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
#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.
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
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.
Biology
Biology students learn about living organisms. Coursework typically explores chemical processes and how molecules react. In addition, learners examine the interactions between various species and their environments. Students complete experiments and research projects. Graduates often become biologists, professors, and healthcare workers.Business
Learners in the business field develop knowledge in marketing, supply chain management, leadership, and finance. Most business programs allow participants to choose an emphasis, minor, or concentration. Business degree holders can become entrepreneurs, CEOs, and managers.Communication
A communication degree covers interpersonal communication and mass communication. Learners prepare to effectively use communication tools including social media, newsletters, and influencer marketing. Communication professionals can work at nonprofits, small businesses, and large corporations. They often manage a team, which may include public relations coordinators and event planners.Computer Science
Degree-seekers learn about the algorithms and theories that guide the computer science field. Learners also explore common computer software programs and prepare to troubleshoot common technological issues. Graduates of computer science programs can become information technology specialists, software developers, and computer network architects.Psychology
Psychology programs explore human behavior and related theories. Curricula typically cover common mental health conditions, along with therapies and medications used as treatments. Most psychology programs focus on cognitive, developmental, behavioral, and neural studies. Graduates often become counselors, therapists, and psychologists.
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.
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