Online Schools & Colleges
in North Carolina

Tucked in the mountains of North Carolina, Appalachian State University provides a unique, holistic education that not all public schools can offer. All online undergraduate degree programs are intended for transfer students who are working toward a specific career. With that in mind, students can complete their education in 2 years while studying at their own pace. Students transferring into this program should have already completed their lower division credits at another institution. There are currently 7 entirely online bachelor's degree programs, as well as the hybrid bachelor's degree in middle grades education. Appalachian State also offers master's degree programs both online and in hybrid format, as well as graduate certificates. Every program at each level is taught with one goal in mind: to advance the student's career.

Often recognized as one of the most prestigious schools in the nation, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a leader in many fields, including online education. The majority of online students at UNC are graduates, and most are involved in public health or health sciences. Public health makes up the largest part of the online graduate program with 3 master's degrees, 1 doctoral degree and 6 certificates. UNC is seen as a global leader in health sciences, and the same respect given to their on-campus programs is extended to their online programs. UNC doesn't have any entirely online undergraduate programs, but they offer many undergraduate courses online. All required core courses can be completed online for active military and veterans, so those students can feasibly study toward a hybrid degree or complete their degree in less time than the traditional 4 years. There are also a variety of continuing education courses available online.

Among the top research schools in the nation, North Carolina State University has attracted world-class staff and faculty, improving the quality of education. For students considering online school at NC State, it may help to know that the same faculty teaches both on-campus and online. Aside from their faculty, NC State is among the best in online studies because of their vast number of options. There are currently 5 undergraduate programs offered at least partially online, as well as five undergraduate certificates that can be used to further specialize a degree. After earning a bachelor's degree, students can find master's and doctoral programs online, as well as certificates and licensure for teaching. Despite being online, their distance education still receives a lot of national attention and research funding, making it an excellent stepping stone for students looking to advance in their career or switch careers entirely.

Founded in 1995, Apex School of Theology is one of the younger institutions in the nation. Despite their short time teaching higher education, Apex has already established itself as a top Christian school with a focus on African-American culture. There are only 7 main programs offered at Apex - 1 bachelor's degree, 4 master's degrees, 1 doctoral degree and 1 associate degree - aside from their continuing education programs. However, students won't need to travel to campus to get any of their studies done. Apex offers all of their degree programs entirely online with each course mirroring the same quality and difficulty as their on-campus versions. Online courses are also offered in the traditional 16 week format or an abbreviated 8-week session. Regardless of where students live, Apex charges a flat rate per class, with different fees being applied to the different degree levels. This structure is meant to help keep the cost of an education low, since the programs are designed for working students.

Western Carolina University began as a teaching school but quickly grew into much more. While teaching is still one of the most popular subjects for students to study at WCU, other programs, such as nursing and engineering, have started to attract more national attention. Perhaps the most renowned program at WCU is entrepreneurship, which can be studied as a minor, bachelor's of science or bachelor's of science in business administration. This 4-year program is available both on-campus and entirely online, or as a hybrid. A master's degree in entrepreneurship is also offered entirely online through a quick 30-semester hour program. Entrepreneurship isn't the only program offered entirely online, though, as students can pick from 18 different programs, ranging from certificates to master's degrees. The program that students do end up picking will determine their tuition per credit, so students with previous credit can reduce the time and cost of their program.

Joining the UNC system nearly 50 years ago, the University of North Carolina Wilmington may not be the oldest or most storied institution in North Carolina, but they have gained national attention. Their dedication to student experience and innovation is noticeable not just with the growth of the school, but also with the growth of their online program. Online undergraduate degrees as UNC Wilmington are similar to those found at other schools, save a few of their majors. For example, their bachelor's in exercise science is a unique program both for its academics and format. Students that pursue this online degree with take courses in 6 sessions throughout the year, and courses last 7 weeks at a time. All of their bachelor's degrees can be completed entirely online, except for clinical experience (if required). UNC Wilmington also has an array of master's degrees and one doctoral degree in nursing practice.

Founded over 100 years ago as a teacher training school, East Carolina University is now one of the largest schools in North Carolina. While the school has experienced significant growth over the years, they've managed to maintain the same level of quality across all their programs - including those offered online. ECU's online school has over 50 degree choices, many more than most online schools across the nation. For students that are interested in earning a bachelor's degree, it's important to know that all their online bachelor's programs are degree completion. Transfer students and students that are switching to online education should have little to no problem getting their credits to go toward their new degree at ECU. ECU recommends that all transfer students enter with at least the first 2 years of their college education completed, or with a compatible associate degree. Also, a few programs require some campus attendance.

There is plenty to know about North Carolina Central University aside from the fact that they were the first public liberal arts school for African Americans. Since 1909, NCCU has been working to find new ways to reach students, which led to the creation of their online school. What makes NCCU online unique is that they offer 2 of their 3 most popular undergraduate degrees entirely online: a bachelor's in criminal justice and a bachelor's in psychology. Both of these online programs carry the same amount of respect as a traditional bachelor's from NCCU would. NCCU's commitment to making their online program one of the best in the state extends beyond academics. Students that earn a degree online will have access to special networking and job opportunities, helping them find a new career upon graduating. These programs are designed with working students in mind, so even busy students can find a way to make their online degrees work.

Located in one of the busiest cities in the state, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte was founded after WWII specifically to be a research institution. While UNC Charlotte is still recognized for their research, they've since expanded into other areas, one of the most recent being distance education. UNC Charlotte's online program is into 4 colleges: education, engineering, liberal arts & sciences and health & human services. Each of these colleges has multiple undergraduate and graduate degree options, some of which are 4-year programs that can be completed entirely online. Some of the specific programs may also require in-person experience; for example, to become a certified teacher in North Carolina, students in the online school of education will still be required to gain licensure through clinical experience. Anyone worried about the quality of UNC Charlotte's online school should know that all online courses are taught by the same professors that teach on campus.

Formerly known as Grace Leadership Institute, Grace College of Divinity is a Christian school that offers education down 1 of 4 tracks: leadership, worship, ministry and family life. Following that, there are only 4 undergraduate options available at GCD, each of which follows at least one of those tracks. These bachelor's degrees are designed to be studied in a hybrid format of online and on-campus, but students can spend a majority - if not all - of their studies online if they structure their schedule correctly. Online courses also have students engage in online discussion boards, keeping everyone within the GCD community. GCD does require some in-person experience, and the required experience varies depending on the degree - so, strictly speaking, not all of the undergraduate degrees can be completed entirely online. That being said, each program is structured for students that are currently working, so there is flexibility regardless of how they study.

Students enrolled in fully online programs to complete a bachelor's degree at UNC Greensboro can expect to pay less than their on-campus peers. There are options to study peace and conflict, business administration, supply chain management, public health or human development. Prior credit and GPA requirements vary by degree, and you can download the Online Student Guide to determine specifics. Most pathways call for the satisfaction of 122 total credit hours with a 2.0 grade average in order to graduate. Some classes require you to access your coursework at specific times. Instructors use web conferencing and chat boards to offer an interactive classroom experience. Other curriculum is completed at your own pace. Throughout the academic journey, Student Success Services is available to connect online learners with supports such as library access, the writing center and the bookstore. As you near graduation, the Career Services Center assists in career exploration, interview preparation and job placement.

At Queens University of Charlotte, students can choose from over 40 degree options in fields of social sciences, arts and design, business, communication, humanities and education. Although most coursework is held on campus, you can search the catalog for online offerings. Admissions eligibility is determined by your high school transcript and SAT or ACT scores. Applicants are also encouraged to submit letters of recommendation. In order to graduate, you will satisfy 120 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. On top of this, 100% of students will participate in an internship at companies such as Bank of America, Merrill Lynch and YMCA. Over 50% of enrollees take advantage of study abroad opportunities, ranging from language immersion programs in Spain to business internships in France. You can utilize a number of supports throughout your academic journey, including the stress reduction team, which is made up of Nola and Sunshine, 2 friendly canines available for snuggles and walks.

Online degree completion programs at Fayetteville State University are designed for students who have satisfied the school's core curriculum or are concurrently taking courses at a partner college. Applicants living outside of North Carolina have to acquire approval from their state of residency prior to enrollment. You must possess a minimum 2.0 GPA to be eligible for enrollment, and this grade average is to be maintained throughout the completion of the average 120 credits needed for graduation. There are 10 available disciplines, including accounting, intelligence studies, nursing, sociology or fire and emergency services administration. Classes are implemented in a semi-structured format through the web platform Canvas, in which students can work toward assignment deadlines and exams on their own schedule. Canvas is also host to Smarthinking Online Tutoring, a virtual service assisting students in writing assignments. Additional resources provide career guidance, technical help and financial aid information. You only need to submit 1 application to be considered for the 100+ available school-funded scholarships.

Students looking to finish their bachelor's degree quickly can enroll in Campbell University's accelerated online programs, which implement courses in 8-week formats. You can select from disciplines such as accounting, Christian studies, criminal justice, elementary education, health care management or psychology. Graduation requirements vary based on your degree choice and academic history. However, all programs call for a 2.0 minimum GPA in order to be admitted and to graduate. Classes are delivered through the web platform Blackboard Learn by campus faculty, and technical assistance is available 24/7. Online learners can also utilize the Office of Student Success, which offers access to free tutoring, counseling services and accommodations for disabilities. Military members may be eligible for the Campbell Online Military Benefit, which provides discounted tuition rates. Students with a military history can also speak to an advisor about using their experience for credit. As a Christian-based school, there are opportunities to participate in chapel services and mission trips.

The Christian-based Gardner-Webb University is host to a number of online degree completion programs, including accounting, Christian ministry, elementary education and organizational leadership. Students interested in going beyond the 128 credits required for graduation can enroll in Gardner-Webb Plus! to participate in research, community service or study abroad experiences. All enrollees will be connected with an academic adviser who will assist in initial registration and guidance throughout the educational journey. Additional academic supports include the writing center, peer tutoring and the first-year program, which encourages students to build relationships, grow in their faith and serve within their community. The Center for Personal and Professional Development offers tools for job exploration, and students can also have their professional headshots taken. Although there are no specific admission requirements, the average applicant holds a 3.7 GPA, an ACT score of 22 or an SAT score of 1015. Residents and non-residents pay the same tuition rates, and school-funded scholarship opportunities specific to undergraduates are also available.

Exercise science, multimedia communication and sacred music are just a few of the options to earn a bachelor's degree at Lenoir-Rhyne University. All programs include the school's core curriculum, which is designed to help students transition to college life while also providing foundational courses in the liberal arts and sciences. Certain classes may be offered in a hybrid or online format through the web platforms Canvas and WebEx. Technical assistance is available 24/7, and the Lohr Learning Commons links enrollees with tutoring and career guidance. Students can also utilize web conferencing to receive assistance from campus librarians. In addition, students are encouraged to take advantage of the school's outside learning opportunities, such as Engaged Scholars, which awards participants for independent research, study abroad experience or internships. In order to graduate, students will need to satisfy 128 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. First-time applicants will be required to submit an application, transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.

There are 2 online programs to complete undergraduate studies at the Christian-based, private University of Mount Olive. Students can work toward a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and criminology in order to enter the workforce as police officers, private investigators, CIA agents or postal inspectors. The second pathway is a completion program for nursing students who have already received an associate degree in the medical field. Both options require the completion of 126 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 GPA in order to graduate. The Academic Resource Center is available to connect online learners to peer tutoring services, study groups and supplemental instruction for notoriously challenging classes. Following degree completion, students can utilize the UMO Job Network to post resumes and search for employers. First-time undergraduates will need to submit an application as well as SAT or ACT scores. It is suggested that prospective students possess a high school grade average of 2.5.

Winston-Salem State University offers students opportunities to earn a bachelor's degree through 100% online studies in the fields of clinical laboratory science, nursing, education and interdisciplinary studies. The MLT to CLS program is intended for graduates of an NAACLS approved Medical Laboratory Technology associate degree who wish to continue on with their education in order to enter the workforce as medical technologists or forensic scientists. The RN to BSN program is open to future nurses possessing an associate degree or 24 recognized credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students wanting to teach or work in the business side of education can complete undergraduate work through the Birth-Kindergarten Education pathway. For those interested in multiple disciplines, interdisciplinary studies allows for a customized plan of study. Admissions, graduation requirements and state reciprocity agreements vary for each program. Prospective students can contact their distance learning coordinator or consult the undergraduate catalog for degree-specific information.

If you're looking for more flexibility in your schedule but are unsure of whether distance education is the right decision, North Carolina A&T State University provides a readiness assessment for students. Online programs to earn a bachelor's degree are available for students interested in fields such as agricultural education, business, electronics technology, geomatics and African American studies. Following enrollment, there are a number of resources to assist students in navigating the virtual Blackboard Learn classroom, including library access, free tutoring and technical support. Students nearing the completion of the 120-125 credits required to graduate can utilize the Office of Career Services for job searches, interview preparation and resume writing. All coursework must be passed with a C or higher in order to count toward credit. Applicants will want to check with their program of choice to determine admissions criteria, as some options are intended for transfer students and others for incoming freshman.

The School of Professional Studies at Mid-Atlantic Christian University is host to both hybrid and accelerated online programs to complete an undergraduate degree in business administration, family studies or Christian ministry and biblical studies. Following the fulfillment of 120-128 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 GPA, students enter fields of human resources, management, public policy and education. Additional graduation requirements include participation in Christian service hours and passing the Bible content test of the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Prospective enrollees must possess an associate degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited learning institution and be able to demonstrate a 2.0 grade average on transferrable coursework. If you don't meet this requirement, the school offers a Bridge Program to close the gap between foundational courses and degree-specific curriculum. Online Registration and Student Information Services links students to academic advising, the bookstore and financial aid information.

Christian studies are at the heart of academics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Students can choose from over 20 options to earn a bachelor's degree in areas such as Christian counseling, history, pastoral ministry, theology and philosophy. Regardless of pathway, all Bachelor of Arts programs involve 48 hours of general education and 24 hours of Christian core curriculum. Bachelor of Science programs entail 36 hours of general education, 45 hours of global studies or pastoral ministry and 45 hours of vocational electives. A number of classes are offered online for students seeking flexibility. Graduation will result from the completion of 127 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Additionally, students must attend 20 chapel services or listen to 25 recorded services throughout their time at school. Applicants will need to pass a criminal background check as well as submit transcripts, 2 character references, 1 pastor reference and 1 church reference to be considered for admissions.

Students with a minimum of 24 credit hours are eligible to participate in Pfeiffer University's online and hybrid programs for completing a bachelor's degree. Prospective students who don't meet the credit minimum will need to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission. The 100% online option is available for those interested in health administration, business management and leadership, criminal justice or nursing. Coursework must be passed with a grade C or above, and most programs require an average of 120 credit hours in order to graduate. Prior to graduation, online learners can utilize the Office of Career Services and Internships for help in job exploration, networking, resume writing and interview skills. In-state and out-of-state residents pay the same tuition rates, and active-duty military members, veterans and enrollees in the RN-BSN program receive discounts. On top of this, there are $7,000-$12,000 scholarships awarded specifically to transfer students each year. Prospective applicants can plan on attending the annual Transfer Student Day where they will learn about enrollment and other financial aid opportunities.

Christian-based Piedmont International University aims to balance academics and spiritual life through its online programs when earning a bachelor's degree. On top of completing an average of 120 credits with a grade C or above, students are required to regularly attend and serve at an approved church. The school also records its own chapel services, which online learners are encouraged to listen to. Available undergraduate programs include biblical studies, Christian ministry and sign language interpretation. For more information regarding a desired program of study, students can contact the academic adviser specific to online undergraduate degree. Once enrolled, the Academic Success Center provides tutoring resources as well as accommodations for students with disabilities. Applicants must submit a personal testimony, reference forms, proof of a minimum 2.0 GPA and an ACT score of 17 or the SAT equivalent. In-state and out-of-state residents pay the same tuition rates, and there are a number of school-sponsored scholarships to assist in costs.

For students who are interested in completing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, sociology, interdisciplinary studies or business administration, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers the opportunity to do so in a hybrid or fully online format. The school partners with a number of community colleges to make the transition simple. Students can also use a transfer tool to determine which credits will count toward their program. Although degrees vary in requirements, graduation calls for the fulfillment of an average 120-128 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. The faculty members teaching on-campus coursework are also in charge of online classes, which are implemented through the web platform Blackboard. The Transfer Transition Office works directly with online learners by connecting them to resources such as free tutoring, writing services, accommodations for disabilities and the Resource Learning Lab, which uses a variety of software programs to teach students time management and note-taking skills.

Montreat College's online bachelor's degree completion programs implement coursework in 5- to 8-week formats through the web platform Moodle. Students can choose to study business administration, psychology and human services, bible and religion, cybersecurity, human resource management or marketing. Curriculum is rooted in Christian values and instruction is implemented through a biblical lens. All students can utilize the school's resources and opportunities, including BestSemester, a program for international and domestic academic experiences. The Thrive Center for Learning, Calling and Career helps learners develop programs of study, explore job options and build resumes. Demonstration of a 2.0 GPA in prior college coursework is necessary for admissions, and this grade average must be maintained in order to finish your degree. Applicants will need to submit high school and college transcripts as well as American Council on Education proof of CLEP or DSST exams. Graduates enter the workforce as marketing directors, hospice chaplains, biblical authors and market research analysts.

Students possessing an associate degree or prior college credit are eligible to enroll in Lees McRae College's online opportunities to earn a bachelor's degree in business administration, criminal justice, elementary education, human services or nursing. Following an average of 2 years and the completion of 120 total credits, graduates enter the workforce as parole officers, teachers, medical case managers and sales directors. Courses are delivered through the web platform Brightspace, and the Helpdesk is available to respond to any technical concerns. All students also receive a copy of Microsoft Office 365. Other resources include the school's career and counseling services, which assist online learners with networking, stress management and relationships. Residents and non-residents pay the same tuition, and there is a flat rate for textbook rentals each semester. Students can also take advantage of financial aid options and school-funded scholarships to help cut down on costs. Admissions calls for a minimum 2.0 GPA, but students will need to check with individual programs for additional degree-specific requirements.

William Peace University offers a number of online bachelor's degrees for prospective students looking for flexible options. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in business administration or leadership or nonprofit administration. They can also pursue a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies, marketing, psychology or strategic communication. All online bachelor's degree programs at William Peace University are designed to give busy students a flexible way to begin or continue their college education. They are taught through Moodle, which is a course management system that allows students to access and submit assignments and exams. Students should expect to spend about 10 to 15 hours per week on a 3-credit course and log into the course at least 4 to 5 times per week. To be considered for admission to any of these 4-year online degrees, students are required to submit their official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. In addition to need-based financial aid, William Peace University offers merit scholarships ranging in value from $4,000 to $18,000.

At Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary offers 3 bachelor's degree programs designed to prepare students for Christian ministerial careers. The BA in Biblical Studies offers 3 different concentrations; the BA in Urban Christian Ministries offers 6 concentrations; and the BA in Pastoral Studies stands alone. Graduates often go on to teaching positions in a church setting, missionary work or graduate degree programs. Students may choose to complete their bachelor's degree entirely online or through a combination of online and on-campus courses. Each degree is a 4-year program requiring 128 credit hours of coursework. Charlotte Christian College uses a web-based college management system called Populi to offer online courses. Populi allows students to easily communicate with their professor and peers through online discussion boards. All online courses run 8 weeks and there are 2, 8-week sessions offered during the fall, spring and summer semesters. This allows students studying online to accelerate the pace of their learning.