Best Online Colleges in North Carolina of 2025
Are you looking for the right online college in North Carolina for your career goals? Here is your guide to the best online colleges in NC.
At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Why Trust BestColleges
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
Learn more about our
At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
There are many reasons to attend an online college in North Carolina. North Carolina has some of the top public and private research institutions.
Many of these colleges offer online programs — an education just as valuable as an in-person learning experience.
You may be looking for flexibility in your schedule or to take advantage of the cost savings of an online program. Regardless of the reason, discover the best online colleges in North Carolina, average tuition, and the fastest-growing careers in the state.
2025 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
$4,242
$21,238
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$3,812
$18,474
80%
56%
$4,337
$18,482
84%
30,298
Public
Yes
$3,812
$18,474
Charlotte, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$3,812
$18,474
80%
56%
$4,337
$18,482
84%
30,298
Public
Yes
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,443
$19,063
69%
70%
$4,719
$19,104
83%
17,843
Public
Yes
$4,443
$19,063
Wilmington, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,443
$19,063
69%
70%
$4,719
$19,104
83%
17,843
Public
Yes
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,452
$20,729
90%
72%
$4,749
$17,898
82%
26,785
Public
Yes
$4,452
$20,729
Greenville, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,452
$20,729
90%
72%
$4,749
$17,898
82%
26,785
Public
Yes
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$4,422
$19,582
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
Cost of College in North Carolina
The average cost of tuition in North Carolina is less than the national average.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the national average tuition cost for in-state students at public universities was $9,596 and $27,457 for out-of-state students in 2021-2022. The average tuition cost in North Carolina was a few thousand dollars cheaper, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.
Tuition and fees may also be different if you attend online. Many universities offer a flat rate for online programs, regardless of your residency status.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $7,337 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $23,452 |
| Private Four-Year | $38,346 |
| Public Two-Year (In-State) | $2,524 |
| Public Two-Year (Out-of-State) | $8,537 |
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in North Carolina
Many STEM careers in North Carolina are projected to grow over the next ten years, according to the NC Department of Commerce Labor & Economic Analysis.
The top-growing job that requires a bachelor’s degree is a data scientist, with a growth rate of 41%. Information security analysts, web developers, and software developers are also in top positions. Careers in industries like finance and healthcare are also projected to grow faster than average.
A bachelor’s degree is the first step to qualify for these jobs, and online colleges are making education more accessible than ever.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate | Median Annual Wage (2022) | Minimum Educational Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists | 41% | $121,970 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Logisticians | 37% | $68,410 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Information Security Analysts | 36% | $117,860 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Web Developers | 36% | $71,740 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 31% | $102,910 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Software Developers | 31% | $126,520 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Operations Research Analysts | 27% | $96,450 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | 26% | $97,700 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Financial Examiners | 25% | $83,610 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Market Research Analysts | 24% | $65,710 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Substance Use, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 24% | $49,050 | Bachelor’s degree |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in North Carolina
One of the most affordable online colleges in North Carolina is the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with an in-state tuition of just $3,571 for the 2023-2024 school year.
Other affordable online colleges in North Carolina include Fayetteville State University and Western Carolina University.
Explore More College Resources
10 Best HBCUs in North Carolina
North Carolina’s home to the oldest HBCU in the South. Learn how it measures up to each HBCU in the state.
by Ciarra Jones
Updated September 1, 2023
Private Universities in North Carolina: A Complete List
Considering higher education in the Tar Heel State? Check out our guide to the top private universities in North Carolina.
by Reese Lopez
Updated September 18, 2023
Best College Towns in North Carolina
Looking for the best place to live while you study? Uncover which places built a reputation as the best college towns in North Carolina.
Updated August 15, 2023