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Best Value Registered Nursing Colleges in North Carolina

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

North Carolina's nursing programs reveal a striking cost-to-earnings advantage, with Fayetteville State University delivering the best value at just $7,360 net cost while graduates earn $61,814 annually. The state's 15 featured programs span from $7,360 to $25,765 in net costs, yet earnings remain remarkably consistent between $53,984 and $71,315. This stability reflects North Carolina's strong healthcare infrastructure, anchored by major medical centers in Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, and Asheville that actively recruit nursing professionals across all specialties. The Research Triangle's biotech corridor particularly values nurses with clinical research backgrounds, while Charlotte's banking sector drives demand for healthcare administration roles. Public universities dominate the value market, with eight of the top 10 most affordable options being state schools. UNC Chapel Hill stands out with a 92.1% graduation rate despite moderate costs, while Chamberlain University commands the highest earnings at $71,315 but requires the steepest investment at $21,664 net cost.
31
Programs
$7,360 – $34,454
Net Price Range
$60,133
Avg. Program Earnings
54.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

31 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,360 $61,814 $3,969 35.2% 81.2%
2 $10,170 $58,823 $7,593 57.9% 91.9%
3 $9,918 $57,149 $3,571 44.5% 89.7%
4 $10,980 $59,042 $6,748 55.3% 56.4%
5 $13,393 $62,067 $6,735 48.6% 73.4%
6 $12,983 $59,534 $8,989 92.1% 17.1%
7 $12,579 $57,318 $4,532 59.1% 84.8%
8 $15,028 $63,705 $6,542 46.0% 84.4%
9 $14,745 $58,307 $7,214 67.7% 79.6%
10 $17,893 $66,821 $25,950 47.5% 74.6%
11 $17,271 $63,997 $16,070 45.5% 44.9%
12 $16,514 $60,064 $7,361 62.1% 92.3%
13 $16,487 $56,415 $7,541 73.1% 83.1%
14 $21,664 $71,315 $19,686 50.0%
15 $19,472 $59,253 $7,317 70.7% 68.8%
16 $21,371 $56,867 $40,196 46.8% 86.2%
17 $23,665 $59,781 $35,600 51.5% 94.6%
18 $25,765 $63,935 $31,140 44.2% 61.3%
19 $24,137 $59,640 $33,450 61.7% 75.0%
20 $21,953 $53,984 $33,930 42.6% 69.1%
21 $27,634 $66,883 $20,650
22 $24,978 $56,234 $39,664 40.1% 75.7%
23 $27,786 $58,152 $43,285 65.9% 71.3%
24 $23,393 $48,265 $30,900 51.0% 82.9%
25 $34,454 $63,970 $65,805 95.8% 6.4%
26 $21,728 $33,150 44.3% 63.2%
27 $23,613 $19,500 46.4% 97.2%
28 $23,991 $40,410 55.9% 88.6%
29 $18,210 $33,400 52.1% 67.1%
30 $18,165 $35,536 40.4% 68.4%
31 $20,313 $37,270 41.9% 74.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Fayetteville State University such strong value for nursing students?

Fayetteville State delivers the lowest net cost at $7,360 while maintaining strong graduate earnings of $61,814, creating an outstanding return on investment. The university's 81.24% acceptance rate makes admission accessible, though the 35.2% graduation rate suggests students need strong academic preparation. Located in a military-friendly community, the program benefits from partnerships with local healthcare facilities and veteran-oriented medical services.

How do public university nursing costs compare to private options in North Carolina?

Public universities offer dramatically lower costs, with the top five most affordable programs all being state schools ranging from $7,360 to $13,393 net cost. Private institutions like Chamberlain University charge $21,664, nearly three times more than Fayetteville State. However, Chamberlain graduates earn the highest salaries at $71,315, while public school graduates typically earn between $56,415 and $63,705 annually.

Does UNC Chapel Hill justify its selective 17.11% acceptance rate for nursing?

UNC Chapel Hill's nursing program produces strong outcomes with a 92.1% graduation rate, far above the state average of 35-73% among other programs. Despite moderate net costs of $12,983, graduates earn $59,534 annually with relatively low debt of $19,802. The program's selectivity ensures students receive intensive clinical training at one of the state's premier academic medical centers.

Where do nursing graduates find the highest-paying opportunities in North Carolina?

Chamberlain University graduates command the highest salaries at $71,315, followed by University of Mount Olive at $66,821 and North Carolina Central University at $63,705. Charlotte's banking sector and medical facilities drive higher compensation, while the Research Triangle's biotech companies value specialized nursing roles. Rural programs like UNC Pembroke typically see lower starting salaries around $57,149 but offer lower living costs.

What graduation rate should nursing students expect across North Carolina programs?

Graduation rates vary dramatically from 35.2% at Fayetteville State to 92.1% at UNC Chapel Hill, reflecting different admission standards and student support systems. Most programs fall between 45-70%, with Appalachian State achieving 73.1% and UNC Charlotte reaching 67.7%. Students considering programs with lower graduation rates should evaluate academic support services and clinical placement opportunities carefully.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.