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Get to Know UNCW

UNCW is a large public institution with a private feel – and the view’s pretty great, too. The learning, the service, the research, the camaraderie, the campus…come be a part of it all!

Here at the state’s coastal university, you’ll enjoy a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry, critical thinking and thoughtful expression in a beautiful campus setting.

Located just minutes from the beach, Wilmington, North Carolina has a vibrant culture that celebrates the arts, film and music, and a host of campus/community connections to ensure you find where you belong both on and off campus.

Seahawk Pride

  • UNCW is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research and service.
  • A public institution with approximately 18,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in areas of expertise that serve state needs.
  • In 2019, UNCW became the first university in the nation to offer a B.S. in coastal engineering.
  • UNCW offers family-friendly arts activities, summer camps and lifelong learning opportunities to Seahawks of all ages.
  • Trask Coliseum serves as the home floor for UNCW men’s and women’s basketball teams. The versatile space seats more than 5,000 and is used for commencement ceremonies and other events. The venue has hosted visits from Maya Angelou, Magic Johnson and former President Barack Obama, among others.
  • The 10-acre Herbert Bluethenthal Memorial Wildflower Preserve offers multiple trails lined with cypress, pine, red maple and sweetgum trees. The natural area provides opportunities for scientific study and quiet reflection.
Class of 2027 form the number 27 in the recreational fields on campus

Class Of 2027

Freshmen gathered on the campus recreation field for their class portrait during Welcome Week.

Our Mission, Vision & Values Explore transformative experiences at UNCW through our commitment to student engagement, creative inquiry, critical thinking, thoughtful expression and civic responsibility. Learn more
Rankings & Recognition Did you know UNCW is ranked among the best online bachelor’s programs and graduate schools nationally by U.S. News & World Report? We are consistently recognized among the top public national universities in the country. Check it out
History & Traditions Today’s Seahawks are honored to build on the legacy of excellence established by generations of students, faculty, staff, leaders, alumni and friends of the university. Step back in time
Our Campus Georgian-style architecture and beautiful landscaping make UNCW one of the most attractive college campuses in the South. The 650-acre campus has gathering areas interspersed throughout the many natural areas on campus. Enjoy the view
Points of Pride National rankings, out-of-this-world research, world-class faculty and powerful learning experiences – Seahawks have many reasons to be proud of their university. Here’s a quick look at what sets us apart. Wings up
Institutional Data & Assessment Data are one of the most important assets that we maintain. We foster and ensure a culture of continuous improvement, data informed decisions and accreditation compliance. Institutional Data & Assessment
Seahawk statue at the front of campus at dusk

Seahawk Respect Compact

Our ongoing efforts to increase access to and inclusion in a community that nurtures learning and growth for all.

Seahawk Respect Compact

Accreditation

UNCW is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees.
Accreditation at UNCW

At A Glance

Fall 2023

  • Total Enrollment: 17,987
  • Undergraduate: 14,494
  • Graduate: 3,493
  • First Year: 2,701

Sources: UNCW Office of Institutional Research and Planning, UNC System Fact Sheets. Updated April 2024.

  • Average SAT*: 1291
  • Average ACT*: 26
  • ACT Composite Range: 24-28
  • Average High School GPA: 4.06
  • Female: 67%
  • Male: 33%
  • Ethnic Diversity: 18%
  • Out-of-State: 23%
  • North Carolina: 77%
  • 7-county SE North Carolina region: 11%
  • International: 19 countries

All figures are current for fall 2023.

Sources: UNCW Office of Institutional Research and Planning, UNC System Fact Sheets. Updated April 2024.

*2023 was a test-optional year for students

  • Bachelor’s: 59
  • Bachelor's/Master's Combo: 16
  • Master's Dual Degrees: 4
  • Master’s: 37
  • Doctoral: 5

Note: UNCW's 6th doctoral degree, Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, is scheduled to launch in fall 2023, pending final approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

  • 6-Year Graduation Rate, Fall 2017 cohort (graduating from any U.S. institution): 70.7%
  • Retention Rate: 85%

Source: IRP

In-State

  • Tuition and Fees: $7,317
  • Room and Board: $12,605

Out-of-State

  • Tuition and Fees: $22,890
  • Room and Board: $12,605

*2023-24 undergraduate expenses

Sources: UNCW Office of Financial Aid (required fees, room and board)

  • Faculty: 778
  • Staff: 1,531

Source: IRP

  • Annual Budget: $390,101,359
  • State Appropriation: $192,468,360
  • University Endowments: $147,657,266
  • UNCW Foundation Endowments: $6,468,169

Source: UNCW Business Affairs

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