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University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC | Public | University

University of North Carolina at Greensboro has an acceptance rate of 88.5%, annual tuition of $7,661, average net price of $10,965, and a national rank of #509 (Grade B+), with a 56.3% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 14,062 undergraduates, and median earnings of $51,594 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public university in Greensboro, NC. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 18:1 student-faculty ratio, and 78.9% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 101.6%, roughly 51.7 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B+
Ranking
#509 of 1,947
How We Rank Schools Lower tuitionSolid ROI potentialPublic school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#509 of 1,947 (Top 26.1%)
Tuition
$7,661
Net Price
$10,965
4-Year Tuition
$30,644
Acceptance Rate
88.5%
Transfer Rate
26.7%
Student Population
14,062
Student-Faculty
18:1
Grad Rate (150% time)
56.3%
Grad Rate (8-year)
58.9%
Retention Rate
78.9%
4-Yr Earnings
$51,594
ROI
101.6%

Who is University of North Carolina at Greensboro Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Career maximizers chasing high ROI
Families tracking affordability closely
First-gen or Pell-eligible support

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#509 of 1,947
Top 26.1% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
73.9 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
3.70 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B
#786 of 1,947
Affordability
A-
#209 of 1,947
Support
B-
#1,244 of 1,947
Career Outcomes
B-
#1,247 of 1,947

University of North Carolina at Greensboro graduates 56.3% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 58.9% and keeps 78.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A- compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$7,305-$19,580 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Likely
56.3% graduate within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings). The College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 58.9%. 38.6% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
86.8% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $51,594. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use University of North Carolina at Greensboro's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$85,492
$21,373 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$50,769
$10,965 × 4.6 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.6 years | 4-Year Rate: 38.6% | 6-Year Rate: 56.3% | 8-Year Rate: 58.9%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 38.6% and six-year completion is 56.3%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$21,373
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$10,965
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

Cost of Undergraduate Attendance

Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.

View cost of attendance line items
Costs to Consider Price
Tuition and Fees $7,661
Books and Supplies $850
On-Campus Room and Board $10,688
On-Campus Other Expenses $3,386
Total On-Campus Cost $21,373

Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.

Students Receiving Aid

Pell Grant
50.2%
Federal Loan
0.0%

Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.

EDsmart Insight: About 50.2% of University of North Carolina at Greensboro students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.

$0 - $30,000
$7,305
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$8,082
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$11,605
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$16,979
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$19,580
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $7,305 to $19,580 depending on family income. Use University of North Carolina at Greensboro's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$32,872
$30K-$48K families
~$36,369
$48K-$75K families
~$52,222
$75K-$110K families
~$76,406
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $16,979/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $19,580/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
101.6%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $51,594
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $48,160
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.6 years
  • Average Student Debt $22,858
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 54.6%
  • Employment Rate 86.8%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for University of North Carolina at Greensboro graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.

Graduates earn a median of $51,594 four years after graduation — roughly 15% below the national median.
Payback Period
0.98 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

University of North Carolina at Greensboro vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of North Carolina at Greensboro's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of North Carolina at Greensboro's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: University of North Carolina at Greensboro graduates report median earnings of $51,594 four years after graduation, -15% above the national median. The 101.6% ROI indicates solid long-term value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
88.5%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 590-685
  • SAT Math 560-670
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 22-27
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 14,062
  • Full-Time Students 83.8%
  • Part-Time Students 16.2%
  • Retention Rate 78.9%
  • Grad Rate (150% time) 56.3%
  • Grad Rate (8-year) 58.9%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 18:1

How to Get Into University of North Carolina at Greensboro

1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of North Carolina at Greensboro requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.

2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.

3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 88.5%, University of North Carolina at Greensboro is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.

4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.

Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.

EDsmart Insight: With a 88.5% acceptance rate, University of North Carolina at Greensboro is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1150 and 1355 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of North Carolina at Greensboro undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Communication and Media Studies, and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing draw the most students.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 13.8%
  • Communication and Media Studies 5.6%
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 5.1%
  • Psychology, General 4.9%
  • Biology, General 4.2%
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 4.0%
See more majors
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 3.9%
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Ser 3.8%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)

  • 1. Computer Science $104,755
  • 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $79,183
  • 3. Finance and Financial Management Services $67,570
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. International Business $64,373
  • 5. Accounting and Related Services $60,647
  • 6. Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications $60,500
  • 7. Economics $59,622
  • 8. Business Administration, Management and Operations $55,523
  • 9. Mathematics $53,880
  • 10. Apparel and Textiles $53,467

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $173,996
  • 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $149,239
  • 3. Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications (Master's Degree) $104,490
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $102,221
  • 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $93,867
  • 6. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $86,988
  • 7. Education, General (Doctoral Degree) $81,604
  • 8. Curriculum and Instruction (Doctoral Degree) $72,325
  • 9. Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Doctoral Degree) $71,670
  • 10. Public Health (Master's Degree) $66,853

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $104,755—96% more than Apparel and Textiles ($53,467). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $173,996 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 206 graduates)
  • Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 182 graduates)
  • Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 155 graduates)
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 146 graduates)
  • Sociology (Bachelor's Degree, 119 graduates)

What This School Offers Online, at a Glance

College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.

Online Bachelor's Degrees (39 programs)▼
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Psychology, General
  • Biology, General
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Sociology
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Social Work
  • Political Science and Government
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Apparel and Textiles
  • Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
  • Nutrition Sciences
  • History
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Computer Science
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • Music
  • Anthropology
  • International Business
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Dance
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Business/Managerial Economics
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Economics
  • Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Physics
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Marketing
Online Master's Degrees (33 programs)▼
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • Music
  • Social Work
  • Public Health
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Computer Science
  • History
  • Public Administration
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Sociology
  • Psychology, General
  • Genetics
  • Biology, General
  • Nutrition Sciences
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
  • Dance
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Interior Architecture
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Political Science and Government
  • Applied Statistics
Online Doctoral Degrees (23 programs)▼
  • Music
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Psychology, General
  • Physical Sciences, Other
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Nutrition Sciences
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Public Health
  • History
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Geography and Cartography
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Management Information Systems and Services
  • Business/Managerial Economics
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Apparel and Textiles
  • Social Work
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (14 programs)▼
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Music
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Sociology
  • History
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Political Science and Government
  • Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Public Health
  • Nutrition Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Sustainability Studies

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 14,062
  • Full-Time Students 83.8%
  • Part-Time Students 16.2%
  • Male Students 33.6%
  • Female Students 66.4%
  • Caucasian 37.8%
  • Asian 5.8%
  • Hispanic 17.5%
  • Black 30.7%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 50.2%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of North Carolina at Greensboro's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of University of North Carolina at Greensboro's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does University of North Carolina at Greensboro support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
54.7%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
57.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.9 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of North Carolina at Greensboro, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: University of North Carolina at Greensboro has a diverse student body, with 37.8% identifying as White. Women make up 66.4% of undergraduates. 50.2% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does University of North Carolina at Greensboro support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
54.7%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
57.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.9 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of North Carolina at Greensboro, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

University of North Carolina at Greensboro serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #509 nationally with a 101.6% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.

At $10,965 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $51,594 median earnings. The 56.3% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 78.9% retention suggests adequate student support.

University Value: University of North Carolina at Greensboro's Strengths

Ranked #509 with a B+ grade, University of North Carolina at Greensboro prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.

Primary Strengths: Universitys like University of North Carolina at Greensboro excel at providing affordable education ($10,965 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.

Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.

Honest Assessment: University of North Carolina at Greensboro's 78.9% retention and 56.3% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($51,594 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.

Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, University of North Carolina at Greensboro's 101.6% ROI and $10,965 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.

Key Takeaways

  • 56.3% graduation rate sits 6.2 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 78.9% first-year retention is 2.1 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 101.6% return on investment is 51.7 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $51,594 run about 15% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $10,965 is roughly $9,114 lower than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 18:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 78.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 86.8% employment rate within three years sits 18.6 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a public university in Greensboro, NC, secures a B+ grade in our latest review. It appears at #509 in EDsmart's national list Completion earns B, Support B-, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability A-.

Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.

Student momentum is strong: 78.9% retention, 56.3% graduation within 150% of normal time, and 58.9% earning an award within eight years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 101.6%, offering a quick value checkpoint.

Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $10,965 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $21,373.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $10,408 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $22,858 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 50.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.

Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.

EDsmart Career Snapshot

Graduates report median earnings of about $51,594 four years after graduation. That sits about 15% below the national median.

Employment outcomes report about 86.8% of alumni working within three years.

The ROI comes in near 101.6%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

88.5% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.

The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.

Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the University of North Carolina at Greensboro admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.

Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.

EDsmart Verdict
3.70 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

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Nearby Schools

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Other North Carolina campuses you might consider

Meredith College
Raleigh, NC
B+ #510 of 1,947
Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary
Charlotte, NC
B+ #504 of 1,947
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
B+ #479 of 1,947
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
B+ #559 of 1,947

Frequently Asked Questions

What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro's acceptance rate?

University of North Carolina at Greensboro's acceptance rate is 88.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does University of North Carolina at Greensboro cost?

At University of North Carolina at Greensboro, listed tuition and fees are $7,661 per year, and the average net price after aid is $10,965. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro's ranking?

University of North Carolina at Greensboro ranks #509 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro's graduation rate?

At University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 56.3% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 58.9%, and first-year retention is 78.9%.

What are University of North Carolina at Greensboro's job outcomes?

Graduates of University of North Carolina at Greensboro report median earnings of $51,594 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro's student population?

University of North Carolina at Greensboro enrolls about 14,062 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
  • Endowment$390.8M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate26.7%

Data Source & Methodology ▼