Affordable Degree Guide

Affordable Online Degree Programs in North Carolina

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North Carolina is defined by its diverse geography, spanning from the Atlantic coast to the Appalachian Mountains. As one of the nation’s fastest-growing states, its population has surpassed 11 million. 

This vibrant state has an economy that has successfully blended its traditional roots in manufacturing and agriculture with modern innovation.

North Carolina is a major hub for finance, technology, and research, particularly in the renowned “Research Triangle” region (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill). 

This guide is designed to help you explore the affordable online degree programs available, giving you the flexibility to earn a quality education and prepare for a rewarding career in North Carolina’s dynamic job market.

In this guide

Tuition and Fee Overview in North Carolina

The University of North Carolina (UNC) System is a network of 16 universities and a key driver of the state’s educational landscape.

Institutions like UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State are nationally recognized, and many offer robust online programs.

Community Colleges & Technical Colleges

The lowest tuition is offered at 17 Community Colleges for just $4,560. The average cost across 26 schools is $4,686, while the highest tuition is $28,830 at Campbell University.

Associate degree programs in North Carolina

  1. Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College

    Asheville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 26
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Blue Ridge Community College

    Flat Rock, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 21
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Carteret Community College

    Morehead City, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Coastal Carolina Community College

    Jacksonville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Craven Community College

    New Bern, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Davidson-Davie Community College

    Thomasville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Fayetteville Technical Community College

    Fayetteville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Forsyth Technical Community College

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Gaston College

    Dallas, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Guilford Technical Community College

    Jamestown, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Haywood Community College

    Clyde, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Randolph Community College

    Asheboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Sampson Community College

    Clinton, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Surry Community College

    Dobson, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Vance-Granville Community College

    Henderson, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Wayne Community College

    Goldsboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Wilson Community College

    Wilson, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,080
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Cape Fear Community College

    Wilmington, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,348
    Credits: 60-61
    Number of degree programs: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  19. Central Piedmont Community College

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,348
    Credits: 60-61
    Number of degree programs: 26
    Learn more: Program details

  20. College of The Albemarle

    Elizabeth City, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,348
    Credits: 60-61
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  21. Wake Tech

    Raleigh, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $16,348
    Credits: 60-61
    Number of degree programs: 27
    Learn more: Program details

  22. Piedmont Community College

    Roxboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $19,296
    Credits: 60-72
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  23. Stanly Community College

    Albemarle, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $4,560 - $20,368
    Credits: 64-76
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  24. Southwestern Community College

    Sylva, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $86 in-state | $278 out-of-state)
    Total cost per credit: $5,160 - $16,680
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  25. Montreat College

    Montreat, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $445
    Total cost per credit: $26,700
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  26. Campbell University

    Buies Creek, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $465
    Total cost per credit: $28,830
    Credits: 62
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

Public and Private Institutions

The most affordable Bachelor’s degree can be found at Elizabeth City State University for $25,000. The average tuition for a Bachelor’s degree across 28 schools is $73,594, with Mars Hill University having the highest cost at a notable $161,658.

Bachelor’s degree programs in North Carolina

  1. Elizabeth City State University

    Elizabeth City, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $42 in-state | $208 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $5,000 in-state | $25,000 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Pfeiffer University

    Misenheimer, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $189 - $250
    Total tuition per credit: $9,072 - $30,000
    Credits: 48-120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Western Carolina University

    Cullowhee, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $91 in-state | $258 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $10,963 in-state | $30,962 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Fayetteville State University

    Fayetteville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $92 in-state | $258 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,000 in-state | $31,001 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  5. University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Pembroke, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $108 in-state | $275 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $12,985 in-state | $32,984 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $305
    Total tuition per credit: $39,004
    Credits: 128
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Belmont Abbey College

    Belmont, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $349
    Total tuition per credit: $41,880
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Lees-McRae College

    Banner Elk, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $390
    Total tuition per credit: $46,800
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Lenoir-Rhyne University

    Hickory, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $400
    Total tuition per credit: $48,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Montreat College

    Montreat, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $445
    Total tuition per credit: $53,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  11. North Carolina Wesleyan University

    Rocky Mount, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $445
    Total tuition per credit: $53,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Methodist University

    Fayetteville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $435
    Total tuition per credit: $53,940
    Credits: 124
    Number of degree programs: 20
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Campbell University

    Buies Creek, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $465
    Total tuition per credit: $57,660
    Credits: 124
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Johnson & Wales University—Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $495
    Total tuition per credit: $59,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 23
    Learn more: Program details

  15. North Carolina A&T State University

    Greensboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $120 in-state | $588
    Total tuition per credit: $14,400 in-state | $70,560 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

    Wake Forest, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $572
    Total tuition per credit: $72,644
    Credits: 127
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  17. University of North Carolina Wilmington

    Wilmington, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $211 in-state | $914 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,402 in-state | $76,798 out-of-state
    Credits: 54-84
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Winston-Salem State University

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $162 in-state | $631 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $20,788 in-state | $80,823 out-of-state
    Credits: 128
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  19. North Carolina Central University

    Durham, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $188 in-state | $731 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $22,500 in-state | $87,680 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  20. Gardner-Webb University

    Boiling Springs, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $355 - $805
    Total tuition per credit: $42,600 - $96,600
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  21. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $159 in-state | $834 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $19,060 in-state | $100,090 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  22. Johnson C. Smith University

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $838
    Total tuition per credit: $102,236
    Credits: 122
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  23. University of Mount Olive

    Mount Olive, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $840
    Total tuition per credit: $100,800 - $105,840
    Credits: 126
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  24. East Carolina University

    Greenville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $205 in-state | $883 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $26,213 in-state | $113,024 out-of-state
    Credits: 128
    Number of degree programs: 32
    Learn more: Program details

  25. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Greensboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $236 in-state | $943 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $28,340 in-state | $113,210 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 34
    Learn more: Program details

  26. Appalachian State University

    Boone, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $205 in-state | $967 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $24,575 in-state | $116,024 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  27. North Carolina State University

    Raleigh, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $293 in-state | $1,333 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $35,174 in-state | $160,000 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  28. Mars Hill University

    Mars Hill, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,283
    Total tuition per credit: $153,960 - $161,658
    Credits: 120-126
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

The public system is generally a more affordable option for in-state residents, especially with initiatives like the NC Promise Tuition Plan, which drastically reduces tuition at three UNC campuses.

North Carolina is also home to numerous private, nonprofit institutions such as Duke University and Wake Forest University. These schools often offer a more intimate learning environment and unique programs. While their tuition is higher, they frequently provide generous financial aid and scholarships to attract.

At the Master’s degree level, the lowest tuition is $14,880 at Mars Hill University. The average cost for a Master’s program is $42,332 across 28 schools, with the highest tuition being $112,860 at Duke University.

Master’s degree programs in South Carolina

  1. Mars Hill University

    Mars Hill, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $496
    Total tuition per credit: $14,880
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Campbell University

    Buies Creek, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $480
    Total tuition per credit: $14,400 - $16,320
    Credits: 34
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Lees-McRae College

    Banner Elk, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550
    Total tuition per credit: $16,500
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Montreat College

    Montreat, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $630
    Total tuition per credit: $18,900
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

    Wake Forest, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $332 - $342
    Total tuition per credit: $12,948 - $19,494
    Credits: 39-57
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  6. North Carolina Wesleyan University

    Rocky Mount, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550
    Total tuition per credit: $16,500 - $23,100
    Credits: 30-42
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Belmont Abbey College

    Belmont, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $600 - $795
    Total tuition per credit: $20,850 - $24,645
    Credits: 30-37
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Gardner-Webb University

    Boiling Springs, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $615 - $685
    Total tuition per credit: $18,450 - $24,660
    Credits: 30-36
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Barton College

    Wilson, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $358 - $625
    Total tuition per credit: $10,740 - $26,250
    Credits: 30-42
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  10. North Carolina A&T State University

    Greensboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $250 in-state | $877 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $7,500 in-state | $26,310 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Winston-Salem State University

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $276 in-state | $828 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $9,938 in-state | $32,291 out-of-state
    Credits: 36-39
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Methodist University

    Fayetteville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $545
    Total tuition per credit: $19,620 - $32,700
    Credits: 36-60
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Johnson & Wales University—Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $842
    Total tuition per credit: $30,312 - $35,364
    Credits: 36-42
    Number of degree programs: 21
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Elizabeth City State University

    Elizabeth City, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $188 in-state | $913 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $7,501 in-state | $36,527 out-of-state
    Credits: 40
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  15. University of Mount Olive

    Mount Olive, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $610
    Total tuition per credit: $20,130 - $36,600
    Credits: 33-60
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Western Carolina University

    Cullowhee, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330 in-state | $975 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $9,895 - $$39,988
    Credits: 30-41
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  17. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $17,883 in-state | $1,146 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $8,068 in-state | $43,546 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-38
    Number of degree programs: 24
    Learn more: Program details

  18. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

    Wilmington, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $328 in-state | $1,222 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $10,821 in-state | $43,977 out-of-state
    Credits: 33-36
    Number of degree programs: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  19. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Greensboro, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $351 in-state | $1,201 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $10,516 in-state | $54,067 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-45
    Number of degree programs: 49
    Learn more: Program details

  20. Pfeiffer University

    Misenheimer, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $400 - $902
    Total tuition per credit: $12,000 - $56,817
    Credits: 30-63
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  21. Wake Forest University

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,298
    Total tuition per credit: $38,940 - $58,410
    Credits: 30-45
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  22. Appalachian State University

    Boone, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $337 - $1,291
    Total tuition per credit: $11,113 in-state | $59,373 out-of-state
    Credits: 33-46
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  23. East Carolina University

    Greenville, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $290 in-state | $1,020 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $8,687 in-state | $61,203 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-60
    Number of degree programs: 54
    Learn more: Program details

  24. North Carolina Central University

    Durham, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $298 in-state | $1,037 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $17,857 in-state | $62,217 out-of-state
    Credits: 36-60
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  25. North Carolina State University

    Raleigh, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $17,883 in-state | $64,056 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $596 in-state | $1,779 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-36
    Number of degree programs: 53
    Learn more: Program details

  26. University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Pembroke, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $313 in-state | $1,038 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $15,630 in-state | $64,362 out-of-state
    Credits: 50-62
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  27. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Chapel Hill, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $627 in-state | $1,664 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $18,823 in-state | $79,868 out-of-state
    Credits: 30-48
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  28. Duke University

    Durham, North Carolina
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $3,762
    Total tuition per credit: $112,860
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

Cost of Attendance Beyond Tuition in North Carolina

An online degree in North Carolina offers significant cost savings, especially by eliminating the need for on-campus housing.

  • Room & Board: The cost of living varies dramatically across North Carolina. Major metro areas like Raleigh and Charlotte have higher housing costs, but these expenses are a non-factor for most online students.
  • Books & Supplies: While online students save on housing, they still need to budget for books, course materials, and technology.
  • Transportation: Online learners avoid the high cost of daily commuting. For any required on-campus visits or residencies, you’ll need to budget for intra-state travel, which is generally more manageable than in other states.
  • Pell Grant Eligibility: Your eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant is based on your financial need as determined by the FAFSA. The cost of attendance at your chosen school and your enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time) are key factors in your award amount.

Notable Statewide Educational Initiatives

North Carolina has several key initiatives aimed at making education more accessible and relevant:

  1. NC Promise Tuition Plan – Offers in-state tuition of $500 per semester at select UNC campuses, making college more affordable without additional applications.
  2. Fixed Tuition Program – Guarantees in-state undergraduates the same tuition rate for eight consecutive semesters across UNC System schools.
  3. Next NC Scholarship – Provides $3,000–$5,000 annually to eligible students from households earning under $80,000 to cover college costs.
  4. GEAR UP North Carolina – Supports college readiness for students in low-income districts through academic preparation and FAFSA assistance.
  5. Open Education North Carolina (OENC) – Reduces textbook costs through free, open-access digital course materials.
  6. BOOST Program (Community Colleges) – Accelerates training in high-demand career fields through workforce-aligned credentials.
  7. UNC Student Aid Reform Group – Focuses on improving state grants like the Education Lottery Scholarship and need-based aid.
  8. NC Education Futures Initiative (NCEFI) – Uses data to guide statewide education policy and improve student outcomes.

State-Funded Grants & Scholarships in North Carolina

North Carolina provides various grants and scholarships to help make college affordable:

Next NC Scholarship: This new program, beginning with the 2024-25 academic year, combines the Federal Pell Grant with state-funded financial aid to provide at least $3,000 for full-time enrollment at community colleges and at least $5,000 at public universities for students from households with an Adjusted Gross Income of $80,000 or less.

The College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) is an excellent resource for finding state-specific scholarships and grants. Their website provides information on various programs, including the North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship and the UNC Need-Based Grant.

Deadlines: To be considered for most state and federal aid, it is crucial to complete the FAFSA. The priority deadline is typically in the early spring, so be sure to submit your application on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most affordable online degree programs in North Carolina?

North Carolina offers several affordable online degree options, especially through public institutions in the UNC System. Schools participating in the NC Promise Tuition Plan—such as Western Carolina University, Elizabeth City State University, and UNC Pembroke—offer in-state tuition as low as $500 per semester.

How does the NC Promise Tuition Plan make college more affordable?

The NC Promise Tuition Plan significantly reduces tuition costs by offering $500 per semester for in-state students and $2,500 for out-of-state students at select UNC schools. This initiative helps make high-quality online education more accessible and budget-friendly for North Carolinians.

What financial aid is available for online students in North Carolina?

Online students in North Carolina may qualify for state and federal financial aid, including the Next NC Scholarship, Pell Grants, UNC Need-Based Grants, and the North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship. Students must complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility and access these funding opportunities.

Do online students in North Carolina pay for room and board?

No, most online students in North Carolina do not incur room and board expenses, which significantly lowers the total cost of attendance. However, they should still budget for books, supplies, and occasional transportation if in-person residencies or exams are required.

What statewide initiatives support online learning in North Carolina?

North Carolina supports online learners through several initiatives, such as Open Education North Carolina (OENC) for free digital textbooks, BOOST for workforce training at community colleges, and GEAR UP NC for improving college readiness among low-income students.