University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC

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Quick Facts

“Discere Aude”("Dare to Learn")

Public research university

Type

14,176

Total Students

15,254

Undergrad

3,594

Graduate

$178M

Endowment

(2025)

$7K

Tuition (In-State)

$23K

Tuition (Out-State)

$19K

Avg Net Price

74%

Acceptance Rate

71%

Graduation Rate

6-year

85%

Retention Rate

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of North Carolina Wilmington

Dive into discovery at UNCW: Where coastal living meets high-impact research.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) stands as a vibrant public research university nestled in the coastal city of Wilmington, North Carolina. Known for its "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" classification, UNCW inspires students to "Discere Aude" – Dare to Learn. This blend of rigorous academics within an engaging coastal environment offers a unique educational journey for aspiring scholars and professionals.

UNCW's rich history began on September 4, 1947, as Wilmington College, initially a junior college primarily serving World War II veterans. Its evolution reflects a steadfast commitment to expanding educational opportunities. The institution transformed into a four-year liberal arts college in 1963 and proudly gained university status in 1969, becoming the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a vital part of the esteemed University of North Carolina system.

Today, UNCW thrives as an academic powerhouse, with a robust student body of over 18,848 (Fall 2024), including a significant graduate presence. Its R2 research classification underscores a dedication to impactful discovery, particularly evident through specialized facilities like the Center for Marine Science. Students at UNCW benefit from a dynamic learning environment where theoretical knowledge meets hands-on research, preparing them for success in a wide array of fields while enjoying a spirited campus life in a beautiful setting.

Key Highlights

✦Designated "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
✦Enrolls 18,848 students (Fall 2024), including 15,254 undergraduates and 3,594 postgraduates.
✦Part of the prestigious University of North Carolina system.
✦Motto: "Discere Aude" (Latin for "Dare to Learn"), reflecting a commitment to intellectual curiosity.
✦Features a dedicated Center for Marine Science, leveraging its unique coastal location.
✦Campus spans 661 acres in a vibrant midsize city, offering a dynamic student experience.
✦Endowment stands at $178.4 million (2025), supporting academic and research initiatives.

Timeline

1947

Opened as Wilmington College, a junior college primarily for WWII veterans.

1948

Earned accreditation from the North Carolina College Conference.

1952

Received further accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

1958

Placed under the Community College Act, becoming a state-supported college.

1963

Transformed into a four-year liberal arts college, authorized to award bachelor's degrees.

1969

Elevated to university status, renamed University of North Carolina Wilmington, and became the fifth campus of the UNC system.

1977

Authorized to offer its first graduate programs at the master's level.

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