Skip to main content

Cheapest Public Administration Colleges in North Carolina

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Public Administration programs in North Carolina span a remarkable cost spectrum, from Fayetteville State University's $7,360 net price to Elon University's $41,048. The state's government sector offers solid career prospects, with graduates earning around $52,107 annually. North Carolina's Research Triangle and state capital provide ample internship and job opportunities in public service. Six of the seven programs accept over 80% of applicants, making admission relatively accessible.
7
Programs
$7,360 – $41,048
Net Price Range
$52,107
Avg. Program Earnings
48.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Public Administration Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,360 $3,969 35.2% 81.2%
2 $12,579 $4,532 59.1% 84.8%
3 $14,083 $17,176 20.2% 61.0%
4 $15,028 $6,542 46.0% 84.4%
5 $20,313 $37,270 41.9% 74.2%
6 $23,991 $40,410 55.9% 88.6%
7 $41,048 $44,536 83.0% 74.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Public institutions like Fayetteville State ($7,360) and Western Carolina ($12,579) offer significantly lower net costs than private schools. Elon University costs nearly six times more at $41,048, though it achieves an 83% graduation rate compared to 35% at Fayetteville State.

How do graduation rates vary among these affordable options?

Western Carolina leads public options with a 59% graduation rate, while Fayetteville State graduates only 35% of students despite having the lowest cost. Private schools generally perform better, with Campbell University reaching 56% and Elon achieving 83%.

Does the debt load justify the career outcomes for Public Administration majors?

Western Carolina graduates carry $17,234 in debt while earning $52,107 annually, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio. North Carolina's government jobs in Raleigh and growing public sector needs provide stable employment prospects for program graduates.

More Public Administration Rankings

Best Value Public Administration in North Carolina Public Administration Under $20,000 in North Carolina

Related

All Public Administration Programs Best Colleges in North Carolina Best Public Administration in North Carolina

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