Carolina University
The Vibe Check
Carolina University offers an intimate, close-knit community feel where students are not just numbers but familiar faces in a small urban campus setting. The atmosphere is supportive and faith-based, fostering a sense of belonging and personal connection among a diverse student body. It feels like a place where you can easily build strong relationships with peers and professors.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The university provides a foundational education with notable strengths in Business, Theology, and Education, emphasizing practical career preparation over high-level research. Teaching quality is characterized by accessible faculty who offer personalized attention in small class sizes. While research opportunities may be more limited compared to larger institutions, the focus remains on hands-on learning and mentorship.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Winston-Salem
Students enjoy Winston-Salem's vibrant arts and culture scene, including the Innovation Quarter and Old Salem's historic district. For fun, you can explore local breweries, attend festivals, or take short trips to nearby mountains and lakes. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and southern charm without the overwhelming size of a major metropolis.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($32,864):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban area, so standard city precautions are advised, but the university maintains a secure environment with campus safety measures. Winston-Salem is generally considered a safe and growing city, though students should remain aware of their surroundings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable flat tuition rate for all students regardless of residency
- ✓ Small class sizes and personalized attention from accessible faculty
- ✓ Strong sense of community and faith-based support system
- ✓ Diverse academic programs in high-demand fields like Business and Criminal Justice
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate of 30.1% and retention rate of 56.4% raise concerns about student persistence
- ✗ Modest 10-year median earnings of $32,864 may indicate a slower career ROI
- ✗ Limited research opportunities and resources compared to larger universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Carolina University is known for its faith-based education, small class sizes, and strong programs in Business, Theology, and Criminal Justice. It emphasizes a supportive community and practical career preparation in an urban setting. The university's mission integrates Christian values with academic learning, appealing to students seeking a values-oriented education.
Yes, with a 34% acceptance rate, Carolina University is moderately selective, meaning applicants need a solid academic profile. The average admitted student likely has a competitive GPA and test scores, though holistic review includes essays and recommendations. This rate is lower than many regional peers, so strong preparation is key for admission.
Campus life is intimate and community-focused, with a small enrollment of 424 students fostering close relationships. Students engage in faith-based activities, student organizations, and urban exploration in Winston-Salem, balancing study with social events. The vibe is supportive and personal, ideal for those who thrive in a tight-knit environment rather than a large party scene.
The value depends on your career goals; at $16,000 tuition, it's an affordable private option, but the 10-year median earnings of $32,864 suggest moderate ROI. For fields like Business or Education, it can be worthwhile if paired with the high Pell Grant support (45.6%). Weigh the low cost against graduation outcomes to determine if it aligns with your financial and professional plans.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 449
- In-State Tuition $16,000
- Zip Code 27101
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a flat tuition rate of $16,000 and a net price of $18,866, the cost is relatively affordable compared to many private universities. However, the 10-year median earnings of $32,864 suggest a modest return on investment, requiring careful consideration of your chosen major's earning potential. The high Pell Grant rate indicates strong financial aid support for low-income students, enhancing accessibility.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.