Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

Start your educational journey in the Tar Heel State today! Discover the top ranked online schools in North Carolina that align with your academic and career goals.
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Updated February 22, 2024

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If you live in North Carolina, you likely know the state is no slouch when it comes to higher education. Home to the prestigious University of North Carolina (UNC) system and a number of other top-tier public and private colleges, the state offers education options that can meet your different needs.

Attending one of the many online colleges in North Carolina can give you the flexibility to maintain a career while earning your degree. Read on to learn more about online schools in NC.

Why Consider Online Colleges in North Carolina?

  • Many online schools in NC offer accelerated programs, allowing you to earn your degree faster.
  • Research shows that having a bachelor's degree can lead to a higher salary.
  • North Carolina is home to several top universities, including Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill.
  • Online universities in NC may offer fields of study you can't find at local colleges.
  • An online degree program makes juggling work and family obligations easier.

Did You Know...

  • North Carolina is projected to add more than 524,800 new jobs from 2020-2030.
  • Jobs in nursing, cooking, and information security are projected to grow the fastest in NC, with projected growth rates of over 50% through 2030.
  • North Carolina offers some of the most affordable two-year colleges in the country.
  • The UNC System enrolled 244,500 students across all institutions in fall 2021.
  • In 2021, the UNC System unveiled a $97 million plan to support adult online education.

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10 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina of 2024

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
$3,812 $17,246 79%
#2 East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
$4,452 $20,729 94%
#3 University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC
$4,443 $18,508 68%
#4 North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, NC
$3,540 $17,050 57%
#5 University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC
$4,422 $19,581 91%
#6 Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
$4,242 $19,849 85%
#7 Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
$1,000 $5,000 79%
#8 North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC
$3,728 $16,435 76%
#9 Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC
$26,267 $26,267 59%
#10 Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC
$2,982 $14,590 82%

10 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina of 2024

#1 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $189
Out-of-State | $800

Credits to Graduate: 120

This urban research university tops our list of the best accredited online colleges in North Carolina. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte emphasizes hands-on learning, with 90% of undergrads participating in internships or research opportunities. The public institution’s online programs help working adults earn a degree in a flexible format. 

At UNC Charlotte, you can major in business administration, elementary education, political science, or sociology. Or earn a professional studies degree to strengthen career-ready skills.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,812
Out-of-state
$17,246
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,337
Out-of-state
$17,771
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
30,448
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $205
Out-of-State | $883

Credits to Graduate: 120

Choose from more than 100 online programs offered at East Carolina University. Through ECU Online, you can study business, technology, healthcare, education, or another field. The online programs are designed for busy adults and offer support services such as tutoring and career counseling.

You can finish a bachelor’s degree in health information management, communication, hospitality management, or psychology. These online degree completion programs offer affordable tuition rates for North Carolina residents. Submit an online application and official transcripts to apply.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
28,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • Wilmington, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $185
Out-of-State | $838

Credits to Graduate: 120

Many of the 17 colleges in the UNC system offer online degrees. At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, you can choose from on-campus or online enrollment. The public institution’s online programs prioritize convenience. 

You’ll choose from fully online or hybrid delivery, depending on your program and preferences. Study criminology, clinical research, or elementary education as a distance learner. Or choose unique hybrid programs like theater, German studies, or respiratory therapy. With a low in-state tuition rate, you can graduate with less debt.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,443
Out-of-state
$18,508
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,719
Out-of-state
$18,548
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
18,030
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

North Carolina A&T State University

  • Greensboro, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $120
Out-of-State | $581

Credits to Graduate: 120

North Carolina A&T State University is the largest and one of the best-known HBCUs in the country, with a strong reputation in STEM education. Through A&T Online, you can earn your degree online.

You’ll have more than 20 online programs to choose from, with designated support in the form of online learning resources, advising, and counseling. After choosing a major, you’ll work with a program coordinator to register and complete graduation requirements.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,540
Out-of-state
$17,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,745
Out-of-state
$17,545
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
13,322
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  • Greensboro, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $184
Out-of-State | $840

Credits to Graduate: 120

Nearly 18,000 students attend UNC Greensboro on its historic campus. But you can also earn an online degree at this public university. Explore subjects like psychology, economics, or business administration. Or earn your bachelor’s in hospitality and tourism management.

Programs like the professional studies major prioritize flexibility, with no set class meeting times and real-world projects. You can also design a custom area of focus. You’ll benefit from a flexible schedule and affordable in-state tuition rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,422
Out-of-state
$19,581
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,219
Out-of-state
$18,937
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
19,038
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $177
Out-of-State | $885

Credits to Graduate: 120

Over 21,000 students attend Appalachian State University. The public institution also offers innovative online degrees through App State Online. The accredited institution launched the first fully online bachelor’s in veterinary technology and offers an online RN-to-BSN degree. 

You can also major in advertising, child development, management, or social work. You’ll take classes offered synchronously and asynchronously, with courses taught by the same faculty that teaches on campus. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,849
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$19,849
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
20,641
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

Western Carolina University

  • Cullowhee, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $42
Out-of-State | $208

Credits to Graduate: 120

Located by the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, Western Carolina University emphasizes experiential learning. The public institution also offers accredited online degrees through WCU Online. With its asynchronous course options, WCU makes it easier to balance school with work or other responsibilities. 

You can major in criminal justice, business administration, entrepreneurship, or emergency and disaster management. You can also earn a degree in engineering technology with a hybrid option. These degree-completion programs at WCU allow you to complete your education with a schedule that works for you. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,435
Out-of-state
$14,842
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
11,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

North Carolina Central University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $184
Out-of-State | $727

Credits to Graduate: 120

One of several HBCUs in the Tar Heel State, North Carolina Central University enrolls around 8,000 students. You can also earn a degree online by enrolling in NCCU Online. Choose from programs in kinesiology, nursing, criminal justice, or education. Or you can study information technology if you want to launch a tech career.

You can also save money by taking classes year-round. NCCU offers a significant tuition discount for its summer sessions, charging under $100 per credit for North Carolina residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,728
Out-of-state
$16,435
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,740
Out-of-state
$17,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
7,953
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

Lees-McRae College

  • Banner Elk, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $375
Out-of-State | $375

Credits to Graduate: 120

A private college located in Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College encourages critical and creative thinking through its collaborative approach. The college’s online degree completion programs help transfer students with an associate degree qualify for new career opportunities.

By using an eight-week term, Lees-McRae allows you to start your program as soon as possible. You can major in business administration, criminal justice, or human services. These degree completion programs take an estimated two years.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,267
Out-of-state
$26,267
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
873
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Accredited Online Colleges in North Carolina

Fayetteville State University

  • Fayetteville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $42
Out-of-State | $208

Credits to Graduate: 120

Founded in 1867, Fayetteville State University has a long history as an HBCU. The public institution also charges one of the lowest tuition rates in the country. And you can choose from 10 online degree completion programs offered at FSU. 

Study sociology, business, mathematics, or nursing as a distance learner. Or major in intelligence studies or computer science. You’ll need a minimum 2.0 GPA to apply. Academic advisors help you complete graduation requirements. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,982
Out-of-state
$14,590
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,438
Out-of-state
$14,503
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
6,748
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online (ASO) uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using data like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid awarded, and program offerings. And all our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

Our detailed methodology page can tell you more about how we create school rankings.


How Accreditation Works for Online Colleges in North Carolina

If you're considering online colleges in North Carolina, always make sure a school holds proper accreditation.

Accreditation tells you that the school has met certain academic standards and will provide you with a quality education. Avoid schools that don't don't hold accreditation.

Accreditation comes in two major forms: institutional and programmatic.

Most accredited online colleges in North Carolina will be accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

How Much Do Online Schools in NC Cost?

Tuition rates for online colleges in North Carolina vary, but you'll generally pay anywhere from $2,500-$37,000 per year depending on which school you attend.

Factors such as whether the school is public or private, whether you enroll part time or full time, and whether you're a state resident can all affect how much you pay.

In general, public schools charge lower tuition rates than private colleges. You'll pay the lowest tuition at public schools as an in-state resident.

Financial aid in the form of grants and scholarships can also lower your overall college expenses. You should always submit the FAFSA to see whether you qualify for federal funding.

What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs in North Carolina?

If you plan to attend one of the many online colleges in North Carolina, you may already be considering your career options after graduation.

Those living in or planning to move to North Carolina can expect huge growth for highly skilled jobs such as nurse practitioner, information security analyst, and statistician.

10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in North Carolina
Job Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
Nurse Practitioners 55% $102,370
Restaurant Cooks 54% $28,660
Information Security Analysts 51% $119,980
Costume Attendants 50% $50,110
Statisticians 50% $104,670
Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers 46% $20,530
Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants 44% $27,080
Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes 42% $47,570
Solar Photovoltaic Installers 39% $37,130
Dancers 39% Unavailable

Sources: Projections Central, BLS

What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs in North Carolina?

Most of the highest-paying jobs in North Carolina require advanced education credentials, usually a master's or first-professional degree.

That said, the state also boasts plenty of high-paying jobs you can pursue with just a bachelor's degree, such as airline pilot, natural science manager, and financial manager.

10 Highest-Paying Jobs in North Carolina
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2021) Minimum Education Required
Ophthalmologists $199,310 First-Professional
Nurse Anesthetists $195,250 Master's
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers $172,960 Bachelor's
Dentists, General $167,600 First-Professional
Physicians, All Other $165,890 First-Professional
Podiatrists $162,730 First-Professional
Anesthesiologists $154,540 First-Professional
Law Teachers, Postsecondary $154,400 First-Professional
Natural Sciences Managers $152,220 Bachelor's
Financial Managers $151,440 Bachelor's

Source: BLS

City Spotlight: Explore Online Colleges in Raleigh, NC

The capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is part of the state's Research Triangle, which is home to firms such as IBM and Fidelity Investments.

Whether you're a Raleigh resident or an out-of-state learner, you can attend a Raleigh-based community college online.

Wake Technical Community College, for instance, offers over 100 completely online associate, diploma, and certificate programs.

Many colleges in Raleigh award online bachelor's and graduate degrees as well. For example, North Carolina State University — the largest four-year university in the state — offers over 120 online programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Online Colleges in Raleigh, North Carolina
School Accreditation Institution Type
Wake Technical Community College Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Public 2-Year
North Carolina State University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Public 4-Year
Shaw University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Private 4-Year
William Peace University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Private 4-Year

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in North Carolina

Is college free in North Carolina?

While not all college is free in North Carolina, the state does offer tuition incentives that can help lower your overall education expenses.

How many colleges and universities are there in North Carolina?

North Carolina is home to 135 colleges and universities, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This number includes community colleges and public and private four-year colleges and universities.

What NC colleges are online?

When it comes to online colleges in North Carolina, you have lots of options. Many of the state's two- and four-year colleges offer online courses and online programs in a variety of subjects.

Most schools in the UNC System offer online degrees, with online courses available to students across the 17-campus system.

What are the requirements for in-state tuition in North Carolina?

To receive in-state tuition in North Carolina, you must establish state residency. The state requires you to live in North Carolina for at least 12 consecutive months before you can qualify for in-state tuition.

Can you go to UNC-Chapel Hill online?

If you graduated from high school in 2022, you might be able to receive free tuition at any of the state's 58 community colleges through the North Carolina Longleaf Commitment Grant program. The UNC System also offers reduced tuition guarantees through its NC Promise program.


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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.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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