Skip to content
U.S. News #308 Public, 4-year

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina · www.nccu.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#308

Acceptance rate

87.0%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$19,735

In-state $6,699

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

6,595

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

26.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 44.2%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is a public historically black university located in Durham, North Carolina. Established in 1910, NCCU has a rich history of providing quality education and fostering social justice, making it a beacon of hope for many students. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of education, research, and community engagement, which aligns with its core values of integrity, excellence, and professionalism. The campus is vibrant and diverse, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness, which enriches the overall student experience.

NCCU boasts a strong academic program, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines, including law, business, education, and the liberal arts. The School of Law is particularly notable, recognized for its commitment to public service and social justice. The university’s research initiatives, particularly in health disparities and environmental justice, contribute to its reputation as a leader in addressing pressing societal issues. Additionally, the campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, research labs, and recreational centers, which support a holistic approach to education. The vibrant campus life includes numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and cultural events, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit among students. Overall, North Carolina Central University stands out for its dedication to academic excellence, community service, and the development of future leaders.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University has shown notable trends in several key educational metrics over the years. One of the most significant observations is the increase in graduation rates. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time rose from approximately 15% in 2014 to about 27% in 2023. This upward trend indicates improvements in student support and academic resources, suggesting that the university is effectively enhancing its educational outcomes.

In addition to graduation rates, retention rates also reflect a positive trajectory. The retention rate for undergraduate students hovered around 71% in 2013 and peaked at 82% in 2019, before stabilizing around 76% in the following years. This stability in retention signifies that students are finding value in their educational experience, which is crucial for fostering a supportive academic environment.

However, the data reveals a concerning trend in enrollment numbers. The number of undergraduate students has declined from 6,220 in 2014 to 5,634 in 2023. This decrease may indicate challenges in attracting new students, possibly due to rising tuition costs or increased competition from other institutions. The average tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from $5,526 in 2014 to $6,599 in 2023, which may deter potential applicants.

Moreover, the gender ratio among students has shown slight fluctuations. The proportion of female undergraduate students remains notably higher than that of male students, with a ratio of approximately 70% female to 30% male in recent years. This trend aligns with broader national patterns in higher education, where female enrollment often exceeds that of males.

Overall, while North Carolina Central University is making strides in graduation and retention rates, it faces challenges in maintaining enrollment amidst rising costs. Addressing these issues will be vital for sustaining the university's growth and ensuring it continues to provide quality education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Durham
Nearest international airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 9 mi
Durham, North Carolina
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Karrie G. Dixon (Chancellor)
Phone
9195306100
City
Durham, North Carolina
Address
1801 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC 27707

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
83.8%
Women
88.3%

In 2020: men 63.4%, women 70.1%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#308Ranked #308 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at North Carolina Central University

The admission trends at North Carolina Central University over the years highlight significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as overall enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate saw a decline from approximately 70.5% to 81.5%, while the female acceptance rate showed a similar pattern, starting at about 75.5% and reaching 85.7%. This indicates that the university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity may be increasing, as it appears to be becoming more selective over time.
Enrollment numbers have also varied significantly, peaking at 1,358 in 2011 before experiencing a notable dip to just 925 in 2015. This decrease in enrollment could be attributed to various factors, including changing demographics, economic conditions, or increased competition among higher education institutions. The number of students denied admission has risen dramatically, particularly in 2015 when 6,386 applicants were denied, suggesting that the university faced a surge in applications but could only accommodate a limited number of students.
Interestingly, the number of deferred admissions also shows an upward trend, peaking in 2023, which indicates that the university may be taking a more cautious approach in its admissions process. Overall, these trends reveal a complex landscape for North Carolina Central University, where selectivity is increasing, but challenges in maintaining steady enrollment numbers persist. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are navigating the balance between inclusivity and maintaining academic standards.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite19–22
ACT composite
19–22
253036

Data insights

Analysis of North Carolina Central University's Admission Scores Over the Years

The data from North Carolina Central University over the years reveals significant trends and fluctuations in both standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2013, there was a noticeable increase in the number of students submitting SAT scores, peaking in 2011 with 93% of admitted students submitting their scores. However, this trend saw a sharp decline post-2015, with only 54% of admitted students submitting SAT scores by 2017, and dropping to a mere 1% by 2023.

In terms of scores, the range for SAT Reading and Math has gradually improved from 370-480 in 2007 to a more competitive range of 480-600 by 2022. This upward trajectory suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores in recent years, those who do tend to have higher achievements. The ACT scores displayed a similar trend, indicating that the overall academic performance of those admitted has enhanced despite a decline in the volume of submissions.

This decline in test score submissions may reflect broader national trends in college admissions where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. This shift could be attributed to a growing recognition of a more holistic approach to evaluating candidates, focusing on a wider range of skills and experiences.

Overall, North Carolina Central University presents a compelling case study of evolving admissions practices, where increasing academic standards coincide with changing approaches towards standardized testing. As the landscape of higher education continues to shift, institutions like NCCU will likely adapt further to meet the needs of prospective students.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

18,368 applicants in 2025, 87.0% admitted

15,972 admitted 2,396 not admitted Yield 11.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's9655 international (0.5%)
Master's53114 international (2.6%)
Doctoral1370 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Social Sciences, General
119
Business Administration and Management, General
111
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
105
Psychology, General
95
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching
58
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
43
Social Work
40
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
39
Mass Communication/Media Studies
38
Information Technology
37

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Law · Doctoral135 (0% international)
  • Library and Information Science · Master's78 (0% international)
  • Social Work · Master's63 (0% international)
  • Public Administration · Master's60 (2% international)
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders, General · Master's49 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's45 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at North Carolina Central University

The graduation data from North Carolina Central University reveals intriguing trends across various disciplines for 2023. Notably, the Law program stands out with the highest number of doctoral graduates, totaling 130. This reflects a strong commitment to legal education and the increasing importance of advanced degrees in the legal profession, especially as the demand for legal expertise continues to grow in an ever-complex world.

In the realm of public service and administration, both the Public Administration and Criminal Justice programs also show significant engagement, with 69 and 114 graduates respectively at the master's level. These numbers highlight a rising interest in careers related to public policy and safety, a trend that is crucial given the current socio-political climate and the emphasis on community-focused governance.

The health and medical fields are well-represented as well, evident from the numerous graduates in Registered Nursing and Public Health Education. With 38 graduates in nursing alone, the institution is playing a vital role in addressing the ongoing healthcare workforce shortage—a pressing issue amplified by the recent global health crises.

Interestingly, the data indicates a relatively low number of international students in most programs, particularly in the bachelor’s and master’s categories. This could suggest potential barriers for international students or a need for more robust recruitment strategies to diversify the student body.

Overall, these figures not only underscore the university's strengths in law, public administration, and healthcare but also suggest areas for growth, particularly in attracting a more diverse student population and enhancing international engagement.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 178 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$42,507
Accounting.$49,848
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.$36,277
Health professionshas 172 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Communication Sciences and Disorders, General.$59,149
Clinical Research Coordinator.-
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$52,723
Public Health Education and Promotion.$40,115
Dietetics/Dietitian.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$82,930
Public administrationhas 163 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Public Administration.$55,325
Social Work.$40,092-$55,660
Social sciencehas 149 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.$39,291
Political Science and Government, General.$37,970
Educationhas 141 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.$69,247
Secondary School Administration/Principalship.$69,247
Educational/Instructional Technology.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Vision Impairments Including Blindness.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$63,426
College Student Counseling and Personnel Services.$63,426
Elementary Education and Teaching.$51,021-$56,120
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching.$51,021-$56,120
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$51,021-$56,120
Legal professionshas 135 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Law.$61,944
Homeland security has 127 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$38,123-$53,196
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$38,123-$53,196
Psychology has 109 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$34,617-$44,059
Parks, recreation, leisure has 82 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.$36,044
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$39,024-$39,032
Biologyhas 82 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$45,006-$56,073
Biomedical Sciences, General.$45,006-$56,073
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other.-
Libraryhas 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Library and Information Science.$46,924
Computer and information sciencehas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.$64,432
Computer and Information Sciences, Other.$64,432
Information Science/Studies.$61,754
Communication has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$39,467
Visual and Performing artshas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Fashion/Apparel Design.-
Art/Art Studies, General.$23,251
Music, General.-
Jazz/Jazz Studies.-
Liberal arts has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Physics, General.-
History has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Natural resources has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-
English has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Human science has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General.$39,583-$59,508
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-

Students

8,579 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 30:70 · Freshman retention 72.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,595)

Black
5,372 · 81.5%
Hispanic
443 · 6.7%
White
263 · 4.0%
Two or more races
262 · 4.0%
Unknown
132 · 2.0%
Asian
72 · 1.1%
International
25 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
8.4%
18–19
42.5%
20–21
22.6%
22–24
11.3%
25 and over
15.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
3.4%
22–24
29.3%
25–29
27.1%
30–34
13.2%
35 and over
27.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at North Carolina Central University in 2023

The student body composition at North Carolina Central University in 2023 highlights some interesting trends regarding gender and diversity. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,079 students, with a significant majority being female at 68.6%, while males represent 31.4%. This pattern continues among the upperclassmen, where females make up 70.6% of the 3,624 students. Such gender ratios suggest a trend where more females are pursuing higher education, particularly at this institution.

When looking at the transfer students, the figures remain consistent, with a gender ratio of 68.6% female to 31.4% male among the 398 students. The graduate student population, totaling 1,919, also shows a higher percentage of females at 72.6% compared to 27.4% males. This consistent female predominance across all categories may reflect broader societal shifts towards women achieving higher educational attainment.

The data regarding ethnic composition reveals a diverse student body, although specific figures for each subgroup are not fully detailed. Notably, the presence of international students and various racial groups illustrates North Carolina Central University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

Overall, the trends observed in this data not only reflect the university's demographic landscape but may also echo national educational patterns. As institutions increasingly prioritize diversity and gender equity, North Carolina Central University appears to be aligning with these significant educational trends.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at North Carolina Central University

The age demographics of students at North Carolina Central University reveal a diverse and predominantly younger student body. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the 18-19 age bracket, with a staggering 1,340 females and 571 males, reflecting the university's appeal to traditional college-age students. This trend is consistent with national statistics, where most undergraduates fall within a similar age range.

Interestingly, as students age, the number of males enrolling in undergraduate programs declines, particularly evident in the 22-24 age group, where there are only 276 males compared to 439 females. This raises questions about the retention and transition of men into higher education, a trend observed nationwide, where male enrollment has been declining in recent years.

The data also highlights a notable presence of graduate students, especially among females aged 25-29, where there are 363 females pursuing advanced degrees compared to 157 males. This suggests a growing trend of women seeking further education, which aligns with broader societal shifts towards empowering women in academia and the workforce.

Moreover, the representation of students aged 30 and above, while smaller, indicates that non-traditional students are also a vital part of the university community. These older students often bring valuable life experiences to their studies, enriching the learning environment.

Overall, the age demographic data from North Carolina Central University not only underscores the importance of supporting younger students but also highlights the increasing participation of women in higher education and the need for institutions to cater to a diverse age range among their student populations.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.4%

25 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.2%2017: 0.2%2018: 0.2%2019: 0.2%2020: 0.2%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.2%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.3%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students1.9%

37 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.6%2017: 1.3%2018: 1.3%2019: 1.2%2020: 1.0%2021: 0.9%2022: 1.1%2023: 2.1%2024: 2.3%2025: 1.9%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at North Carolina Central University

The data on international students at North Carolina Central University over the years reveals a concerning trend, particularly in undergraduate enrollment. The percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a general decline from 0.54% in 2004 to 0.20% in 2023. This decline may suggest several underlying issues, such as increased competition from other institutions or potential challenges in attracting international talent amidst changing immigration policies.

In contrast, the graduate student population shows a more fluctuating pattern. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 2.14% in 2023, indicating a growing interest among graduate students compared to their undergraduate counterparts. This divergence might reflect a shift in the university's appeal or the availability of specialized programs that attract international scholars.

Moreover, the overall decrease in total undergraduate students from 2004 to 2023, coupled with a drop in the number of international undergraduates, could raise concerns regarding the university's recruitment strategies and the need for enhanced support for international students. As universities increasingly emphasize global diversity, it is crucial for North Carolina Central University to reassess its approach to international enrollment to ensure it remains competitive and inclusive.

The fluctuating trends in graduate enrollments also highlight the importance of fostering a welcoming environment for international students, which can enhance the academic community and contribute to a richer cultural exchange. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, universities must adapt their strategies to attract and retain international talent effectively.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$33,185

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$19,735
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$6,699
Room and board
$13,450
Graduate tuition
$20,946
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 11% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$272M

Government grants and contracts
$142M52.3%
Tuition and fees
$50.6M18.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$30.9M11.4%
Gifts and private grants
$19.0M7.0%
Investment return
$8.6M3.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1K0.0%
Other
$20.6M7.6%

Expenses$259M

Instruction
$91.1M35.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$56.0M21.6%
Academic support
$26.6M10.3%
Institutional support
$24.9M9.6%
Research
$15.6M6.0%
Scholarships
$15.4M6.0%
Student services
$9.0M3.5%
Public service
$2.2M0.9%
Other
$17.8M6.9%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$86,065peers $80,690
Professor
$115,111peers $98,841
Associate professor
$91,394peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$82,020peers $74,446
Instructor
$59,562peers $58,934
Lecturer
$58,227peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference

Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference: football, basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football110-
Track and Field (Indoor)2931
Track and Field (Outdoor)2424
Basketball1716
Softball-20
Volleyball-19
Cross Country89
Tennis97
Golf76
2024
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football110-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2722
Track and Field (Indoor)2621
Basketball1714
Softball-22
Golf107
Tennis88
Cross Country79
Volleyball-15
2023
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football112-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2528
Track and Field (Indoor)2228
Basketball1613
Softball-19
Volleyball-17
Cross Country87
Tennis86
Golf66

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near North Carolina Central University:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a private research university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, this is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university known for its commitment to the liberal arts and a strong emphasis on small class sizes and student engagement.

  4. North Carolina State University at Raleigh - This public university is ranked 60th and is recognized for its engineering and technology programs.

  5. Elon University - With a rank of 133, Elon is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and a vibrant campus community.

  6. Davidson College - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 16th and is known for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape around North Carolina Central University.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
413
Drug arrests
81
Domestic violence
68
Liquor referrals
67
Stalking
48
Weapons arrests
36

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at North Carolina Central University

The crime data from North Carolina Central University over the past decade reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety, with a notable increase in incidents in recent years. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students stood at 19.85, but it has escalated to 28.31 by 2023, indicating a rise in reported incidents.

Specifically, arrests for carrying firearms have shown a concerning pattern. From 2018 to 2022, the campus experienced a significant spike in such arrests, peaking in 2017 with 19 recorded incidents. This escalation could correlate with broader national trends regarding gun violence and safety concerns on campuses, reflecting a societal issue that extends beyond the university's boundaries.

Moreover, drug and alcohol-related arrests have also seen fluctuations, with the highest rates observed in 2018. This may suggest an increasing problem with substance abuse among students, which is not uncommon in university settings where peer pressure and stress can lead to risky behaviors.

The year 2021 marked a decrease in the overall crime rate, which may have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent reduction in on-campus activities. However, the resurgence in crime rates in 2022 and 2023 indicates that safety remains a pressing issue for the university community.

Ongoing efforts to enhance campus safety, including awareness programs and preventive measures, are critical to addressing these trends. Understanding the dynamics of crime on campus is essential for fostering a safer environment for students and staff alike. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: crime rates calculation method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of North Carolina Central University include Lee Calhoun (Hurdler, two-time Olympic 110 m hurdles champion), Larry Black (Sprinter, 1972 Olympic 4x100m relay gold medalist) and André Leon Talley (Fashion journalist and Vogue creative director).

See all 24 notable alumni of North Carolina Central University →

Recent News at North Carolina Central University

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Jun 2024Latest update
LeadershipMost common topic
  1. Leadership

    On June 6, 2024, Dr. Karrie Dixon was elected chancellor of North Carolina Central University after serving as chancellor (not president) of Elizabeth City State University since 2018.

    Source: northcarolina.edu

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.