Bay View Analytics reports that in 2019, nearly a quarter of a million students enrolled in at least one online college course in North Carolina. From big-name universities like Duke and UNC to smaller technical schools and community colleges, you can find online degrees at just about every college in the state. But with so many schools and programs to choose from, how do you know which online learning option is right for you?
To help you find the right program, we provide a detailed look at the best accredited online colleges in North Carolina, and break down the different ways you can earn a certificate or degree online. You also learn about financial aid opportunities and other valuable college resources for North Carolina residents. Start your higher education journey here.
Ranking Online Colleges in North Carolina for 2024
You have educational and career goals that are near and dear to you, and you want a school that puts your needs first. OnlineColleges.me has ranked North Carolina’s online colleges and universities based on the factors that matter most to students — affordable tuition, generous financial aid packages, support throughout degree programs, career placement services, and low student-to-teacher ratios. See which schools stand out in 2024.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Raleigh, North CarolinaPublic $$
Earning your degree from North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers the scheduling flexibility you need to achieve your degree, no matter where you live. Whether your goal is a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, you’ll find online and hybrid program options at NC State. Online students receive the same robust education as their on-campus counterparts, receiving instruction from distinguished professors while learning to solve real-world problems. Throughout the enrollment process and educational experience, students receive personalized support and academic mentoring from university advisors. After graduation, students are ready to become leaders in fields ranging from STEM to humanities and social sciences.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts Completion, Leadership in the Public Sector
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $272.29-$1,178.17/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering
- Credits: 30
- Length: 18 months
- Cost: $505.28-$1,572.28/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Operations Research
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $505.28-$1,572.28/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Greenville, North CarolinaPublic $
Whether you’re ready to continue working toward a bachelor’s degree or want to start a new program of study, Eastern Carolina University (ECU) could be just the school to meet your academic needs. If you obtained an associate degree or attended college but didn’t earn enough credits to obtain a bachelor’s degree, you can complete your degree 100% online at ECU. If you have your eye on career advancement in your current field or a new discipline, a master’s degree can pave the way for your next move. ECU students have their choice of over 85 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs to achieve their educational and career goals. Whichever degree you choose, these online programs are specifically designed to meet your needs as a busy working adult.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Health Services Management
- Credits: 124
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $204.79-$883/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: AUPHA
Master of Library Science
- Credits: 39
- Length: 1.5-2 years
- Cost: $289.55-$1,020.05/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: ALA
Master of Arts in History
- Credits: 30-36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $289.55-$1,020.05/credit
- Mode: Mostly online/hybrid
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Greensboro, North CarolinaPublic $
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) offers several online degree programs to provide students maximum flexibility. Whether you’re balancing an active career, the demands of family life, or both, these programs make it possible to work toward your degree on a convenient schedule. You’ll find a range of degree programs at UNCG, whether your goal is a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Students in all online programs are taught by the same renowned faculty who offer face-to-face instruction on campus. Plus, each program is just as academically rigorous and maintains identical learning objectives as the corresponding on-campus paths of study. Most online courses are presented asynchronously, meaning that there are no set class times you must attend.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Edcuation
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $222-$854/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in International Business
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $336-$1,098/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Master of Science in Sustainability and Environment
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $336-$1,098/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Charlotte, North CarolinaPublic $
The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree or pursue a master’s degree entirely online. These programs are ideal for busy working professionals who would otherwise have to interrupt their careers or relocate closer to campus to obtain a degree. Several of UNC Charlotte’s online courses are entirely asynchronous, meaning there are no mandatory class times. Students may watch lessons and complete assignments at their convenience. Additional communication with classmates and instructors occurs via dedicated discussion boards and email. Other online course offerings are synchronous and require students to log in at specific class meeting times for instruction and discussion. Regardless of class format, students have the support of dedicated distance education program managers and librarians as they earn their degrees.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Degree Completion
- Credits: 120
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $188.48-$748.23/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Social Work
- Credits: 39-60
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $280.34-$1,026.68/credit
- Mode: Fully online with in-person internship
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
EdD in Educational Leadership: Superintendency Concentration
- Credits: 48
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $281.59-$1,067.43/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Boone, North CarolinaPublic $
At Appalachian State University, you can prepare for your first career or a pivot into a new industry with an online degree. Whether you’re studying for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, these programs offer the flexibility to study on your own time, no matter where you’re located. As an online student, you’ll learn from the same professors who teach on the App State campus, complete challenging coursework, and take part in engaging class discussions. While synchronous course options replicate the traditional classroom experience, asynchronous courses are easier to attend for students with stricter time requirements. Either course format can be accessed entirely online, ensuring students can fit their studies into demanding personal schedules.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $203-$870/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition Concentration
- Credits: 39
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $304-$1,138/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Educational Leadership (EdD)
- Credits: 60
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $304-$1,138/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Cullowhee, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Wilmington, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Durham, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Fayetteville, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Greensboro, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Elizabeth City, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Pembroke, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Mount Olive, North CarolinaPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Wake Forest, North CarolinaPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Concord, North CarolinaPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
7/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Clyde, North CarolinaPublic $
Haywood Community College offers fully online associate, diploma, and certificate programs. These online programs have maximum flexibility and provide a rich educational experience that encourages regular participation and positive, healthy, and respectful interactions. Courses are delivered through Moodle in addition to using Zoom, VidGrid, and other online resources. Haywood provides a video, written resources, and tech support to help students prepare for their online programs and address any problems they experience.
Program Highlights:
Associate in Applied Science Business Administration
- Credits: 67
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,289.75-$4,361.75/semester
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate in Applied Science Degree Information Technology
- Credits: 76
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,289.75-$4,361.75/semester
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate in Applied Science Degree Medical Office Administration
- Credits: 69-71
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,289.75-$4,361.75/semester
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
8/1
-
Flat Rock, North CarolinaPublic $
Blue Ridge Community College offers a wide variety of online degrees and certificate programs that allow students to achieve their educational goals while also meeting their personal and professional responsibilities. All coursework can be completed fully online through MyCourses, though some courses require online proctored exams. In-person proctored exams are also available upon request. The college provides several resources to help students succeed. Those include tutoring, career services, student orientation, and more.
Program Highlights:
Fire Protection Technology Associate in Applied Science
- Credits: 66
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $172-$311/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Business Administration: Marketing Pathway Associate in Applied Science
- Credits: 70-71
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $172-$311/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Public Safety Administration – Emergency & Fire Management Associate in Applied Science
- Credits: 66
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $172-$311/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Grantsboro, North CarolinaPublic $
Distance learning at Pamlico Community College helps students successfully earn an education while still maintaining work and family responsibilities. Distance Learning allows them to take accredited courses with transferability identical to traditional face-to-face courses. Online courses are delivered through Moodle and are not self-paced, so they include weekly assignments according to a class schedule, regular contact with instructors, and participation in online class discussions. Hybrid classes use both Moodle and on-campus sessions for instruction. In traditional classes, Moodle is used to share resources to enhance on-campus instruction. Students can expect to build each of these delivery methods into their degree programs.
Program Highlights:
Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dental Laboratory Technology
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $91-$283/credit
- Mode: Online, in-person, or hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate in Science
- Credits: 61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $91-$283/credit
- Mode: Online, in-person, or hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Early Childhood Birth-Kindergarten Associate
- Credits: 71
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $91-$283/credit
- Mode: Online, in-person, or hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
5/1
-
Washington, North CarolinaPublic $
Beaufort County Community College provides competitive distance education programs that have the same rigor and quality of instruction as traditional, in-person learning. BCCC’s online programs include a comprehensive array of quality, affordable, and accessible courses delivered by experienced and committed faculty. Online learning is delivered through Blackboard. Seated/web-enhanced courses are face-to-face only, but Blackboard may be used for posting instructor contact information, grades, and syllabi. Hybrid courses require face-to-face meetings and online assignments. Online courses have no class meetings, but some on-campus testing may be required for some courses. BCCC also offers exceptional student services, including childcare assistance, admissions assistance, tutoring, career services, accessibility options, and more.
Program Highlights:
AAS Criminal Justice Technology
- Credits: 75
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $83-$275/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Information Technology
- Credits: 66
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $83-$275/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
AAS Emergency Medical Science
- Credits: 72
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $83-$275/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
9/1
-
Pinehurst, North CarolinaPublic $
Sandhills Community College offers several online associate degree programs. Students build fully online programs with the help of an advisor and/or the University Studies Coordinator. Online programs provide the flexibility needed to balance an education with existing work and home schedules. The college provides two options for distance learning. Internet or online courses are 100% online, while hybrid courses are delivered mostly online with some traditional face-to-face sessions.
Program Highlights:
Fire Protection Technology Associate Degree
- Credits: 65
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $4,940-$17,420/program
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Business Administration / Hospitality
- Credits: 68
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $5,168-$18,224/program
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate in Arts
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $76-$268/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Hamlet, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Sylva, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Asheboro, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
9/1
-
Winterville, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Spindale, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Kinston, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Wilkesboro, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
8/1
-
Dobson, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Salisbury, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Elizabeth City, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Graham, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Rocky Mount, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Asheville, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Lumberton, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Hudson, North CarolinaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Online Learning Modes in North Carolina
What are you looking for in an online degree program? Do you want to learn completely online? Do you want to attend classes with other students or work more independently? Do you need to attend on a part-time basis due to your busy schedule? There are different ways degree programs are delivered at online colleges in North Carolina, so continue reading to explore your options.
Fully-Online versus Hybrid or Blended
When you enroll in an online college in North Carolina, you get the opportunity to choose between a fully-online, blended, or hybrid program. In blended programs, there are online and in-person components to the courses, however, the online portions are not designed to replace in-person instruction.
On the other hand, with hybrid programs, online instruction does replace in-person coursework, but there are elements of in-person activities, such as capstone courses, students are required to participate in. Continue reading to find out examples of both of these types of delivery formats.
Master’s in Business Administration at North Carolina State University (Blended/Hybrid)
North Carolina State University offers a hybrid MBA program that allows students to complete their coursework at a time that’s convenient for them as long as they do the work within the time frames set in the syllabus. Students are able to complete their work through online tools such as Zoom, Moodle, discussion boards, and streaming videos.
Although the majority of work can be completed remotely, students are required to come to the Raleigh campus for two three-day residencies, which are completed during the first and last semesters of the program.
Students are generally able to complete their degrees in about two years, however, they can enroll in an accelerated version that can be finished in 21 months. During this time, students complete core coursework that covers financial accounting, leadership, economics, and supply chain management. In addition, people can choose electives on data security, financial modeling, equity valuation, and consumer behavior.
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Fully-Online)
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a completely online bachelor’s degree in philosophy that does not require students to meet during specific dates and times. In order to be admitted, applicants are expected to have at least a C average in their high school work, which includes courses in English, social science, mathematics, and foreign language.
Although the ACT and SAT score requirements have been waived, students can take these standardized tests to help bolster their applications.
Once admitted, online students develop their critical thinking, ethical, and reasoning skills through classes covering ancient and modern philosophy, as well as formal logic. The program also has an optional pre-law concentration, which includes coursework about the philosophy of law, crime, and punishment, as well as philosophical principles related to politics, science, and morality.
Asynchronous versus Synchronous
Online colleges in North Carolina let you choose between an asynchronous and synchronous program. If you have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow you to attend classes at specific times, or you prefer to work independently, then an asynchronous program is the right choice, as this learning style allows you to work at your own pace and watch lectures during the days and times that are best for you.
If you prefer to attend classes with other students, enroll in a synchronous program, which has set schedules like a traditional degree program on campus. Continue reading to find examples of these types of programs at the best accredited online colleges in North Carolina.
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at North Carolina A&T State University (Asynchronous)
The online criminal justice program at North Carolina A&T State University familiarizes students with contemporary issues in the criminal justice field, especially in relation to forensic science and crime scene investigation, cybersecurity, data analytics, and criminal investigations. Specific coursework covers topics such as the judicial process, policing, corrections, and criminology. The knowledge students gain in this coursework is augmented by classes designed to enhance writing and mathematics skills.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in crime scene investigation, this program allows you to also earn the Certificate in Forensic Science – Crime Scene Investigation, which provides expertise through deep dive classes about forensics, as well as a capstone course that gives students practical workplace experience.
You’ll need to complete a total of 120 credits within 8 terms, if you’re full-time. These credits include 36 hours of criminal justice courses and 12 hours in a related area.
Master of Arts in Educational Technology at North Carolina Central University (Synchronous)
North Carolina Central University offers an educational technology master’s degree program that allows you to concentrate in instructional technology or online instructional design. If you choose instructional technology, you can qualify for the state’s Instructional Technology Specialist Computer License after taking classes that prepare you to use digital content and learning technologies in K-12 schools.
If you enroll in the online instructional design concentration, you’ll gain expertise in creating, implementing, and evaluating digital technologies in educational and non-educational settings.
No matter which concentration you choose, this degree allows you to learn the foundations of educational technology and best practices expected of professionals in this field based on pedagogical, legal, and ethical standards.
Full-Time versus Part-Time
If you’re a busy professional who wants to continue your education, but can’t commit to a full-time schedule, then a part-time degree program at the best accredited online colleges in North Carolina may be the right choice for you. Depending on the school and the specific degree programs, you may have the opportunity to choose between enrolling on a full-time or part-time basis.
It’s important to keep the tradeoffs in mind, however. If you enroll part-time, you will be in school longer, but if you’re enrolled full-time, you may have trouble juggling all of your other commitments. As a result, you should carefully weigh your options. Consider your lifestyle. For examples of full-time and part-time degree programs at the best online colleges in North Carolina, read the descriptions below.
Master of Social Work at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (Part-Time)
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s master’s degree in social work gives you the option to complete the program on a part-time basis. In order to be admitted, students are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in social work from an accredited institution and at least a 3.0 grade point average. Also, the school expects you to have completed prerequisite classes in human biology, statistics, and English communication, as well as social sciences and humanities.
As a part-time student, you’re able to complete this 62-credit program in 36 months. During this time, you’ll take coursework that builds on your previous social work studies, reinforcing what you know about areas such as intervention methods, mental health diagnostics, and social welfare policies and programs. In addition, you’ll learn how to work with specific communities of people, such as those who live in rural areas or those who come from indigenous backgrounds.
Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Full-Time)
Offered through its Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s doctoral program in health leadership is a good choice for healthcare professionals who have managerial roles in medical settings, as well as nonprofit organizations and government agencies. In order to apply, applicants are required to have a graduate-level degree, and to submit GRE scores, three professional letters of recommendation, and a resume detailing workplace experience.
Also, prospective students may be expected to participate in a telephone interview with the department.
During the program, students learn advanced leadership strategies to help them best serve their communities as they manage their teams. There is also a strong emphasis on research and writing, and students are expected to complete a dissertation and practicum after they’ve completed their coursework.
Online College Accreditation in North Carolina
Accreditation is an important characteristic you should keep in mind when deciding on which online college in North Carolina you want to attend. The best Colleges and universities in North Carolina are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and Schools Commission on Colleges, an organization that certifies schools based on the quality of the curriculum, how course content benefits students, the services offered, and the qualifications of the faculty.
In addition, programs at the best accredited online colleges in North Carolina are also accredited. For example, psychology programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredits business degrees, and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education provides accreditation for nursing programs.
Price of an Online College Degree in NC
The cost of your higher education will depend on several factors, such as whether you choose a public or private institution. While public schools cost less than private, if you’re not a resident of North Carolina, you can expect to pay more for your degree program than people who’ve lived in the state for an extended amount of time.
While specific schools charge different tuition rates, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, in the 2020-2021 school year, public four-year colleges’ in-state tuition was $17,779 and out-of-state tuition was $23,136 at accredited colleges. When it came to private four-year schools, students were charged $49,893 per year.
To get an idea of what specific schools around the state charge for traditional and online colleges in North Carolina, review the table below.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina State University | $25,752.00/year | $47,757.00/year | $293.13/credit | $1,199.01/credit |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | $302.42/credit | $934.05/credit | $232.00/credit | $863.63/credit |
| North Carolina A&T State University | $4,636.81/semester | $11,391.81/ semester | $120.00/credit | $576.00/credit |
| The University of North Carolina at Pembroke | $145.66/credit | $312.32/credit | $103.21/credit | $269.87/credit |
| The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $292.46/credit | $1,482.50/credit | $293.00/credit | $1,058.00/credit |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for North Carolina Online Students
If you’re looking for ways to fund your education at online colleges in North Carolina, you have several options. First, explore what the school you choose offers in terms of scholarships and grants, because they will often provide funding that is available to all students who enroll as well as financial aid from specific academic departments.
As an example, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers a range of scholarship opportunities. Meanwhile, NC Community Colleges lists the Sam Haskell Scholarship on their website. And you can also search for scholarships using the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC)’s website.
In addition, you may be able to receive financial aid from private companies, as well as organizations that cater to the local community. Scholarships are available from different government agencies in North Carolina. For example, the North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs offers funding for those who have parents that served in the military.
Fast-Growing Careers for NC College Grads
Although there are numerous factors that go into what kind of degree program you choose, one big thing you need to keep in mind is the availability of jobs you’ll qualify for after graduation. The following table is a glimpse of the fastest growing careers in North Carolina so you can get an idea of where the opportunities will be in the coming years as well as salary potential for these professions.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 55.2% | $102,960 |
| Information Security Analysts | 51.1% | $117,400 |
| Statisticians | 49.8% | $111,640 |
| Logisticians | 37.3% | $72,450 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 36.7% | $60,440 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 34% | $121,430 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 33.6% | $66,100 |
| Epidemiologists | 33.3% | $80,360 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 33.2% | $93,460 |
| Financial Examiners | 32.3% | $106,820 |
Resources for Online College Students in North Carolina
Carolina College Advising Corps
This group helps high school students from underrepresented communities gain access to college.
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers tips to help students get the most out of their college experience on this page.
Tips for Students to Prepare for Online Learning
In this article, North Carolina State University provides pointers to help online students succeed.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington provides tips on how to use library resources to find books and other publications, as well as videos.
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke provides tips to help students prevent eye strain and computer fatigue, get the most out of technology, and work effectively in online groups.