Established in 1947 as Wilmington College, the state’s coastal university opened its doors for veterans returning from World War II in 1947. More than 75 years later, the University of North Carolina Wilmington is a top national institution with nearly 18,000 students, more than 2,500 faculty and staff, more than 170 buildings, and an ever-growing alumni network of more than 106,000.

Putting students first, supporting world-class faculty and staff, offering  powerful learning experiences  and making the most of its proximity to the ocean are UNCW’s hallmarks. The university is guided by “Soar High Together,” a 10-year strategic plan that emphasizes unparalleled opportunities, nationally prominent programs, community commitment, and world-class operations and infrastructure anchoring its future growth.

16th

Best Online Bachelor’s Program Nationally U.S. News & World Report 

19th

“Best for Vets 2023 Colleges”
Military Times

2017-23

Fiske Guide to Colleges Inclusion


TOUR UNCW!

Take a 360-degree tour of each of our 16 universities, either on your desktop, laptop, phone, VR headset, or through the GEAR UP NC VR app. The GEAR UP NC VR app is the first of its kind, and the largest VR project for social good to date. This marks the first time a university system has used the technology across all of its institutions.

Download the GEAR UP VR app from the iTunes store or from the Google Play store.


Highlights

People

UNCW has its eye on issues of local, regional and global relevance. Through its current and future educators, healthcare workers, researchers and entrepreneurs, Seahawks leave their mark.
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Places

Located in the charming coastal city of Wilmington, NC, UNCW’s 650-acre main campus is widely hailed as one of the most attractive in the South. The Georgian-style architecture, blooming azaleas and teal rocking chairs may have something to do with it. UNCW also has waterside facilities at Myrtle Grove and Wrightsville Beach for hands-on research (the view’s not bad either).
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Programs

With more than 280 academic programs from five colleges, UNCW offers study in the fields of nursing, business administration, communication studies, psychology and biology and newer majors in respiratory therapy, digital arts and coastal engineering, among others.
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