Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

Get started with your search for top-ranked online schools in North Carolina. Discover which colleges offer programs that fit your needs.

Updated September 21, 2023

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North Carolina Online Colleges and Universities

North Carolina residents can choose an in-state school to receive reduced tuition rates and expand their professional network. Learners who plan to move to the state after graduation can attend North Carolina online colleges to begin making local connections. While most institutions require students to live in the state for at least 12 months prior to enrollment to receive in-state status, many schools offer reduced tuition rates to online learners.

In North Carolina, online colleges often connect degree-seekers with local resources and businesses. For example, students often participate in internships for college credit. This guide highlights the best colleges in North Carolina and explores the benefits of pursuing an online program in the state.

The best online colleges in North Carolina offer quality education at affordable prices. Our ranking of the top online colleges in North Carolina considers factors such as tuition costs, student-to-teacher ratios, and graduation rates. Availability of financial support, career counseling services, and job placement support also affect rankings. These factors contribute to the program's overall accessibility and value.



Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2023

#1 Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

  • Salisbury, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Salisbury, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The public college emphasizes affordable online programs that provide high-quality education without sacrificing convenience.  

Learners can choose from online programs in fields like business, education, and nursing. The school's 31 remote programs serve 5,075 degree-seekers. The institution reports a graduation rate of approximately 29%.

Out-of-state undergraduates pay about $8,580 annually in tuition, while in-state learners pay about $2,400. About 73% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,109
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

North Carolina State University

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, North Carolina State University  offers affordable online programs catering to students at every level. Undergraduates, graduate degree-seekers, and lifelong learners can explore the Raleigh-based university's online programs.

Distance learners can pursue popular majors like business, education, and public health. With a total remote enrollment of 32,700, the school delivers 73 online programs. The institution reports a graduation rate of around 84%.

In-state undergraduates pay about $6,535 in annual tuition, while out-of-state students pay about $26,650. At the graduate level, in-state students pay approximately $9,100, while out-of-state students pay around $26,420. The school reports that 68% of students receive some type of financial aid, with about 37% taking out loans. The average financial aid package totals $9,595.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
36,042
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

Durham Technical Community College

  • Durham, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students can choose from numerous online programs at Durham Technical Community College. Providing both quality education and convenient remote delivery, these programs can help degree-seekers from all walks of life achieve their academic and career objectives.

Online offerings span a variety of disciplines, including education, nursing, and social work. The college offers 16 online programs and enrolls about 4,600 distance learners. The school reports a graduation rate of about 19%.

The annual tuition for out-of-state undergraduate students costs about $7,340, while in-state learners pay approximately $2,080. Almost 90% of students  receive some type of financial aid, with an average aid package of $6,066. About 14% of enrollees use loans to pay for all or part of their degrees.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,081
Out-of-state
$7,339
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,672
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

Southeastern Community College

  • Whiteville, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Whiteville, Southeastern Community College offers affordable online programs for learners from North Carolina and beyond. This public college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The school's distance learning programs allow students to major in fields like nursing, public health, and social work. About 1,080 online students attend this college, which reports a graduation rate of around 44%.

Tuition for out-of-state undergraduate students costs about $8,580, while in-state students pay approximately $2,430. About 92% of degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,271
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Online Colleges In North Carolina 2023

Wake Technical Community College

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Raleigh-based Wake Technical Community College delivers a diverse catalog of affordably priced online degrees. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, this public college emphasizes career-relevant education for recent high school grads and working professionals alike.

Learners can choose from programs in fields like business, education, and social work. With a total online enrollment of over 20,400, the school provides 24 degree paths via distance learning. The institution reports a graduation rate of around 28%.

Full-time, in-state students pay about $2,430 annually in tuition, while out-of-state learners pay approximately $8,580. About 62% of students receive some form of financial aid. The average financial aid award totals $6,124, and about 41% of the school's enrollees take out student loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
21,760
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Why Choose North Carolina for Online Higher Education?

Students can attend North Carolina online colleges to form professional connections in the state. According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the state's key industries include food processing and manufacturing, business and financial services, and aerospace and defense. Learners interested in pursuing a career in one of these fields often benefit from attending a school located in North Carolina.

Common Online Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina

Each institution designs unique program curricula. However, the following descriptions represent typical curriculum components for five common undergraduate majors.

Cost of Attending an Online College in North Carolina

Students attending North Carolina online colleges often save money over on-campus programs. Most schools waive campus maintenance and student activity fees for distance learners. Typically, online students also save money on transportation and housing costs. In addition to tuition, learners should budget for the cost of books and required technology.

The exact cost of attending school in North Carolina varies greatly, but the table below shows the average undergraduate tuition rates in the state. Most colleges and universities publish specific tuition information online. Students should also contact each prospective school's admissions department to learn about financial aid packages.

Average Undergraduate Tuition in North Carolina
Location Public Four-Year College Private Four-Year College Public Two-Year College
In-State $9,350 $32,770 $3,380
Out-of-State $27,020 N/A $8,130

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Career and Salary Outlook for Students in North Carolina

Many individuals in North Carolina pursue careers in the growing business and technology industries. The following list features common positions for graduates of North Carolina online colleges. The table highlights each occupation's median annual salary and projected job growth.

Financial managers oversee mid-level and entry-level financial professionals. These managers develop big-picture ideas and facilitate changes to enhance the financial status of an organization. Some financial managers work as consultants who oversee investments for individuals. Others work within an organization. While a bachelor's degree can qualify holders for roles as financial managers, many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.

Marketing managers work with social media coordinators, graphic designers, commercial photographers, and writers to produce campaigns. These professionals often work for advertising companies or large corporations. They oversee the visual and written communication messages of advertisements and motivate customers to purchase products and services.

Experienced sales associates often secure sales management positions. Sales managers assign associates to territories and motivate them to meet sales quotas. These professionals also design promotions and sales campaigns.

Computer and information systems managers solve technological issues. They also develop new software and prevent computer failures. These professionals need strong planning skills to oversee their organization's computer-related activities. They recommend technological upgrades to increase business efficiency.

Actuaries use financial theories to analyze the cost of risk and uncertainty in business operations such as investments and insurance policies. These professionals use statistical data to provide recommendations to top executives. Actuaries often use visual charts to present findings to clients and executives.

Highest-Paying Careers With a Bachelor's Degree in North Carolina
Career Median Annual Salary Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030)
Financial Managers $134,180 17%
Marketing Managers $141,490 10%
Sales Managers $132,290 7%
Computer and Information Systems Managers $151,150 11%
Actuaries $111,030 24%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in North Carolina


Do online credits cost more or less in North Carolina?

The cost of attending college in North Carolina varies by school. However, North Carolina residents and online students typically receive the lowest rates. Most schools publish tuition information online.

What is the most affordable college in North Carolina?

State schools in North Carolina, such as Appalachian State University and Western Carolina University, offer some of the lowest tuition rates in the state. Many community colleges also provide affordable programs.

How long do you need to live in North Carolina to get in-state tuition?

The qualifications for in-state tuition rates vary by institution. However, most schools require learners to maintain residency in North Carolina for at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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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