Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Wilmington, North Carolina |
| Online | uncw.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Midsize City |
| Size | Mid-size |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW), nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean in southeastern North Carolina, offers a scenic coastal setting just minutes from downtown Wilmington. Founded in 1947, UNCW has grown to encompass an array of architecturally diverse buildings spread across a 661-acre main campus, fostering a vibrant academic environment. This public institution is known for a moderately selective admissions process and boasts strong programs in marine biology, business, nursing, and education, reflecting a comprehensive academic profile that serves both undergraduate and graduate students. UNCW provides on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartment-style living arrangements, to accommodate a portion of its student body. While UNCW prides itself on academic pursuits, it also fields competitive NCAA Division I athletic teams known as the Seahawks, notably recognized in men's basketball and baseball.
In the most recent statistical year 16,860 prospective students applied, and 11,605 were granted admission. Of those admitted 2,370 enrolled in the school. 13,561 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 4,282 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $4,443 plus fees of $2,795. UNCW is ranked 377 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
UNCW is rated within the top 40% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 7 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for University of North Carolina at Wilmington within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#377 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#102 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#8 in Best Colleges in North Carolina
#4 in Best Public Colleges in North Carolina
#537 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#13 in Best Value Colleges in North Carolina
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1220/1370 |
| ACT | 24/29 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.56 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Feb 1, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | Low |
| Application Fee | $80 |
Annual Cost to Attend
North Carolina Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,130 |
| Other Fees | $2,795 |
| Room and Board | $12,120 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,978 |
| Total One Year Cost | $26,466 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,130 |
| Other Fees | $2,795 |
| Room and Board | $12,120 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,978 |
| Total One Year Cost | $41,086 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 22% |
| Social Sciences | 10% |
| Education | 9% |
| Psychology | 8% |
| Biology | 8% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering UNCW are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=199218 IPEDS survey data for University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
Current students may use the University of North Carolina at Wilmington GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.