases its rankings of American colleges and universities based on a variety of factors such as academic reputation, student outcomes, faculty resources, financial resources, and student selectivity. The rankings have become a popular tool for prospective students and their families to compare and evaluate different institutions. While the rankings are not without criticism, they have nonetheless become a significant factor in the higher education landscape, influencing admissions decisions, funding allocations, and institutional prestige. Below are the top 10 colleges and universities in North Carolina according to U.S. News.

1.Duke University

#10 Overall (tie)

Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its highly ranked undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as its prominent medical center. Duke offers a range of academic disciplines, including engineering, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary programs.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

#29 Overall (tie)

UNC Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is one of the oldest public universities in the country and is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the areas of medicine, law, and business. UNC Chapel Hill also has a highly regarded athletics program.

3. Wake Forest University

#29 Overall (tie)

Wake Forest is a private research university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its small class sizes and personalized attention to students. Wake Forest offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, law, and medicine.

4. North Carolina State University

#72 Overall (tie)

NC State is a public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and life sciences. NC State also has a highly regarded athletics program and is home to the Wolfpack.

5. Elon University

#89 Overall (tie)

Elon is a private university located in Elon, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in communications, business, and the arts. Elon also emphasizes experiential learning and offers students many opportunities for internships and other hands-on experiences.

6. University of North Carolina Wilmington

#202 Overall (tie)

UNC Wilmington is a public research university located in Wilmington, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in marine biology, business, and nursing. UNC Wilmington also has a highly regarded athletics program and is home to the Seahawks.

7.University of North Carolina at Greensboro

#219 Overall (tie)

UNC Greensboro is a public research university located in Greensboro, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in education, nursing, and the arts. UNC Greensboro also emphasizes community engagement and has a strong commitment to social justice and diversity.

8. University of North Carolina Charlotte

#219 Overall (tie)

UNC Charlotte is a public research university located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and the arts. UNC Charlotte also has a highly regarded athletics program and is home to the 49ers.

9. East Carolina University

#234 Overall (tie)

ECU is a public research university located in Greenville, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in health sciences, education, and business. ECU also has a highly regarded athletics program and is home to the Pirates.

10. Western Carolina University

#263 Overall (tie)

WCU is a public university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in education, health sciences, and the arts. WCU also has a beautiful mountainous campus and a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best colleges and universities in North Carolina?

There are many highly ranked colleges and universities in North Carolina, including Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, Wake Forest University, NC State, and others. These institutions are known for their strong academic programs, accomplished faculty, and commitment to research and innovation.

What are the most popular majors at North Carolina colleges and universities?

The most popular majors vary by institution, but some common areas of study in North Carolina include business, engineering, education, nursing, and the arts. Many colleges and universities in the state also offer strong programs in health sciences, social sciences, and natural sciences.

What is the cost of tuition at North Carolina colleges and universities?

The cost of tuition varies by institution and program of study. Public universities in North Carolina tend to be more affordable for in-state students, with average tuition and fees ranging from $6,000 to $9,000 per year. Private universities tend to have higher tuition rates, with many charging $30,000 or more per year.

What are the athletics programs like at North Carolina colleges and universities?

North Carolina colleges and universities have a strong tradition of athletics, with many schools competing in NCAA Division I. Some of the most popular sports include basketball, football, soccer, and baseball, among others. Many North Carolina schools have highly regarded athletics programs and are known for their passionate fans and supportive alumni networks.

What opportunities are there for internships and other experiential learning at North Carolina colleges and universities?

Many North Carolina colleges and universities offer students opportunities for internships, co-ops, research projects, and other experiential learning experiences. These opportunities can be a valuable way for students to gain practical skills and apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting. Some schools also have strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, which can provide students with access to valuable networking opportunities and career connections.

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