The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is a prestigious public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Founded in 1789, it is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and is renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and rich history.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, journalism, law, medicine, public health, and more. UNC-Chapel Hill has distinguished faculty and rigorous academic standards. The university provides students with a top-notch education and prepares them for successful careers in their chosen fields.
Beyond academics, UNC Chapel Hill offers a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. Students can participate in a wide range of cultural, athletic, artistic, and community service activities. The university’s athletic program, known as the Tar Heels, competes in NCAA Division I sports and has a history of success in basketball, football, soccer, and other sports. The spirited atmosphere of athletic events, such as basketball games at the Dean E. Smith Center or football games at Kenan Memorial Stadium, creates a sense of camaraderie and school pride among students, alumni, and fans.
UNC-Chapel Hill is also deeply committed to community engagement and public service. Through initiatives like the Carolina Center for Public Service and the Robertson Scholars Program, students have opportunities to engage in meaningful service projects, internships, and research that address pressing societal issues. The university’s dedication to public service aligns with its motto, “Lux Libertas” (Light and Liberty), emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge and the commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Location
The campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is situated on a beautiful 729-acre campus in the heart of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The campus is known for its striking architecture, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere. UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus is rich in history and boasts a charming blend of traditional and modern architecture. The iconic Old Well, a symbol of the university, is a popular gathering spot for students and a source of good luck. The historic Playmakers Theatre, the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower, and the Wilson Library are among the architectural gems that add character to the campus. The campus is adorned with beautiful green spaces, expansive lawns, and tree-lined walkways. The quad, known as Polk Place, is a central gathering area for students and a tranquil spot for studying or socializing. The Coker Arboretum, located adjacent to the campus, offers a peaceful retreat with its diverse collection of trees, plants, and gardens. UNC Chapel Hill’s campus is a place of academic excellence where students can connect, explore, and create lasting memories.
Student Cohort Size
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill has 19,743 undergraduate students and 11,796 graduate students. 60% of the students are females and 40% of the students are male. 6.1% of the admitted students are international students.
Four-Year Completion Rate
The graduation rate is among the most important factors when selecting a college. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill’s first-year retention rate is 95%. This means that 95% of first-year students continue their education for their sophomore year and beyond. The 4-year graduation rate is 84%. This implies that 84% of students were able to graduate after 4 years. The 6-year graduation rate is 90%. This implies that 90% of students were able to graduate after 6 years.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The student-faculty ratio at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is 16:1. 40.7% of the classes are with fewer than 20 students.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Carolina welcomed 5,602 new students as the entering class of 2023 from a pool of 63,217 applications compared to 57,219 first-year applications for fall 2022. In 2022, UNC Chappel Hill accepted 5,342 students with an overall acceptance rate of 16.8 percent. The accepted students represent 49 states and 86 countries.
Types of Admission
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill applicants can apply through the Early Action or Regular Decision programs. Early Action is a non-binding and unrestrictive admission plan that may be an attractive option for those who feel they can present a strong application without senior grades being reviewed. Regular Decision is a non-binding and unrestrictive admission plan that allows students more time to complete the application and to have grades from the first term of their senior year considered in the review.
Application Components:
Complete the online application through the Common Application.
Letter of Recommendation: This letter should come from a teacher who taught you in a core academic area, like English, math, science, social science, or world language.
Official Transcript and School Report
Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT test scores are optional.
Essay and Two Short Answers: Your personal essay and short answers give the admission officers a chance to hear your voice and see you as a whole person, not just a student.
Academics
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is renowned for its strong academic programs and diverse range of schools and colleges. Here are some of the key academic offerings at UNC Chapel Hill:
College of Arts and Sciences: The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest academic unit at UNC-Chapel Hill and offers a wide array of undergraduate majors and minors across various disciplines. It encompasses departments in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. Students have the opportunity to pursue majors in subjects like English, biology, psychology, history, economics, and more.
Kenan-Flagler Business School: The Kenan-Flagler Business School is known for its rigorous business education and commitment to developing future business leaders. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and executive education programs. The undergraduate business program provides a strong foundation in business fundamentals and offers concentrations in areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and operations.
School of Education: The School of Education at UNC Chapel Hill is dedicated to preparing educators, researchers, and leaders in the field of education. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs that focus on teaching, counseling, educational leadership, and policy. Students gain practical experience through field placements in local schools and have the opportunity to engage in research and community outreach initiatives.
School of Journalism and Media: The School of Journalism and Media offers programs that prepare students for careers in journalism, media production, strategic communication, and multimedia storytelling. Students gain practical skills in reporting, writing, multimedia production, and digital media. The school emphasizes ethical and responsible communication practices in today’s rapidly changing media landscape.
School of Law: The UNC School of Law is highly regarded for its legal education and commitment to public service. It offers a Juris Doctor (JD) program as well as dual-degree programs in collaboration with other schools at UNC Chapel Hill. The law school provides a comprehensive curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and clinics where students can gain practical legal skills.
Gillings School of Global Public Health: The Gillings School of Global Public Health is consistently ranked among the top public health schools in the United States. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in public health, health policy, environmental health sciences, epidemiology, and more. Students engage in research, fieldwork, and community-based projects to address public health challenges and promote well-being.
School of Medicine: The UNC School of Medicine is renowned for its innovative medical education, research, and patient care. It offers programs leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree as well as combined degree programs, including MD/PhD and MD/MPH. The school emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based medicine, and community engagement.
These are just a few examples of the schools and colleges at UNC Chapel Hill. The university also offers programs in fields such as public policy, social work, pharmacy, information science, dentistry, and nursing.
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Business
Psychology & Neuroscience
Computer Science
Political Science
Cost of Attendance- 2024-25
| Cost | Living on and off campus | Living with Family | With Dependents |
| Tuition | $7,020 | $7,020 | $7,020 |
| Fees | $1,990 | $1,990 | $1,990 |
| Housing | $7,736 | $1,350 | $14,068 |
| Food | $6,068 | $4,046 | $6,068 |
| Books & Supplies |
$1,290 | $1,290 | $1,290 |
| Travel | $976 | $976 | $976 |
| Loan Fees | $56 | $56 | $56 |
| Personal | $1,900 | $1,900 | $1,900 |
| Total | $27,360 | $18,628 | $33,368 |
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Traditions
The Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower
The Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus. Its distinctive chimes can be heard throughout campus, making it a beloved sound for students, faculty, and staff.
In addition to its beauty and function as a timekeeper, the bell tower is also home to a 90-year-old tradition of master bell ringers. These students oversee the bell tower’s operations and ring the bells on special occasions, such as football game days and graduation ceremonies.
The bell tower is a cherished part of UNC-Chapel Hill’s history and culture. It is a reminder of the university’s rich tradition and the dedication of its students.
To conclude, UNC Chapel Hill’s academic excellence, commitment to research, public service, and vibrant intellectual community make it a highly respected institution for higher education. UNC Chapel Hill continues to shape the minds of future leaders and make a significant impact in the world.
