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University Of North Carolina At Charlotte: Fees And Rankings 2026!
Upwards And Onwards!
Table of Content
- About the University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Rankings
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Courses
- Undergraduate Degrees
- Postgraduate Degrees
- PhD Degrees
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Tuition Fees
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Scholarships
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Admissions Process
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Eligibility Criteria
- Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degrees
- Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degrees
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Student Life
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte Placements
- Student Apartments near University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Rooted in growth and powered by progress, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) is one of North Carolina’s leading public research universities. Established in 1946 in Charlotte, North Carolina, the university has evolved into a major hub for innovation, urban research, and professional education. Known for its strong industry connections and forward-looking academic approach, UNC Charlotte offers students a dynamic environment where classroom learning connects seamlessly with real-world impact. Whether you are exploring rankings, academic programs, or campus life, this guide covers everything you need to know about the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
About the University of North Carolina at Charlotte
It is a public research university situated on a sprawling 1,000-acre campus in Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina. The university serves a student population of over 30,000 students, including approximately 24,000 undergraduate and 6,000 graduate and doctoral students. UNC Charlotte hosts a diverse international community representing more than 100 countries, contributing to its global academic environment. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, the university emphasizes personalized instruction and faculty accessibility. UNC Charlotte offers over 170 undergraduate majors and more than 150 graduate and professional programs across Engineering, Business, Computing, Education, Liberal Arts, and Health Sciences.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Rankings
UNC Charlotte consistently earns recognition for academic quality, research growth, and student outcomes. In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, the university is ranked among the Top 100 Public Universities in the United States. It is particularly recognized for its Engineering, Business, and Computer Science programs, as well as its role as a major urban research institution. The university holds strong visibility across North Carolina and continues to gain national recognition.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Courses
The university offers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs designed to meet evolving industry and research demands. Undergraduate programs focus on practical learning, innovation, and career readiness, while graduate and doctoral programs emphasize advanced research, leadership, and specialization. Below is an overview of the courses offered at the university.
Undergraduate Degrees
The university provides a wide range of undergraduate programs across Engineering, Computing, Business, Sciences, Humanities, and Education. Experiential learning opportunities such as internships, co-ops, and industry projects are integral to many programs. Popular undergraduate programs include:
1. Mechanical Engineering
2. Business Administration
3. Computer Science
4. Psychology
Postgraduate Degrees
UNC Charlotte offers a strong portfolio of master’s programs tailored to professional advancement and research-oriented careers. These programs are especially popular among students pursuing roles in Technology, Management, Healthcare, and Public Service. Popular postgraduate programs include:
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
2. Master of Science in Engineering
3. Master of Data Science and Business Analytics
PhD Degrees
For students focused on advanced research and academic leadership, UNC Charlotte offers doctoral programs that emphasize interdisciplinary research and innovation. Popular doctoral offerings include:
1. PhD in Electrical Engineering
2. PhD in Education
3. PhD in Computing and Information Systems
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Tuition Fees
Understanding tuition and living costs is essential for planning your education. As a public institution, UNC Charlotte offers affordable tuition for North Carolina residents while remaining competitive for out-of-state and international students. In-state undergraduate students pay approximately $3,800 per year in tuition and fees, while out-of-state undergraduates can expect costs of around $20,000 annually. Graduate tuition varies by program, with in-state rates starting at approximately $4,300 per year, and out-of-state rates averaging $18,000–$21,000 annually. Additional expenses include housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal costs, which should be planned according to the cost of living in Charlotte.
Cost Category | NC Resident (USD) | Non-NC Resident (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Tuition & Fees | ~$3,812 | ~$20,018 |
Housing & Meals | ~$15,010 | ~$15,010 |
| Books & Supplies | ~$600–$700 | ~$600–$700 |
| Transportation | ~$1,340–$2,000 | ~$2,000 |
| Miscellaneous & Personal | ~$2,360 | ~$2,360 |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost | ~$26,800–$28,000 | ~$43,000–$44,000 |
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Scholarships
UNC Charlotte offers a wide range of merit-based and need-based scholarships to support domestic and international students. Incoming freshmen may qualify for institutional merit scholarships awarded through the NinerScholars Portal. The highly competitive Levine Scholars Program provides full tuition, housing, and enrichment funding for exceptional students. Another excellent opportunity for students seeking financial support is amberscholar, which offers $12,000 in scholarships to help students pursue higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of notable scholarships available at UNC Charlotte.
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Typical Award (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Levine Scholars Program | Premier merit award for top freshmen (academic & community leadership) | Up to ~$105,000 in-state or ~$155,000 out-of-state over 4 years |
Merit Scholarships | Merit awards based on academic achievement & leadership | ~$3,000–$10,000+ annually |
| Need-Based Scholarships | Awards based on FAFSA/financial need | Varies (partial to significant) |
| Honors College Scholarships | For Honors Program students | ~$1,000–$2,000 annually |
| Departmental Scholarships | College/major-specific awards | ~$1,000–$3,000+ annually |
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Admissions Process
The university follows a clear and student-focused admissions process for both undergraduate and graduate applicants. Applicants must meet academic and documentation requirements specific to their program. Below is a step-by-step overview of the admissions process. Below is a step-by-step overview of the admissions process.
1. Fill out the Application: Apply online through the UNC Charlotte application portal or Common App.
2. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable $75 application fee is required.
3. Submit Academic Transcripts: Provide official high school or college transcripts.
4. Standardized Test Scores (Optional): SAT or ACT scores are optional but may strengthen applications.
5. Personal Statement: Submit an essay outlining academic goals and motivation for choosing UNC Charlotte.
6. Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Some programs may request academic or professional references.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Eligibility Criteria
The university follows a holistic admissions approach, considering academic performance, coursework rigor, achievements, and overall potential. Eligibility requirements vary by program, but the criteria below reflect general admission standards.
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degrees
1. Academic Performance: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
2. Standardized Test Scores (Optional): SAT or ACT scores are not required, but can enhance applications.
3. Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Though not mandatory, submitting letters from teachers or mentors can strengthen an application.
Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degrees
1. Academic Background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Certain programs may require GRE or GMAT scores, while others have waived this requirement. Applicants should check their program's specific criteria.
3. Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Student Life
UNC Charlotte offers a lively student life rooted in diversity, leadership, and campus engagement. With over 400 student organizations, students can participate in academic clubs, cultural associations, sports, and volunteer initiatives. The campus is known for its welcoming environment and modern facilities, with athletic events and campus festivals playing a central role in student culture.
Beyond campus, students enjoy Charlotte’s urban lifestyle, including cafés, restaurants, music venues, and professional sports. According to the Charlotte city guide, popular weekend destinations include Raleigh, Asheville, and nearby outdoor attractions, offering a balance between academics and recreation.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Placements
UNC Charlotte provides comprehensive career support through its University Career Center, helping students prepare for employment and graduate study. Approximately 88–90 percent of graduates secure employment or continue education within six months of graduation. Alumni work across industries such as Technology, Finance, Engineering, Healthcare, and Consulting. Top recruiters include Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Deloitte, Microsoft, and IBM. The average starting salary for UNC Charlotte graduates is approximately $65,000–$70,000 per year, depending on degree and field of study.
Student Apartments near University of North Carolina at Charlotte
While the university provides on-campus housing, many students choose to live off-campus for added independence and flexibility. The neighborhoods surrounding the university offer a range of housing options, from shared apartments with roommates to modern studios just minutes from campus.
Well-equipped student housing communities near the university come with amenities like study lounges, fitness centers, and convenient access to public transportation. For those seeking safe and affordable off-campus housing, amber provides a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here is the top off-campus housing option near the university!
1. The Drake - Located 5 minutes from the university, this property has luxurious facilities like a study lounge, a fire pit, and much more. This property has a variety of 1B, 2B, 4B, studio, and 3B options!
2. Aspen Heights University City - Located 7 minutes from the university, this property has fun amenities like a sand volleyball court, a game room, and much more. This property has a variety of 4B, 2B, 5B, and 3B options!
3. University Crossings - Located 5 minutes from the university, this property has luxurious facilities like a rooftop lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and much more. This property has a variety of 4B options!
4. Junction 49 - Located 6 minutes from the university, this property has convenient amenities like a massive lounge area, a game room, and much more. This property has a variety of 1B, 2B, 4B, 5B, and 3B options!
5. University Walk - Located 6 minutes from the university, this property has useful facilities like covered patios, an academic success center, and much more. This property has a variety of 4B options!
We hope that you now have an astute idea about everything that you need to know about applying to the university! Make sure that you choose the course you really want to pursue to avoid regrets later on. Choosing a student apartment near your university will help you save time on commuting and allow you to explore your interests more. Enjoy your university experience to the fullest!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte best known for?
UNC Charlotte is best known for its strong programs in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Urban Research, as well as its close ties to industry and innovation in North Carolina.
Who are the most famous University of North Carolina at Charlotte notable alumni?
Notable alumni include Clay Aiken (singer), George Shinn (former NBA team owner), and Ric Elias (CEO of Red Ventures).
What is the cost of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte NC?
UNC Charlotte’s annual tuition is approximately $3,800 for North Carolina residents and $20,000 for out-of-state students, excluding housing and living expenses.
Is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte North Carolina, private or public?
The university is a public research institution and one of the best universities in the US.
Is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte hard to get into?
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte acceptance rate is around 80 percent, meaning the university is moderately selective, making it accessible to a wide range of qualified students.