Best Online Colleges in North Carolina
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A February 2023 report from the North Carolina Department of Commerce shows strong economic growth and workers' earnings beating inflation. The best colleges in North Carolina can prepare you for one of many well-paying careers.
Whether you're considering an online college in Charlotte, the state's biggest city, or in the tri-area of Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham, online colleges in North Carolina can make earning a degree more affordable and convenient.
The Best Online Colleges in North Carolina
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that's best for you.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $272
Undergrad, out of state | $1,138
Graduate, in state | $505
Graduate, out of state | $1,505
Part of the University of North Carolina system, NC State offers over 120 online programs. Learners can pursue certificates, undergraduate and graduate degrees, and bachelor's degree-completion pathways. Most programs run entirely online. However, some include hybrid or site-based distance classes.
Prospective students apply using the Common App or Coalition App. NC State admits students in the fall and spring. Applicants submit high school transcripts and complete an essay and short answers. The school makes SAT and ACT scores optional.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $204
Undergrad, out of state | $883
Graduate, in state | $289
Graduate, out of state | $1,020
One of the best colleges in North Carolina, ECU offers many degree and certificate programs. Students can pursue degree-completion options, post-master's and post-doctoral nursing certificates, and alternative or add-on teacher licensure.
Over 6,000 ECU students pursue online offerings in fields like business, healthcare, and education. Each program establishes specific admission eligibility requirements. Online learners can access student service specialists using a toll-free number and a dedicated email address.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $185
Undergrad, out of state | $771
Graduate, in state | $262
Graduate, out of state | $1,030
Among the best online colleges in North Carolina, UNCW offers many in-demand programs. Some options include an accelerated RN-to-BSN degree and an executive MBA designed for working professionals. Distance learners take classes in fully online synchronous and asynchronous formats. Some programs use hybrid models that combine face-to-face meetings with online instruction.
First-year students must meet the minimum course requirements established by the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina System. These requirements align with most North Carolina public school graduation requirements.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $177
Undergrad, out of state | $827
Graduate, in state | $269
Graduate, out of state | $1,103
Established in 1899, Appalachian ranks among the top colleges in North Carolina. The school offers nearly 40 programs that run fully online or through a hybrid format of online and satellite campus learning. Students can pursue online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in education, healthcare, and professional studies. Most programs record and archive online courses. Learners can access lectures at their convenience.
Prospective students can attend online information sessions to learn about entrance requirements and programs. Admission requirements vary by degree level.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $184
Undergrad, out of state | $369
Graduate, in state | $290
Graduate, out of state | $580
One of the three original schools in the University of North Carolina system, UNCG ranks among the best online colleges in North Carolina. The school offers over 125 areas of study. Students can enroll in online programs in fields like business, education, and social sciences. Online learners can access the same resources as on-campus students, including career development and placement services.
Admission requirements vary by program and degree level. First-year college students can apply using SpartanLink, Common App, or College Foundation of North Carolina portals.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $129
Undergrad, out of state | $318
Graduate, in state | $241
Graduate, out of state | $482
UNC Charlotte ranks among the best colleges in North Carolina. Learners can earn degrees fully online or via site-based locations throughout the state. Online enrollees can choose bachelor's-completion programs, graduate degrees and certificates, and teacher licensure programs.
Specific schools within UNC Charlotte establish their own entrance requirements. However, all first-year students must submit official high school transcripts and an essay. Online learners receive technical support and specialized services from program-specific distance education managers and librarians.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $66
Undergrad, out of state | $232
Graduate, in state | $271
Graduate, out of state | $849
One of the best online colleges in North Carolina, WCU offers several nationally recognized online degree and certificate programs. Learners can enroll in programs in fields like nursing, education, and emergency management. Working students can continue their careers by pursuing part-time, online degree-completion programs.
Individual programs set specific entrance requirements. Admission to online programs follows a two-stage process. Prospective students first apply for acceptance to the university. They can then apply to their program of interest. Online learners can access many resources, including 24-hour tutoring services.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
North Carolina A & T State University
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $120
Undergrad, out of state | $576
Graduate, in state | $233
Graduate, out of state | $860
North Carolina A&T State University, among the nation's largest historically black colleges and universities, offers over 90 degrees and certificates. Learners can study academic, agricultural, and technical fields. The school offers 10 undergraduate and 11 graduate programs in online formats. Each online degree and certificate program provides a coordinator to help enrollees with remote registration, transfer credits, and academic support.
The university maintains a rolling admissions policy, accepting first-year students based on fulfillment of the University of North Carolina system minimum course requirements.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $124
Undergrad, out of state | $608
Graduate, in state | $191
Graduate, out of state | $806
FSU, a historically black school affiliated with the University of North Carolina System, welcomes a diverse student body from all backgrounds. In addition to campus-based programs, students can enroll in online undergraduate degree-completion programs and graduate programs in fields like business, nursing, and psychology.
The degree-completion programs admit students who have fulfilled the university's college core curriculum or have dual-enrollment status with a partnering community college. Like many colleges in North Carolina, admission requirements for online graduate programs vary by department.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $375
Undergrad, out of state | $375
Graduate, in state | $51
Graduate, out of state | $515
Founded in 1905, Gardner-Webb is a private Christian-affiliated institution that offers over 80 undergraduate, graduate, and pre-professional programs. A leader in online education since 1999, the university awards degrees and certificates in several career-focused fields. Some options include education, nursing, and sports management.
Transfer students with an associate degree or at least 24 credits from a regionally accredited school can apply to Gardner-Webb's online undergraduate degree-completion programs.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
How Much Is Online College in North Carolina?
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public, Four-Year (In-state) | $7,260 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) | $23,136 |
| Private, Four-Year | $36,772 |
North Carolina residents can pay a lower tuition rate by attending one of the state's public colleges. You can save about two-thirds on tuition compared to your out-of-state peers. North Carolina private schools charge considerably more. Private colleges in NC charged an average of $36,772 in the 2020-21 school year.
Some online programs feature cost savings, such as out-of-state tuition waivers and exclusive scholarship opportunities. Contact online colleges in North Carolina to learn about how much degree-seekers pay at the school that interests you.
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs
North Carolina Scholarships
Use scholarships and grants to make online colleges in North Carolina more affordable. Many online financial aid resources can help you find scholarship opportunities like those below.
NC Scholarship
The College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) awards this scholarship to North Carolina residents taking at least six credits per semester. Other application requirements include income not exceeding $75,000 per year. Submit FAFSA results by the June 1 or August 15 deadline to apply.
North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship for Private College Students
Students exploring private online colleges in North Carolina may qualify for this CFNC scholarship if they hold residency and attempt at least nine credits per semester.
The scholarship committee also reviews your FAFSA results. Consider applying as soon as possible, as this scholarship may not receive enough funding to help all eligible applicants.
Jagannathan Scholarship
You may qualify for this CFNC scholarship by proving financial need and attending a University of North Carolina institution. Other requirements include good high school or college grades. Award amounts and application deadlines vary.
You start the application process by asking your school's financial aid office for a recommendation.
NC Sheriffs Association Undergraduate Criminal Justice Scholarships
The NC Sheriffs' Association awards this $2,000 scholarship to learners attending an eligible North Carolina college. Requirements include majoring in criminal justice or a related field. You also need a recommendation letter from a state sheriff.
Contact your school's financial aid office to apply. Each school can nominate only one degree-seeker per year.
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs
The 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in North Carolina
The 10 fastest-growing jobs in North Carolina boast a projected growth rate exceeding 23% and a median salary above $49,000. These jobs require at least a bachelor's degree and report 2,500 or more positions within the state.
If you plan on working in the state after you graduate, you should look over North Carolina's fastest-growing industries before selecting a major. The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina reports strong growth in the state's advanced manufacturing and aerospace sectors.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate | Median Annual Wage (2022) | Minimum Educational Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists | 40.8% | $121,970 | Bachelor's degree |
| Logisticians | 36.5% | $68,410 | Bachelor's degree |
| Information Security Analysts | 36.1% | $117,860 | Bachelor's degree |
| Web Developers | 35.8% | $71,740 | Bachelor's degree |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 31.2% | $102,910 | Bachelor's degree |
| Software Developers | 30.6% | $126,520 | Bachelor's degree |
| Operations Research Analysts | 26.9% | $96,450 | Bachelor's degree |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | 26.3% | $97,700 | Bachelor's degree |
| Financial Examiners | 24.7% | $83,610 | Bachelor's degree |
| Market Research Analysts | 24.2% | $65,710 | Bachelor's degree |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 23.7% | $49,050 | Bachelor's degree |
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Community Colleges in North Carolina
What is the easiest online college to get into in North Carolina?
The National Council for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that East Carolina University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro feature the highest acceptance rates in the state, both at 92%.
Make sure to follow all undergraduate admission steps. ECU has an April 1 final application deadline and requires high school transcripts. UNGC's requirements for first-year applicants include the Common Application and high school prerequisites.
Do I need to live in North Carolina to attend an online college in North Carolina?
No, you do not need to live in the state to apply to online colleges in North Carolina. As a nonresident, you may not qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges. Fortunately, some online schools may waive out-of-state tuition if you learn entirely online or meet other requirements.
There are many resources for students in North Carolina that can help you find a school and major at the best price. You can also contact online colleges in North Carolina to learn more about their tuition policies.
What is the cheapest online college in North Carolina?
The NCES reports that Elizabeth City State University ranks as the cheapest online college in North Carolina. The average student pays a net price of $4,120 per year on education-related expenses.
However, make sure to check the total cost of attendance (COA) at other online colleges in North Carolina as well. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Western Carolina University charge residents a very low per-credit tuition rate. These and other schools' COA can help you graduate without debt, especially if you qualify for scholarships.
