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Colleges and Universities in North Carolina
North Carolina — the Tar Heel State — is home to 141 accredited colleges and universities, including 57 public institutions and 84 private schools. The state flagship, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Charlotte to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in North Carolina. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in North Carolina at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 141
- Public universities: 57
- Private colleges: 84
- Flagship institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Largest higher-ed city: Charlotte
Types of colleges in North Carolina
Public universities in North Carolina are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to North Carolina residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in North Carolina include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in North Carolina often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in North Carolina
How many colleges are in North Carolina?
There are 141 accredited colleges and universities in North Carolina in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 57 public and 84 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in North Carolina?
Community colleges in North Carolina typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in North Carolina?
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is among the largest and most well-known universities in North Carolina. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.