University of North Carolina Wilmington
The Vibe Check
UNC Wilmington feels like a coastal oasis where academics meet relaxation, with a campus that blends modern facilities and lush green spaces just minutes from the beach. The atmosphere is collaborative and laid-back, fostering a close-knit community where students are passionate about both their studies and the natural beauty surrounding them.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UNCW is renowned for its strengths in health professions, business, and marine biology, supported by cutting-edge research opportunities through its Center for Marine Science and coastal studies programs. The university emphasizes experiential learning with small class sizes and dedicated faculty, ensuring high-quality teaching that bridges theory and real-world application.
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 Wilmington
Students enjoy a vibrant coastal lifestyle with easy access to Wrightsville Beach for surfing, paddleboarding, and sunbathing. Downtown Wilmington offers a lively scene with historic Riverwalk shops, diverse restaurants, live music venues, and film industry events, providing endless options for fun and relaxation.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,967):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UNC Wilmington maintains a safe campus with low crime rates, supported by proactive campus police and well-lit pathways. Wilmington itself is a generally safe city, though students should stay aware of their surroundings in the urban areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime coastal location with beach access and outdoor activities
- ✓ Strong programs in health, business, and marine sciences with research opportunities
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicating student satisfaction and support
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition and solid post-graduation earnings
Cons
- ✗ Higher out-of-state tuition may be a barrier for non-residents
- ✗ Urban setting can lead to increased living costs and occasional traffic
- ✗ Limited diversity compared to larger urban universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UNCW is particularly known for its excellence in health professions, marine biology, and environmental sciences, leveraging its coastal location for unique research and fieldwork opportunities. It also has strong programs in business, psychology, and recreation, supported by a focus on experiential learning and community engagement.
With an acceptance rate of 74.01%, UNCW is moderately selective, making it accessible but competitive. Applicants typically have an average SAT score of 1262, and strong grades in core subjects, along with demonstrated interest in the university's coastal programs, can improve chances of admission.
Campus life at UNCW is dynamic and outdoorsy, with students frequently heading to nearby beaches, participating in intramural sports, and engaging in sustainability initiatives. The university offers over 200 student organizations, including clubs focused on marine conservation, arts, and leadership, fostering a balanced and inclusive community.
Yes, UNCW provides excellent value, especially for in-state students, with a low net price and strong graduation and retention rates. Graduates see median earnings of $54,967 after 10 years, and the university's location and programs in growing fields like health and business enhance job prospects and return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 16,257
- In-State Tuition $7,317
- Out-of-State $22,985
- Zip Code 28403
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of $7,317 and an average net price of $19,472, UNCW offers strong value, especially for North Carolina residents. The 10-year median earnings of $54,967 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like health professions and business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.