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Public, 4-year

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, North Carolina · www.uncp.edu

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Acceptance rate

93.3%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$7,648

In-state $3,648

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

5,437

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

24.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.2%

Peer median 29.5%

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

About

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is a distinguished institution located in Pembroke, North Carolina. Established in 1887, UNCP has a rich history and is particularly known for its commitment to serving the Native American community, being one of the few historically minority-serving institutions in the United States. The university's mission emphasizes inclusivity, diversity, and academic excellence, fostering a vibrant environment that encourages students from various backgrounds to thrive. The campus culture is characterized by a strong sense of community, where students engage in numerous extracurricular activities, including cultural events, leadership programs, and clubs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Lumbee Tribe and other Native American groups.

UNCP offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with particular strengths in education, business, and health sciences. The university is dedicated to providing quality education through a robust faculty-student engagement model, ensuring that students receive personalized attention from experienced faculty members. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers that support both academic and athletic pursuits. The university's commitment to student success is reflected in its strong support services, including career counseling and internship opportunities, which enhance graduates' employability. Overall, UNCP is a dynamic institution that not only prioritizes academic achievement but also fosters a supportive and inclusive community for all students.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke has shown notable shifts in several key metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention.

Firstly, the tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students increased from approximately $5,144 in 2014 to $3,571 in 2024, reflecting a significant fluctuation in costs, especially during 2019 and 2020 when in-state tuition dropped to $3,490. Such variations may indicate strategic financial adjustments to attract more students or respond to economic challenges, which could have been influenced by the broader economic conditions, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Graduation rates have also seen an upward trend, with the on-time graduation rate rising from about 15.2% in 2013 to 23.1% in 2023. This increase suggests improvements in student support services or academic programs, which may contribute to better student outcomes and retention rates. In fact, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 71.6% in recent years, indicating that once students enroll, a significant proportion chooses to continue their studies at the institution.

Furthermore, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied slightly, peaking at 18 in 2019 before returning to 14 in 2023. A higher student-to-faculty ratio can impact the quality of education and personalized attention students receive, which could correlate with both retention and graduation rates.

In summary, while tuition costs have fluctuated significantly, the university appears to be making strides in improving graduation and retention rates, which are crucial for student success and institutional reputation. Monitoring these trends will be essential for understanding the overall health and effectiveness of the university's educational strategies.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Raleigh, about 90 mi
Nearest international airport
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about 70 mi
Pembroke, North Carolina
Also known as
UNCP
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Robin G. Cummings (Chancellor)
Phone
9105216000
City
Pembroke, North Carolina
Address
One University Drive, Pembroke, NC 28372-1510

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
92.9%
Women
93.1%

In 2020: men 82.0%, women 86.8%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The admission trends at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate showed a notable decline, especially between 2009 and 2010, where it dropped from approximately 84.7% to 56.3%. This sharp decrease may reflect a growing competitiveness in admissions, prompting the university to become more selective in its applicant pool.
Interestingly, the female acceptance rate has also seen fluctuations, though it remained relatively high compared to male rates, peaking at 93.2% in 2021. The overall trend demonstrates a gradual shift towards a more competitive admission process, as evidenced by the increased number of denied applicants, particularly in the years leading up to 2022, where denial reached a peak of 455.
The enrollment numbers also varied considerably, with a maximum of 1,233 new students admitted in 2016 and a decline to 714 by 2023. This decline might suggest a shift in strategy by the university to focus on quality over quantity, resulting in smaller yet potentially more qualified cohorts.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions increased significantly in recent years, indicating that many students may still wish to attend but require additional time to prepare. This trend aligns with broader national patterns in higher education where students are increasingly taking gap years or delaying college enrollment due to various circumstances, including financial considerations and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions at UNC Pembroke and reflect wider societal shifts impacting student choices and university policies.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Public Affairs#219▼2
Business School1 programs—
Health Specialty1 programs—

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 · 2% submitted SAT, 10% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total970–1200Peer median 1080
ACT composite18–23
SAT Reading
490–600
600700800
SAT Math
480–600
600700800
ACT composite
18–23
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The data from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke over the years reveals significant trends in admission test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has been on a downward trajectory, dropping from 94% in 2007 to a mere 1% in 2023. This decline could reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, potentially influenced by the increasing emphasis on holistic admissions processes and equity in access to education.

In terms of scoring, both SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations but generally indicate a slight decline in the 25th to 75th percentile range over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores started at a range of 420 to 510 in 2007 but decreased to a range of 460 to 580 by 2023, suggesting a need for the university to address academic preparedness among its incoming students.

Furthermore, the number of applicants submitting SAT scores peaked at 1,119 in 2011, then dramatically decreased to just 4 in 2023. This sharp decline raises questions about the effectiveness of outreach and recruitment practices at the university. It suggests a need for strategic changes in how the university engages with potential students, possibly incorporating more diverse admission criteria that could attract a broader applicant pool.

Overall, the data reflects broader shifts in college admissions and highlights the importance of adapting to changing educational landscapes in order to maintain a vibrant and diverse student body.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

8,178 applicants in 2025, 93.3% admitted

7,627 admitted 551 not admitted Yield 10.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1,21927 international (2.2%)
Master's8527 international (0.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
262
Business Administration and Management, General
169
Sociology, General
127
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
116
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
76
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
72
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
53
Psychology, General
52
Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling
34
Information Technology
30

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's371 (1% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's198 (0% international)
  • Clinical/Medical Social Work · Master's105 (2% international)
  • Secondary School Administration/Principalship · Master's76 (0% international)
  • College Student Counseling and Personnel Services · Master's29 (3% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's16 (0% international)

Data insights

Insights on Graduation Data from University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The graduation data from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveals interesting trends in various fields of study for the year 2023. A significant highlight is the dominance of the Master's degree in Business Administration and Management, with a total of 468 graduates, including five international students. This indicates a strong interest in business-focused education, reflecting the increasing demand for business professionals in today's economy.

Additionally, interdisciplinary studies and criminal justice also show a robust number of graduates, with 209 and 131 bachelor's degrees awarded, respectively. This trend could be indicative of shifting job market needs where versatility and understanding of multiple disciplines are valued.

Conversely, certain fields such as Environmental Science and various educational tracks (like Teacher Education) show a minimal number of graduates at the bachelor's level, highlighting potential areas for growth and emphasis in future enrollment strategies. The absence of graduates in some specialized education programs might signal a need for universities to reassess their offerings in line with workforce demands and societal needs.

Furthermore, the data also sheds light on the international student participation across different programs, albeit at lower levels, particularly in business and health-related fields. This suggests a growing interest among international students in these areas, which could enhance the diversity and global perspective within these programs.

In summary, the graduation data not only reflects the university's educational strengths but also points towards broader trends in higher education and workforce preparation, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of job opportunities and student interests.

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 565 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$46,902-$73,120
Accounting.-
Educationhas 387 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Secondary School Administration/Principalship.$64,337
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$52,778
College Student Counseling and Personnel Services.$52,778
Elementary Education and Teaching.$44,911-$50,464
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$44,911-$50,464
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching.$44,911-$50,464
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$44,911-$50,464
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$44,489-$49,905
Mathematics Teacher Education.$44,489-$49,905
Music Teacher Education.$44,489-$49,905
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$44,489-$49,905
Reading Teacher Education.$44,489-$49,905
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 262 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.$45,821
Health professionshas 199 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Clinical/Medical Social Work.-
Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$80,728
Social sciencehas 147 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.$37,602
Sociology, General.$37,430
Homeland security has 116 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$40,382
Parks, recreation, leisure has 83 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$31,980
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$31,980
Biologyhas 76 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$33,148
Computer and information sciencehas 58 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Information Technology.$49,231
Computer Science.$47,898
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Psychology has 52 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$30,027
Visual and Performing artshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$28,361
Music, General.-
Communication has 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$32,289
History has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$31,521
Physical scienceshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.$28,093
Physics, General.-
Public administrationhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Administration.$61,999
English has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Natural resources has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Foreign languages has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Cultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
American Indian/Native American Studies.-

Students

7,674 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 71.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,437)

White
1,818 · 33.4%
Black
1,473 · 27.1%
Hispanic
602 · 11.1%
Two or more races
411 · 7.6%
International
230 · 4.2%
Unknown
72 · 1.3%
Asian
55 · 1.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.5%
18–19
25.4%
20–21
22.6%
22–24
15.4%
25 and over
35.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.2%
22–24
15.2%
25–29
20.0%
30–34
16.3%
35 and over
46.3%

Data insights

Demographic Insights on Student Composition at UNC Pembroke in 2023

The demographic breakdown of students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveals significant insights into the diversity and gender distribution within the student body for the year 2023. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen constitute a substantial portion of the student population, with a total of 714 students. Among them, females make up 54.8%, showcasing a trend towards higher female enrollment compared to males at 45.2%.

Undergraduate juniors represent the largest group with 4,100 students, but they show a stark gender disparity, with only 37.4% male students against 62.6% female students. This trend continues across other categories, including undergraduate transfer students and graduate students, both of which have a notably higher percentage of females—65.9% and 72.6%, respectively.

In terms of racial and ethnic composition, while specific figures for each subgroup are not fully detailed, the available data suggests a predominance of white students across the various categories. For instance, in the freshman category, white students account for a significant number, but the exact proportions for other races remain unspecified in this dataset.

This gender disparity in enrollment, particularly among undergraduates, reflects broader trends in higher education, where females increasingly outnumber males. Such trends might be influenced by various societal factors, including changing career aspirations and educational opportunities for women, as well as shifting perceptions of gender roles.

Overall, UNC Pembroke's student demographics in 2023 reflect ongoing discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion within academic institutions, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to support underrepresented groups.

Age Composition of Students at UNC Pembroke in 2023

The age distribution of students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveals significant insights into the demographic makeup of the institution. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, constituting approximately 42.9% of the total student population. This trend aligns with national patterns observed at universities, where a substantial number of students enroll immediately after high school.

As we examine the data further, students aged 20-21 represent the second-largest cohort, accounting for around 33.2% of the student body. This pattern suggests that many individuals continue their education without significant gaps, reflecting a commitment to higher education among younger demographics.

Interestingly, the age group of 22-24 has a notable presence as well, with approximately 27.4% of students in this category. This could indicate that a considerable number of students are pursuing advanced degrees or taking time to work before returning to complete their education.

The data also highlights a diversity of ages among the student population, with individuals in their late twenties to early forties also represented. For instance, the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups together comprise about 29.6% of the student body, which may reflect the increasing trend of adult learners returning to education for career advancement or personal growth.

Overall, the age diversity at UNC Pembroke illustrates a vibrant and inclusive academic environment, catering to a wide range of life experiences and educational aspirations. This diversity not only enriches the campus community but also enhances the learning experience for all students, preparing them for a dynamic workforce that values varied perspectives.

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.

Undergraduates4.2%

230 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 0.9%2018: 0.7%2019: 1.0%2020: 1.4%2021: 1.5%2022: 1.7%2023: 2.2%2024: 2.9%2025: 4.2%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students0.5%

11 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.9%2017: 0.4%2018: 0.4%2019: 0.7%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.6%2022: 0.5%2023: 0.8%2024: 0.7%2025: 0.5%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Commentary on International Student Trends at UNC Pembroke

The data from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveals intriguing trends regarding international student enrollment over nearly two decades. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase, culminating in 2.18% in 2023. This increase can be attributed to the university's commitment to international education and its efforts to attract a diverse student body.

In contrast, the proportion of international graduate students has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 1.73% in 2022 before declining to 0.79% in 2023. This inconsistency may reflect broader trends in global education, such as changing visa policies, geopolitical factors, or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international mobility.

The overall growth in the undergraduate population, from 4,253 in 2004 to 5,643 in 2023, highlights UNC Pembroke's expanding capacity and appeal. However, the graduate student numbers have not experienced the same growth trajectory, indicating potential challenges in attracting graduate-level international talent.

As universities continue to navigate a post-pandemic landscape, the importance of fostering a welcoming environment for international students cannot be overstated. Institutions like UNC Pembroke must proactively implement strategies to enhance support services and promote their programs globally to ensure a diverse and vibrant academic community. Overall, the data underscores the evolving dynamics of international education in the U.S. and the need for adaptive approaches to attract and retain international talent.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$19,506

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$7,648
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$3,648
Room and board
$11,858
Graduate tuition
$19,987
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 -52% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$191M

Government grants and contracts
$131M68.2%
Tuition and fees
$22.0M11.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.7M8.2%
Gifts and private grants
$11.3M5.9%
Investment return
$5.0M2.6%
Sales and services of educational activities
$602K0.3%
Other
$6.1M3.2%

Expenses$164M

Instruction
$45.4M27.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$34.3M20.9%
Institutional support
$21.5M13.1%
Academic support
$20.6M12.6%
Scholarships
$13.4M8.2%
Student services
$10.9M6.6%
Public service
$3.6M2.2%
Research
$508K0.3%
Other
$13.9M8.5%

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
$78,476peers $80,690
Professor
$97,339peers $98,841
Associate professor
$80,257peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$76,640peers $74,446
Instructor
$56,124peers $58,934
Lecturer
$58,503peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Conference Carolinas

Conference Carolinas: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)14283
Football113-
Wrestling62-
Baseball36-
Basketball1715
Softball-22
Soccer-18
Swimming-18
Volleyball-18
Golf-9
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)14477
Football122-
Wrestling60-
Baseball39-
Basketball2018
Swimming-23
Soccer-22
Softball-20
Volleyball-15
Golf-5
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)12163
Football114-
Wrestling40-
Baseball36-
Basketball1816
Softball-22
Soccer-20
Swimming-20
Volleyball-16
Golf-9

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near the University of North Carolina at Pembroke:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke is renowned for its strong academic programs and research initiatives. It is located in Durham, North Carolina, and is known for its beautiful campus and competitive athletic programs.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, UNC Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It is celebrated for its strong liberal arts education and research opportunities.

  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 personal development.

  4. University of North Carolina Wilmington - This university ranks 201st and is known for its coastal location and strong programs in marine biology and environmental sciences.

  5. Davidson College - A prestigious liberal arts college ranked 16th, Davidson is known for its rigorous academics and focus on developing ethical leaders.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students seeking higher education in North Carolina.

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

Stalking
114
Drug referrals
87
Liquor referrals
38
Rape
35
Dating violence
31
Fondling
30

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The crime data from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke reveals a significant decline in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2021, reaching a low of 6.27 in 2021. This drop may reflect improved campus safety measures or a more vigilant community. However, the figures for 2022 and 2023 indicate a slight rise, with rates of 6.90 and 12.58 respectively. This uptick should be carefully monitored, as it could signify emerging issues that need to be addressed.

The breakdown of offenses shows that gun-related arrests have been a consistent concern throughout these years, even though their numbers have decreased. Notably, incidents of drug-related offenses and alcohol-related arrests also show fluctuations, suggesting varying enforcement levels or student behavior changes over time. The absence of reports for domestic violence and stalking in recent years is encouraging, but it’s essential to remain cautious, as these can often go unreported.

In the broader context, national trends indicate that while campus crime rates can fluctuate, universities are increasingly focusing on creating safer environments through awareness programs and support services. The data from UNC Pembroke aligns with this trend, as the institution continues to address safety proactively.

For those interested in understanding the calculations behind crime rates, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of University of North Carolina at Pembroke include Stephen Ademolu (Former Canadian soccer player and coach), Derek Brunson (Mixed martial artist, longtime UFC middleweight) and Dmytro Yakushyn (Ukrainian ice hockey player).

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.