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Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in North Carolina

10 schools in North Carolina. See our methodology.

North Carolina A&T State University stands out among the state's 10 HBCUs with a 55.3% graduation rate and nearly 12,000 students, making it both the largest and most successful at degree completion. The earnings picture tells an interesting story across these institutions, with graduates earning between $32,600 and $45,344 annually. Winston-Salem State leads in graduate earnings at $45,344, while also maintaining a solid 48.6% graduation rate. Cost varies dramatically, from Elizabeth City State's remarkably affordable $7,237 net price to Bennett College's $22,858. These schools connect directly to North Carolina's economic engines. Charlotte's banking sector provides natural opportunities for Johnson C Smith graduates, while the Research Triangle's tech boom creates pathways for Durham-based North Carolina Central students. State support through programs like the NC Need-Based Scholarship helps make these institutions accessible. Acceptance rates range from Johnson C Smith's selective 25.3% to North Carolina Central's open 84.4%, offering options for students across academic backgrounds. The smallest institution, Bennett College, enrolls just 191 students as a historically Black women's college, while the largest, NC A&T, serves nearly 12,000 across its full programs.
10
Schools
$14,435
Avg. Net Price
$39,500
Avg. Earnings
36.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in North Carolina

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Median Earnings
1 11,925 $10,980 55.3% $44,440
2 4,244 $13,393 48.6% $45,344
3 1,047 $20,011 34.1% $42,680
4 1,863 $7,237 48.1% $40,026
5 5,400 $15,028 46.0% $42,968
6 5,493 $7,360 35.2% $40,144
7 766 $17,740 33.2% $35,730
8 191 $22,858 20.6% $36,654
9 798 $15,662 27.1% $32,600
10 839 $14,083 20.2% $34,409

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes North Carolina A&T State University the standout HBCU in the state?

NC A&T combines the highest graduation rate at 55.3% with the largest enrollment of 11,925 students. Graduates earn $44,440 annually on average, and the school maintains a balanced 56.4% acceptance rate, making it both accessible and successful at degree completion.

How affordable are North Carolina's HBCUs compared to other college options?

Net prices range from $7,237 at Elizabeth City State to $22,858 at Bennett College. Seven of the 10 schools cost under $16,000 annually. The NC Need-Based Scholarship program provides additional support for qualifying students.

Where do HBCU graduates typically find employment in North Carolina?

Graduates connect to major state industries including Charlotte's banking sector, the Research Triangle's technology companies, and the state's growing healthcare system. Average earnings range from $32,600 to $45,344, with Winston-Salem State graduates earning the highest salaries.

Is there significant variation in selectivity among North Carolina HBCUs?

Acceptance rates span from Johnson C Smith's competitive 25.3% to North Carolina Central's open 84.4%. This wide range means students can find appropriate matches regardless of academic preparation, with most schools accepting over 60% of applicants.

Does enrollment size affect graduation success at these institutions?

The data shows mixed results. Large NC A&T achieves 55.3% graduation rates with 11,925 students, while small Bennett College has 20.6% with just 191 students. Mid-sized Winston-Salem State performs well at 48.6% with 4,244 enrolled.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.