Attending one of the cheapest colleges in North Carolina is a great way to get a college degree without much financial burden. The average cost of tuition at public schools is $9,400 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, there are plenty of low-tuition colleges in North Carolina that offer cheaper tuition rates.
In this article, you’ll find everything you should know about the most affordable colleges in North Carolina, from tuition rates to financial aid opportunities. For students who want flexibility in their studies, we also cover the cheapest online colleges in North Carolina. You’ll also find the highest-paying career options that await college graduates in this state and how to pursue them.
How Much Does College Cost in North Carolina?
On average, college in North Carolina costs $3,500 per semester for in-state students, according to the College Foundation of North Carolina. Most public universities in North Carolina offer tuition rates around this price. Additionally, there are plenty of scholarships and financial aid options available to students attending college in North Carolina.
In addition to tuition and fees, the overall cost of attendance for college includes the cost of books, transportation, and housing. According to the Education Data Initiative, the cost of room and board ranges from $9,395 to $12,540 per year, and the cost of books exceeds $1,200 per year.
Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State University | Boone | $177/credit (in state), $844/credit (out of state) | $269/credit (in state), $1,103/credit (out of state) |
| Western Carolina University | Cullowhee and Asheville | $182/credit hour (in state), $349/credit hour (out of state) | $359/credit hour (in state), $937/credit hour (out of state) |
| University of North Carolina School of the Arts | Winston-Salem | $271/credit (in state), $989/credit (out of state) | $511/credit (in state), $1,328/credit (out of state) |
| University of North Carolina at Asheville | Asheville | $305/credit (in state), $1,028/credit (out of state) | N/A |
| Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville | $341/credit (in state), $825/credit (out of state) | $442/credit (in state), $1,056/credit (out of state) |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh | $380/credit (in state), $1,286/credit (out of state) | $650/credit (in state), $1,717/credit (out of state) |
| Elizabeth City State University | Elizabeth City | $396/credit (in state), $562/credit (out of state) | $796/credit (in state), $1,523/credit (out of state) |
| North Carolina A&T State University | Greensboro | $442/credit (in state), $2,131/credit (out of state) | $593/credit (in state), $2,193/credit (out of state) |
| Winston-Salem State University | Winston-Salem | $498/credit (in state), $942/credit (out of state) | $572/credit (in state), $1,157/credit (out of state) |
| East Carolina University | Greenville | $901/credit (in state), $1,580/credit (out of state) | $980/credit (in state), $1,710/credit (out of state) |
Cheapest Universities in North Carolina: A Closer Look
Some of the cheapest universities in North Carolina are Western Carolina University, University of North Carolina at Asheville, Appalachian State University, and North Carolina A&T State University. Keep reading to learn more about these low-tuition schools and the programs they offer.
Appalachian State University is a public college founded in 1899. It’s one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System. The state university enrolls more than 20,000 students and offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, both on-campus and online.
Appalachian State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $177/credit (in state), $844/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $269/credit (in state), $1,103/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Appalachian State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,410
- Books and Supplies: $800
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,681
Popular Appalachian State University Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program offers seven concentrations, including business, social science, and education. Students can also participate in plenty of research projects and internships throughout the course.
- Bachelor of Science in Child Development. This 120-credit program includes courses in child development, preschool instruction, and distance teaching. Upon completion, students are eligible for licensure or certification in North Carolina.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Management. Students can take this program entirely online. The curriculum includes courses in accounting, business mathematics, and marketing.
Founded in 1889, Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public college that's part of the University of North Carolina (UNC) system. It has a student body of over 12,000 students. WCU offers over 115 undergraduate programs and more than 40 graduate programs in engineering, science, healthcare, and education.
Western Carolina University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $182/credit hour (in state), $349/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $359/credit hour (in state), $937/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Western Carolina University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $4,367
- Books and Supplies: $621
- On-Campus Room and Board: $11,097
Popular Western Carolina University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Students enrolled in this program can pursue an accelerated Bachelor’s and Master's Degree in Chemistry and earn both degrees in five years. This bachelor’s degree is approved by the American Chemical Society.
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. This program requires earning 125 credits from liberal studies and education coursework. Completion of this program will lead to a North Carolina teaching license for the elementary level.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program is meant to be completed in eight semesters. Graduates will be eligible to apply to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Founded in 1963, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) is the oldest public arts conservatory in the nation. It became part of the UNC system in 1972. UNCSA offers academic programs in dance, design and production, drama, filmmaking, and music.
University of North Carolina School of the Arts Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $271/credit (in state), $989/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $511/credit (in state), $1,328/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of North Carolina School of the Arts NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $8,941
- Books and Supplies: $1,350
- On-Campus Room and Board: $11,502
Popular University of North Carolina School of the Arts Programs
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Classical Ballet. UNCSA graduates of this degree can work as dancers, choreographers, and artistic directors. This program can be completed in four years.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting. This four-year program prepares students for acting careers in television, film, and theater. UNCSA offers students plenty of opportunities to meet with industry professionals, such as agents and casting directors.
- Bachelor of Music in Voice. This four-year bachelor’s degree is one of UNCSA’s 10 music programs. Students have plenty of performing opportunities, including participation in opera productions and festivals.
The University of North Carolina at Asheville is a public university founded in 1927. It’s the only liberal arts institution in the UNC system. UNC Asheville only offers undergraduate programs and has an enrollment of 3,300 students.
University of North Carolina at Asheville Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $305/credit (in state), $1,028/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of North Carolina at Asheville NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,319
- Books and Supplies: $1,200
- On-Campus Room and Board: $10,248
Popular University of North Carolina at Asheville Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Art. This program offers six concentrations, including ceramics, painting, and sculpture. UNC Asheville offers hands-on learning in this program through internships, exhibitions, and other events.
- Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. Journalism, video production, communication theory, and ethics are included in this degree’s coursework. Students can engage in activities such as news writing, filmmaking, and off-campus internships.
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program provides training in psychological theory, research, and application. Students can join several clubs, including an active chapter of the National Honor Society in Psychology, while enrolled in this program.
Founded in 1865, Fayetteville State University (FSU) is a historically black university. This public university is also part of the UNC system. FSU offers more than 90 academic programs in different fields, including business, criminal justice, education, nursing, and psychology.
Fayetteville State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $341/credit (in state), $825/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $442/credit (in state), $1,056/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Fayetteville State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $5,379
- Books and Supplies: $420
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,440
Popular Fayetteville State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biology. Plant sciences and organismal biology are some of the concentrations in this degree. FSU students can work with faculty members in a variety of research programs.
- Bachelor of Science in General Business Administration. This online program will prepare you for careers in business. Required courses include business ethics, finance, microeconomics, and strategic planning.
- Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration. This program includes courses in business administration, economics, and human resource management. FSU offers opportunities to study abroad to students enrolled in this program.
Founded in 1887, North Carolina State University (NCSU) is a public land-grant research university. It is the largest school in the UNC system. NCSU at Raleigh offers undergraduate and graduate programs in agricultural sciences, chemistry, social sciences, and public health.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $380/credit (in state), $1,286/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $650/credit (in state), $1,717/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 47%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
North Carolina State University at Raleigh NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $9,131
- Books and Supplies: $1,094
- On-Campus Room and Board: $11,957
Popular North Carolina State University at Raleigh Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science. This program offers specialties in areas such as animal science, crop science, and horticultural science. According to US News & World Report, this is one of the 50 best programs in plant and animal sciences.
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical and Health Sciences Engineering. This program aims to prepare students for careers in healthcare and biomedical engineering. The curriculum includes courses in chemistry, biomedical engineering, and biology.
- Bachelor of Science in Polymer and Color Chemistry. This program offers three concentrations, with one of them certified by the American Chemical Society. The curriculum includes courses in calculus, polymer chemistry, and engineering.
Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is a public, historically black university. ECSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, healthcare, and education.
Elizabeth City State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $396/credit (in state), $562/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $796/credit (in state), $1,523/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Elizabeth City State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $3,326
- Books and Supplies: $1,240
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,509
Popular Elizabeth City State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting. This bachelor’s program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It’s designed to prepare students for careers in public, corporate, and government accounting.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. ECSU students can take concentrations in data science and information systems through this program. Through this course, they can do internships in companies, such as Microsoft, IMB, and MITRE.
- Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security. This online program prepares students for careers in private security, surveillance and investigations, and homeland security. A total of 120 credits are required for its completion.
Founded in 1891, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical (A&T) State University is a public college and historically black land-grant research university. It’s also a member of the UNC system. This school has a total enrollment of 13,322 students and offers 54 undergraduate, 30 master’s, and 11 doctoral degree programs both on campus and online.
North Carolina A&T State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $442/credit (in state), $2,131/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $593/credit (in state), $2,193/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
North Carolina A&T State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,733
- Books and Supplies: $730
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,419
Popular North Carolina A&T State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Environmental Systems. This program covers topics such as climate change, food security, environmental politics, and land management. Its graduates will be prepared for careers as environmental scientists.
- Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Studies.This 120-credit program includes courses in human development, education, and psychology. It prepares students to become North Carolina state-certified child care providers.
- Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management. This program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The majority of its graduates find employment within 90 days of graduation.
Founded in 1892, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is a historically black public institution and is part of the UNC system. It has an enrollment of over 5,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to one. WSSU offers 34 baccalaureate degrees, seven master's degrees, and two doctoral degrees.
Winston-Salem State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $498/credit (in state), $942/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $572/credit (in state), $1,157/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Winston-Salem State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,247
- Books and Supplies: $1,690
- On-Campus Room and Board: $11,440
Popular Winston-Salem State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. This program enables students to identify and analyze user needs in selecting and creating IT systems. The curriculum includes computer science, science, and mathematics courses.
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing. This program aims to provide students with fundamental training in marketing. Its required courses include marketing strategy, business plan foundation, and principles of retailing.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. WSSU offers four undergraduate programs in nursing, including an accelerated program that can be completed in 13 months. WSSU has been ranked as the best historically black nursing school by NursingProcess.org.
Founded in 1907, East Carolina University (ECU) is a public research university with an enrollment of more than 28,000 students. ECU offers 87 bachelor’s, 69 master’s, and 18 doctoral degrees. Its most popular programs are nursing, management, biology, and marketing.
East Carolina University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $901/credit (in state), $1,580/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $980/credit (in state), $1,710/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
East Carolina University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,297
- Books and Supplies: $1,546
- On-Campus Room and Board: $10,450
Popular East Carolina University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biology. This 120-credit program offers two concentrations, one in ecology and one in molecular and cell biology. The curriculum intends to give students a background in biodiversity, cell biology, evolution, ecology, genetics, and physiology.
- Bachelor of Science in Management. Human resource management, international business, and general business are the concentration options for this program. Graduates of this degree will be prepared to occupy various managerial positions.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This baccalaureate program is meant to be completed in four years and one summer session. Students will gain experience from clinical practices in hospitals, private homes, schools, and other clinics.
Cheapest Online Colleges in North Carolina
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Western Carolina University | $66/credit (in state), $232/credit (out of state) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate, PhD |
| North Carolina A&T State University | $120/credit (in state), $576/credit (out of state) | Bachelor’s |
| Winston-Salem State University | $166/credit (in state), $526/credit (out of state) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Appalachian State University | $177/credit (in state), $844/credit (out of state) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate, PhD |
| North Carolina Central University | $184/credit (in state), $727/credit (out of state) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate |
Cheapest Colleges in North Carolina by In-State Tuition
- Appalachian State University | $177/credit
- Western Carolina University | $182/credit hour
- University of North Carolina School of the Arts | $271/credit
- University of North Carolina at Asheville | $305/credit
- Fayetteville State University | $341/credit
Cheapest Colleges in North Carolina by Out-of-State Tuition
- Western Carolina University | $349/credit hour
- Elizabeth City State University | $562/credit
- Fayetteville State University | $825/credit
- Appalachian State University | $844/credit
- Winston-Salem State University | $942/credit
Why Is College So Expensive?
College is so expensive because of factors such as tuition, room and board, books, and transportation. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), on average, the cost of attendance for undergraduate students is $28,775 per year.
Tuition
According to US News & World Report, in-state tuition and fees at public institutions have grown by 211 percent in the past 20 years. Meanwhile, the College Foundation of North Carolina reported that the average cost of tuition and fees for undergraduate students in North Carolina averages $3,500 per semester. However, this cost may vary widely across different schools.
Books and Supplies
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, college textbook prices have increased 88 percent since 2006. On average, college students spend approximately $1,240 per year on books and supplies such as paper, pens, notebooks, and other basic stationery items, based on research by Education Data Initiative.
Personal Expenses
College students spend between $2,733 and $6,022 on personal expenses every year, according to the Education Data Initiative. Thes costs include necessary living expenses, such as food, transportation, and personal care items, as well as social and entertainment expenses.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Apply for financial aid. Scholarships and other types of financial aid, such as grants and work-study jobs, can significantly reduce your education expenses. Filling out the FAFSA form is a must if you want to get financial aid.
- Get used books. Textbooks can be expensive. Buying or renting used books, instead of buying new ones, can help you save a lot of money. You can also borrow books from a fellow student or from the university library.
- Use campus amenities. College students have access to so many amenities, such as workshops, conferences, health services, and fitness facilities. Make use of these free amenities to help you save money on activities like going to the gym.
- Stay close to home. A great way to save money when attending college is to attend school close to home. This will allow you to save on room and board fees, as well as transportation expenses.
- Always carry your student ID. A valid student ID can help you get discounts on many things, including clothing, laptops, and transportation. So make sure you always have yours in hand when shopping.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in North Carolina
- Gather the necessary documents and information to fill out the FAFSA form. Be ready with your social security number, tax documents, and bank and income records.
- Fill out and sign the FAFSA form. You can do this online, through the myStudentAid app, or by hand. You’ll need to answer questions about you and your financial situation.
- Review the Student Aid Report once you’ve submitted the FAFSA form. If there are any mistakes, make the necessary corrections.
- Your school’s financial aid office will send you an offer, and you’ll have to choose the financial aid you want. It’s important to review your options before making a decision.
- Renew your FAFSA form every academic year. You’ll have to provide new income and tax information and update any information that may have changed.
Scholarships for Students in North Carolina
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship | North Carolina General Assembly | Up to $7,640 (12 credit hours) | Must fill out the FAFSA form listing at least one qualifying North Carolina college |
| North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship | North Carolina General Assembly | Up to $3,768 | Must be an undergraduate student enrolled at an eligible North Carolina institution and must meet the requirements for the Federal Pell Grant |
| Smile Scholarship | Stanley Dentistry | $1,000 (full-time enrolled) | Must be a North Carolina resident pursuing a degree in dentistry |
| Asheville Latin Americans Achieving Success WNC College Scholarship | Asheville Latin Americans Achieving Success (ALAS) | $600 to $1,000 | Must be an undocumented or DACA-recipient Latin student pursuing a degree at a Western North Carolina university |
| MPower Women in STEM | MPower | $1,000 – $6,000 | Must be enrolled in a STEM degree program at a MPOWER supported institution |
| Jagannathan Scholarship | North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority | Varies | Must be an undergraduate student enrolled at Appalachian State University with proven financial need and academic achievement |
| Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship | Golden LEAF Foundation | Up to $14,000 ($3,500/year) | Must be a high school senior or current community college transfer student pursuing a degree at an eligible North Carolina university |
| Duke Energy Hispanics in Engineering Scholarship | North Carolina Society of Hispanic Professionals | $500 – $2,500 | Must be a student of Hispanic/Latino background pursuing an engineering degree in a North Carolina community college or a university |
| NCNA Southwest Region Scholarship | North Carolina Nurse Association and North Carolina Foundation for Nursing | Up to $1,000/year | Must be a registered nurse and member of the North Carolina Nurse Association resident pursuing additional education |
| Davidson and Jones Hotel Corporation Scholarship | North Carolina Lodging and Restaurant Association | $1,000 | Must be a junior or senior pursuing a degree in culinary arts, hospitality management, or tourism |
How to Choose a Cheap College in North Carolina
There are many low-tuition colleges in North Carolina. To shortlist schools, consider factors such as tuition and housing cost and financial aid opportunities of each school. We give an overview below of how you can choose a cheap college in North Carolina.
Cost of Tuition
Tuition is the price you pay for classes. It’s one of the biggest college expenses, so select schools with tuition rates that fit your budget. Attending one of the cheapest colleges in North Carolina can help you save on education expenses.
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Room and Board Fees
In addition to tuition and fees, the cost of on-campus housing can make attending college very expensive. Consider your options when choosing an accommodation that suits your budget better. A great way of saving money is attending a college close to home or living with family or relatives.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Applying to financial aid packages can help you save on college tuition and other education expenses. There are many scholarships available to students enrolled in North Carolina’s colleges and universities. To apply, fill out the FAFSA application or contact your school’s financial aid office.
Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in North Carolina
| Job Title | Average Salary in North Carolina | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Physician | $345,230 | Medical Doctor |
| Dermatologist | $314,090 | Medical Doctor |
| Chief Executive | $262,660 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Psychiatrist | $224,080 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Dentist | $189,980 | Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $152,040 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $121,430 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Data Scientist | $113,980 | Master’s degree |
| Nurse Practitioner | $112,730 | Master’s degree |
| Soil and Plant Scientist | $102,740 | Bachelor’s degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in North Carolina: Explained
- Average Salary: $310,640
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $345,230
- Overall Job Outlook: 3% from 2020 to 2030
Emergency medicine physicians, commonly called ER doctors, are medical professionals who specialize in emergency care. They provide immediate evaluation, care, and stabilization of patients. To become one, you’ll need to attend college and medical school, do residencies, and earn a medical doctor degree.
- Average Salary: $302,740
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $314,090
- Overall Job Outlook: 29% from 2020 to 2030
Dermatologists diagnose and treat hair, nail, and skin diseases. They also perform medical and cosmetic procedures. Becoming a dermatologist is a great career choice. On top of an attractive salary, this career offers the chance to help patients overcome illnesses and gain confidence.
- Average Salary: $179,520
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $262,660
- Overall Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
Chief executives create strategies and policies to help organizations meet their goals. Among their duties are coordinating daily work activities and overseeing finances. They can work in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, technical services, healthcare, and government.
- Average Salary: $249,760
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $224,080
- Overall Job Outlook: 3% from 2020 to 2030
Psychiatrists are medically certified professionals that treat and diagnose patients with mental health issues. They give patients counseling, psychoanalysis, and medication. To become a psychiatrist, you’ll need to attend college and medical school, complete residencies, and earn a license.
- Average Salary: $163,220
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $189,980
- Overall Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in oral health. Among their job duties are diagnosing, treating, and preventing decay, disease, and tooth loss. To become a dentist, you need a doctoral degree and a professional license. Dentistry is a great career for those that want to become experts in all things related to dental hygiene and health.
- Average Salary: $159,010
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $152,040
- Overall Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030
Computer and information systems managers determine the IT goals of an organization and implement practices to meet those goals. A bachelor's degree is typically required to become an IT manager. However, bootcamps and online resources can also help you achieve these career goals.
- Average Salary: $101,340
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $152,040
- Overall Job Outlook: 32% from 2020 to 2030
Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate administrative tasks in healthcare organizations. They work closely with doctors, nurses, laboratory technologists, and other healthcare workers. To pursue this profession, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Average Salary: $108,660
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $113,980
- Overall Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
Data scientists analyze data to provide insights and solutions to an organization’s programs. You can go to college and earn a degree to become a data scientist. However, there are other options, such as data science bootcamps, which can help you become a data scientist in less than a year.
- Average Salary: $120,680
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $112,730
- Overall Job Outlook: 45% from 2020 to 2030
Nurse practitioners provide nursing and healthcare services to patients. They assess and determine how to improve or treat patients. To become a nurse practitioner, you need a Master’s Degree in Nursing and a state Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license.
- Average Salary: $66,750
- Average Salary in North Carolina: $102,740
- Overall Job Outlook: 9% from 2020 to 2030
Soil and plant scientists examine the composition of soil and how it affects plant or crop growth. This allows them to plan how to improve crop yields and advise food and enhance its production. Typically, a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture or a related field is required to become a soil and plant scientist.
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in North Carolina Worth It?
Yes, attending a cheap college in North Carolina is worth it because it’ll allow you to get a college degree without much financial burden. The cheapest universities in North Carolina offer high-quality degree programs in a wide range of fields that can help you jumpstart your career.
Cheapest Colleges in North Carolina FAQ
Some of the cheapest colleges in North Carolina are Appalachian State University, Western Carolina University, University of North Carolina at Asheville, Fayetteville State University, and North Carolina State University at Raleigh. These schools offer a wide range of academic programs with some of the lowest tuition rates in the nation.
Yes, some community colleges in North Carolina offer free college tuition. Through the North Carolina Free Tuition Plan, students can attend schools such as Warren Wilson College for free. Moreover, there are plenty of scholarships and financial aid options available to students enrolled in four-year universities in this state.
Yes, North Carolina has a college Promise Scholarship. Through the North Carolina Promise Scholarship program, select students get reduced tuition of $500 per semester. However, this scholarship is only available to students enrolled in Elizabeth City State University, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and Western Carolina University.
To apply to the cheapest universities in North Carolina, you’ll have to fill out an application form, pay the application fee, and submit documents, such as academic transcripts and standardized test scores. Other admission requirements are recommendation letters, essays, and interviews.
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