University of North Carolina Asheville
The Vibe Check
UNC Asheville feels like a close-knit community nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where students prioritize collaboration over competition. The vibe is artistically inclined and environmentally conscious, with a laid-back pace that encourages deep thinking and outdoor exploration. It's a place where you'll know your professors by name and your classmates by face.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The university excels in liberal arts and sciences, with top-ranked programs in visual arts, psychology, and environmental studies. Classes are small, fostering direct mentorship and discussion-based learning with accessible faculty. Research opportunities are abundant through the Undergraduate Research Program, allowing students to present at regional and national conferences.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Asheville
Asheville is a vibrant, artsy city known for its thriving craft beer scene, live music, and eclectic downtown. Students enjoy hiking the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, exploring the River Arts District, and frequenting local cafes and music venues. The city's progressive culture provides a welcoming environment for diverse students.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,030):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UNC Asheville has a generally safe campus with a dedicated University Police department and well-lit pathways. The surrounding city of Asheville is considered safe for a city of its size, though standard urban precautions are advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime location in Asheville with access to outdoor recreation and a vibrant arts scene.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Strong undergraduate research programs across sciences and humanities.
- ✓ Affordable tuition for in-state students compared to other universities.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (56.8%) and retention rate (73.4%) suggest student attrition challenges.
- ✗ Limited campus size and resources compared to larger flagship universities.
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is high relative to the public school median.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UNC Asheville is known for its strengths in liberal arts, visual and performing arts, and environmental science. It is a public liberal arts university that emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and sustainability, situated in a city famous for its arts culture and natural beauty. The university is also recognized for its undergraduate research opportunities.
No, it is not considered highly selective with a high acceptance rate of 93.89%. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1247, and they look for students with a solid academic record and a GPA typically above 3.0. Admissions are holistic, but the open admission policy for qualified students makes it accessible.
Campus life is intimate and community-oriented due to the small enrollment of 2,790 students. Students are heavily involved in outdoor activities, arts, and sustainability initiatives, often engaging with the wider Asheville community. While Greek life is present, the social scene is more focused on local events, hiking, and student-led clubs.
For in-state students, yes, the ROI is strong due to low tuition and median earnings of $44,030. For out-of-state students, the value is less clear due to higher tuition costs (over $24k), requiring careful financial planning. The degree is valuable for careers in the arts, non-profits, and environmental sectors, especially given the location.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 3,271
- In-State Tuition $7,461
- Out-of-State $24,809
- Zip Code 28804
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the value is exceptional with a net price of $12,865 and low tuition of $7,461. Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher at $24,809, making the return on investment ($44,030 10-year median earnings) more modest compared to private peers. The 31.3% Pell Grant rate indicates strong financial aid support for low-income students, making it accessible for many.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.