Acceptance Rate
64%
Avg. SAT
1340
75th percentile
“Coastal public university blending marine science excellence with creative arts in beachside Wilmington.”
Wilmington, NC
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) began as Wilmington College in 1947, initially serving World War II veterans as a two-year institution. It expanded to a four-year college in 1958 and joined the UNC system as a university in 1969. Today, it enrolls about 18,000 students on a scenic 656-acre campus overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, fostering a relaxed, outdoors-oriented personality shaped by its seaside location.
UNCW suits students who enjoy a collaborative, hands-on environment amid nature. Independent thinkers drawn to environmental studies, film, or business thrive here, alongside those seeking a balance of academics and beach life. The laid-back vibe attracts coastal North Carolinians and out-of-staters alike, emphasizing real-world experiences over cutthroat competition.
Photo Gallery
+7
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
UNCW excels in marine biology, environmental science, and film studies, leveraging its coastal setting for field research at sites like the nearby saltwater labs and aquariums. The Cameron School of Business and Watson College of Education are also strong, with undergraduate programs emphasizing practical skills. Class sizes average 25 students, promoting interactive teaching and faculty mentorship.
Notable programs include the marine science major, ranked among the nation's best, and film studies bolstered by Wilmington's 'Hollywood East' studios. Research opportunities abound for undergrads, particularly in coastal ecology and creative writing through the award-winning English department.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
15,254 undergrad • 3,594 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
76%
Black / African American
6%
Hispanic / Latino
8%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
8%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Wilmington, NC
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life revolves around the beach proximity, with students biking to Wrightsville Beach for surfing and volleyball. UNCW's Division I Seahawks compete in Conference USA, drawing crowds to basketball and soccer games, while tailgates and bonfires add to the spirited atmosphere.
Greek life involves about 20% of students, alongside 200+ clubs for outdoors enthusiasts, filmmakers, and musicians. Traditions include the annual Block and Bridle livestock show and homecoming festivities, creating a welcoming social scene in a mid-sized college town with diverse dining and live music.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Coastal Athletic Association
ROTC & Veteran Support
Veteran’s Programs Available
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
88%
4 Years Graduation Rate
64%
6 Years Graduation Rate
74%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$54,967
88% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of North Carolina Wilmington and return in the fall. 64% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 74% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
64%
4-5 years
10%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
25%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$4,443
Acceptance
64%
Undergrads
15,254
4-Year Grad Rate
64%
Endowment
$148M
Wilmington, NC 28403-5963