Cheapest Parks Colleges in North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers the state's most affordable Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies program at just $10,170 net cost, nearly $14,000 less than its closest competitor. This sharp price divide between public and private options reflects North Carolina's commitment to accessible education in a field that serves the state's thriving tourism industry and outdoor recreation sector. With nine programs ranging up to $23,991, graduates typically earn between $21,894 and $29,685 annually.

Programs

$10,170 – $23,991

Net Price Range

$24,835

Avg. Program Earnings

45.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of North Carolina at Greensboro Greensboro, North Carolina	$10,170	$7,593	57.9%	91.9%
2	Shaw University Raleigh, North Carolina	$14,083	$17,176	20.2%	61.0%
3	Chowan University Murfreesboro, North Carolina	$16,189	$27,110	28.5%	86.7%
4	East Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina	$16,514	$7,361	62.1%	92.3%
5	University of Mount Olive Mount Olive, North Carolina	$17,893	$25,950	47.5%	74.6%
6	Catawba College Salisbury, North Carolina	$18,210	$33,400	52.1%	67.1%
7	Mars Hill University Mars Hill, North Carolina	$20,313	$37,270	41.9%	74.2%
8	Brevard College Brevard, North Carolina	$21,376	$31,250	39.0%	39.9%
9	Campbell University Buies Creek, North Carolina	$23,991	$40,410	55.9%	88.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Public universities like UNC Greensboro ($10,170) and East Carolina ($16,514) offer significantly lower net costs than private institutions such as Campbell University ($23,991). The $13,821 gap between cheapest and most expensive reflects North Carolina's strong public funding for state universities.

How do graduation rates vary across different price points?

Higher-cost programs don't guarantee better outcomes, with UNC Greensboro achieving a 57.90% graduation rate despite being the cheapest option. East Carolina University combines affordability ($16,514) with the highest graduation rate at 62.10%, while some expensive private schools struggle with completion rates below 30%.

Where do graduates typically find employment in North Carolina?

The state's tourism industry, state parks system, and growing healthcare sector create demand for recreation professionals. University of Mount Olive graduates earn the highest median salary at $29,685, while the Research Triangle and Charlotte markets offer additional opportunities in corporate wellness programs.

More Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Rankings

Best Value Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies in North Carolina Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Under $20,000 in North Carolina

All Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Programs Best Colleges in North Carolina Best Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies in North Carolina

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