About UNCW

aerial shot of campus

Our Mission

The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching and mentoring with research and service.  Our commitment to student engagement, creative inquiry, critical thinking, thoughtful expression, and responsible citizenship is expressed in our baccalaureate and masters’ programs, as well as doctoral programs in areas of expertise that serve state needs.  Our culture reflects our values of diversity and globalization, ethics and integrity, and excellence and innovation.

SACSCOC Accredited

The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of UNCW may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Vision 

UNCW will be recognized for excellence in everything it does, for its global mindset and for its community engagement.

Values

Excellence Diversity
 Integrity
Student-Centered Focus Community Engagement Innovation

Strategic Priorities

  • Attract and retain high-quality, diverse students, faculty and staff; ensure an inclusive campus culture and a global mindset; and increase retention and graduation rates.
  • Enhance learning experiences and educational programs; and advance research and scholarly activities.
  • Enable and nurture a sense of a student-centered community by enhancing academic advising and student support programs for career placement and graduate school.
  • Organize for success, engage with our community and the world, and communicate our efforts broadly and effectively.
  • Fund strategic initiatives by building on strong relationships with all stakeholders.

These priorities will be pursued in an environment that promotes the free exchange of thoughts and opinions, where human dignity is affirmed and respect for each individual is paramount.