Looking to relocate to North Carolina’s Triangle? As the cultural and financial center of the state, this area is also home to some of its best universities. If you’re planning for your child’s future, it’s important to know what the state can offer them. Here’s a quick guide to the Triangle’s institutions of higher learning.
Public Universities
North Carolina’s public university system is widely recognized; it operates three major universities in the Triangle. All offer significantly discounted tuition for state residents.
The most prominent of these is the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Sometimes called a public ivy, UNC’s academics – and admission requirements – are top notch. Its public health, journalism, public policy, and business programs are highly regarded, and its pharmacy program is ranked number one in the United States. It also has a slightly popular basketball team.
Known for its miles upon miles of brown bricks, Raleigh’s North Carolina State University is one of the best engineering schools in North Carolina. Its agricultural programs are also top notch, taking advantage of the Triangle’s close proximity to rural areas. This is especially relevant given the nearby Research Triangle Park, whose science companies often seek out NCSU graduates.
North Carolina Central University is a historically black college and Durham’s only public university. It is best known for its law school, ranked 16th in the nation. Considering the low in-state tuition, such a ranking represents tremendous value! The hospitality and tourism, history, and jazz studies program are also noteworthy.
Private Universities
The Triangle has many private universities; we can’t possibly cover them all here!
Arguably one of the greatest universities in the world, Duke University calls Durham home. Virtually every program at the school is among the best you can get, and both tuition and academic standards are very high (though the school does ensure all admitted students can pay tuition.) Duke’s athletic programs are also highly ranked, and the school’s basketball rivalry with UNC Chapel Hill is a cornerstone of Carolina culture.
For a small college experience, William Peace University in Raleigh offers a compelling choice with a student body of just over 1,000. Formerly an exclusively women’s university, Peace began admitting men in 2012. The school places a strong emphasis on a traditional liberal arts education, with Communications being the most popular major.
For more information on higher learning in the Triangle, check out US News and World Report’s rankings of NC universities