
Colleges Near Jacksonville, NC: A Comprehensive Guide How to Choose the Right College for You Common Mistakes to Avoid Frequently Asked Questions Conclusion
Jacksonville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving educational landscape. It is home to several colleges and universities, each offering a unique academic experience. Whether you are a local resident or considering relocating to Jacksonville, this guide provides an overview of the colleges near Jacksonville, NC, to help you make an informed decision about your higher education.

Coastal Carolina University
- Location: Conway, South Carolina (approximately 30 miles from Jacksonville)
- Enrollment: Over 11,000 students
- Academic Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health sciences, and humanities.
- Unique Features: Known for its beautiful campus, strong athletics programs, and commitment to sustainability.
- Tuition and Fees: Approximately $26,000 per year for in-state students and $37,000 per year for out-of-state students (2021-2022 academic year).
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- Location: Wilmington, North Carolina (approximately 45 miles from Jacksonville)
- Enrollment: Over 17,000 students
- Academic Programs: Offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs, including marine science, business, education, engineering, and social sciences.
- Unique Features: University of North Carolina at Wilmington has a strong research focus and is home to the Center for Marine Science.
- Tuition and Fees: Approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students and $36,000 per year for out-of-state students (2021-2022 academic year).
Craven Community College
- Location: New Bern, North Carolina (approximately 25 miles from Jacksonville)
- Enrollment: Over 5,000 students
- Academic Programs: Offers associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education programs in various fields, including business, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- Unique Features: Craven Community College has a strong focus on technical education and workforce development.
- Tuition and Fees: Approximately $12,000 per year for in-county students and $16,000 per year for out-of-county students (2021-2022 academic year).
Other Colleges and Universities in the Region
- East Carolina University (ECU): ECU is a public research university located in Greenville, North Carolina (approximately 90 miles from Jacksonville). It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including medical and dental professions.
- North Carolina State University (NCSU): NCSU is a public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina (approximately 120 miles from Jacksonville). It is known for its strong engineering, computer science, and veterinary medicine programs.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: UNC-Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina (approximately 150 miles from Jacksonville). It is considered one of the leading universities in the country and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Choosing the right college for your educational and career goals is a crucial decision. Here are some factors to consider when making your choice:
- Academic Programs: Ensure the college offers the academic programs you are interested in studying.
- Location: Consider the proximity to your home and commute time if necessary.
- Student Life: Research the campus culture, student organizations, and extracurricular activities offered.
- Cost: Tuition, fees, and other expenses associated with attending college can vary significantly.
- Financial Aid: Explore scholarship and financial aid opportunities available to assist with college costs.
- Applying too late: Begin the college application process early to avoid missing deadlines.
- Not researching the college: Attend campus tours, visit the college website, and speak with current students and faculty to learn more about the college.
- Ignoring financial aid opportunities: Explore all available scholarship and financial aid options to reduce the cost of college.
- Choosing a college primarily based on social factors: While student life is important, academic fit should be the top priority.
- Overestimating your financial ability: Create a realistic budget and consider all associated costs of attending college.
- What is the cost of attending college near Jacksonville, NC? Tuition and fees vary depending on the college and your residency status. Research the specific costs of each college you are interested in.
- Do colleges near Jacksonville, NC offer financial aid? Yes, most colleges offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans.
- What is the student-to-faculty ratio at colleges near Jacksonville, NC? This varies depending on the college, but generally, the smaller the student-to-faculty ratio, the more individualized attention you receive.
- What types of extracurricular activities are available at colleges near Jacksonville, NC? Most colleges offer a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and athletic programs.
- How do I apply to colleges near Jacksonville, NC? Each college has its own application process, which typically includes submitting an application form, transcripts, and other supporting documents.
- What is the deadline for applying to colleges near Jacksonville, NC? Deadlines vary, but it is advisable to apply early to increase your chances of acceptance.
Jacksonville, NC, and the surrounding area offer a variety of colleges and universities to choose from. By carefully considering your educational and career goals, you can find the college that best fits your needs and aspirations. Remember to research each college thoroughly, avoid common mistakes, and make an informed decision that sets you on a path to success.