The Best Finance Programs in North Carolina for 2026
The best finance programs in North Carolina are the accredited schools that graduate their students and charge honestly for it, not the ones with the biggest name. Hakia analyzed 17 business programs in North Carolina on graduation rate, selectivity, cost, and outcomes to rank where a bachelor's in finance actually pays off. In-state tuition among the 17 ranked programs in North Carolina runs from $1,000 to $66,470 a year, a $65,470 spread for the same credential.
Wake Forest University tops the list with a 95.6 Hakia Score on an 89% graduation rate, at $66,470 a year in-state. Across all 17 ranked schools, the average graduation rate is 61%, ranging from 38% to 89%. The national median pay in the field is $88,870 a year per the BLS, the same benchmark every ranked school here feeds into regardless of tuition paid.
Below is the full ranked table, followed by a school-by-school look at every ranked program and what actually separates them: cost, completion, selectivity, and where the degree leads. Every figure is drawn from federal IPEDS and BLS data, and no school pays for placement.
Key Takeaways on the Best Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
- Wake Forest University ranks first among North Carolina's finance programs with a 95.6 Hakia Score and an 89% graduation rate.
- In-state tuition across the 17 ranked North Carolina programs spans $1,000 to $66,470 a year, a $65,470 gap for the same bachelor's in finance.
- The 17 ranked North Carolina programs graduate 61% of students on average, from 38% to 89%.
- 7 of the 17 ranked schools are public, where the in-state rate drives the lowest cost for North Carolina residents.
- 4 of the 17 offer a confirmed online option for students who cannot relocate.
- National median pay in the field is $88,870 (BLS), the benchmark every ranked North Carolina program feeds into regardless of tuition.
Hakia analyzed 17 accredited programs in North Carolina reported to IPEDS, scoring each on graduation rate, selectivity, in-state cost, and outcomes. No school is rewarded for sticker price alone, and none pays for inclusion.
The 17 Best Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina, Ranked for 2026
| # | Program | Type | In-state tuition | Grad rate | Admit rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem, NC | Nonprofit | $66,470 | 89% | 22% | 95.6 |
| 2 | Elon UniversityElon, NC | Nonprofit | $46,451 | 84% | 66% | 88.7 |
| 3 | High Point UniversityHigh Point, NC | Nonprofit | $39,714 | 74% | 75% | 84.1 |
| 4 | University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte, NC | Public | $3,812 | 69% | 80% | 82.7 |
| 5 | Queens University of CharlotteCharlotte, NC | Nonprofit | $43,200 | 61% | 62% | 81.1 |
| 6 | North Carolina A & T State UniversityGreensboro, NC | Public | $3,540 | 57% | 50% | 80.4 |
| 7 | Appalachian State UniversityBoone, NC | Public | $4,242 | 75% | 90% | 79.6 |
| 8 | East Carolina UniversityGreenville, NC · online option | Public | $4,452 | 63% | 89% | 76.4 |
| 9 | Western Carolina UniversityCullowhee, NC · online option | Public | $1,000 | 60% | 82% | 73.1 |
| 10 | University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro, NC · online option | Public | $4,422 | 56% | 89% | 72.2 |
| 11 | Campbell UniversityBuies Creek, NC | Nonprofit | $38,880 | 61% | 87% | 71.5 |
| 12 | Gardner-Webb UniversityBoiling Springs, NC · online option | Nonprofit | $33,770 | 55% | 77% | 70.1 |
| 13 | University of Mount OliveMount Olive, NC | Nonprofit | $26,216 | 52% | 76% | 69.4 |
| 14 | Belmont Abbey CollegeBelmont, NC | Nonprofit | $19,500 | 47% | 75% | 66.2 |
| 15 | Lenoir-Rhyne UniversityHickory, NC | Nonprofit | $31,000 | 48% | 85% | 63.3 |
| 16 | Fayetteville State UniversityFayetteville, NC | Public | $1,000 | 38% | 82% | 61.7 |
| 17 | Wingate UniversityWingate, NC | Nonprofit | $42,256 | 46% | 91% | 61.4 |
Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina, Compared by Score
Each program scores 0 to 100 on the Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. Longer bars rank higher.
A Closer Look at the Top Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 89%
- Admit rate
- 22%
- In-state
- $66,470
- Out-of-state
- $66,470
Wake Forest University graduates 89% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on a 95.6 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 95.6, #1 of 17
- 89% graduation rate
- $66,470 tuition
- Most selective program here
Wake Forest University is a private, nonprofit institution in Winston-Salem, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #1 of the 17 analyzed here with a 95.6 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That is the highest score in the ranking, well above the 75.1 group average. The program graduates 89% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. Wake Forest University admits 22% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. Its completion rate lands among the strongest in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%. The university enrolls 9,322 students overall.
On cost, Wake Forest University charges $66,470 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $265,880 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is above-average completion paired with genuine selectivity.
Elon University
Elon, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 84%
- Admit rate
- 66%
- In-state
- $46,451
- Out-of-state
- $46,451
Elon University graduates 84% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on an 88.7 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 88.7, #2 of 17
- 84% graduation rate
- $46,451 tuition
- Admits just 66% of applicants
Based in Elon, NC, Elon University is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #2 of the 17 ranked here, earning an 88.7 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the top third of the 17 ranked programs, 6.9 points behind top-ranked Wake Forest University. The program graduates 84% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. Elon University admits 66% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands among the strongest in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Elon University charges $46,451 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $185,804 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is above-average completion paired with genuine selectivity.
High Point University
High Point, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 74%
- Admit rate
- 75%
- In-state
- $39,714
- Out-of-state
- $39,714
High Point University graduates 74% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on an 84.1 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 84.1, #3 of 17
- 74% graduation rate
- $39,714 tuition
- Admits just 75% of applicants
Based in High Point, NC, High Point University is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #3 of the 17 ranked here, earning an 84.1 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the top third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 74% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. High Point University admits 75% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands among the strongest in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, High Point University charges $39,714 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $158,856 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is above-average completion paired with genuine selectivity.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC · Public
- Grad rate
- 69%
- Admit rate
- 80%
- In-state
- $3,812
- Out-of-state
- $19,065
At $3,812 a year in-state, University of North Carolina at Charlotte is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding an 82.7 Hakia Score on a 69% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 82.7, #4 of 17
- 69% graduation rate
- $3,812 in-state vs $19,065 out-of-state
- Largest campus in this ranking
Based in Charlotte, NC, University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a public institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #4 of the 17 ranked here, earning an 82.7 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the top third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 69% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. University of North Carolina at Charlotte admits 80% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list.
On cost, University of North Carolina at Charlotte charges $3,812 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $19,065 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $15,248 in tuition for residents, against $76,260 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is low in-state cost paired with above-average completion.
Queens University of Charlotte
Charlotte, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 61%
- Admit rate
- 62%
- In-state
- $43,200
- Out-of-state
- $43,200
Queens University of Charlotte graduates 61% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on an 81.1 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 81.1, #5 of 17
- 61% graduation rate
- $43,200 tuition
- Admits just 62% of applicants
Based in Charlotte, NC, Queens University of Charlotte is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #5 of the 17 ranked here, earning an 81.1 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the top third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 61% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. Queens University of Charlotte admits 62% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands in the middle of the pack in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Queens University of Charlotte charges $43,200 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $172,800 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is above-average completion paired with genuine selectivity.
North Carolina A & T State University
Greensboro, NC · Public
- Grad rate
- 57%
- Admit rate
- 50%
- In-state
- $3,540
- Out-of-state
- $17,400
At $3,540 a year in-state, North Carolina A & T State University is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding an 80.4 Hakia Score on a 57% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 80.4, #6 of 17
- 57% graduation rate
- $3,540 in-state vs $17,400 out-of-state
- Admits just 50% of applicants
Based in Greensboro, NC, North Carolina A & T State University is a public institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #6 of the 17 ranked here, earning an 80.4 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 57% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. North Carolina A & T State University admits 50% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list.
On cost, North Carolina A & T State University charges $3,540 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $17,400 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $14,160 in tuition for residents, against $69,600 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is low in-state cost paired with genuine selectivity.
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC · Public
- Grad rate
- 75%
- Admit rate
- 90%
- In-state
- $4,242
- Out-of-state
- $21,875
At $4,242 a year in-state, Appalachian State University is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding a 79.6 Hakia Score on a 75% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 79.6, #7 of 17
- 75% graduation rate
- $4,242 in-state vs $21,875 out-of-state
- Admits just 90% of applicants
Appalachian State University is a public institution in Boone, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #7 of the 17 analyzed here with a 79.6 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 75% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. Appalachian State University admits 90% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands among the strongest in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Appalachian State University charges $4,242 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $21,875 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $16,968 in tuition for residents, against $87,500 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is low in-state cost paired with above-average completion.
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC · Public · online option
- Grad rate
- 63%
- Admit rate
- 89%
- In-state
- $4,452
- Out-of-state
- $20,729
East Carolina University graduates 63% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on a 76.4 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 76.4, #8 of 17
- 63% graduation rate
- $4,452 in-state vs $20,729 out-of-state
- Online option available
Based in Greenville, NC, East Carolina University is a public institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #8 of the 17 ranked here, earning a 76.4 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits above the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 63% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. East Carolina University admits 89% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands in the middle of the pack in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, East Carolina University charges $4,452 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $20,729 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $17,808 in tuition for residents, against $82,916 for non-residents. That puts it mid-pack on price on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. The spread makes the program a clearer value for NC residents than for out-of-state students. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is above-average completion paired with an online option.
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC · Public · online option
- Grad rate
- 60%
- Admit rate
- 82%
- In-state
- $1,000
- Out-of-state
- $5,000
At $1,000 a year in-state, Western Carolina University is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding a 73.1 Hakia Score on a 60% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 73.1, #9 of 17
- 60% graduation rate
- $1,000 in-state vs $5,000 out-of-state
- Lowest in-state tuition here
Western Carolina University is a public institution in Cullowhee, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #9 of the 17 analyzed here with a 73.1 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 60% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Western Carolina University admits 82% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands in the middle of the pack in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Western Carolina University charges $1,000 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $5,000 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $4,000 in tuition for residents, against $20,000 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is low in-state cost paired with an online option.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC · Public · online option
- Grad rate
- 56%
- Admit rate
- 89%
- In-state
- $4,422
- Out-of-state
- $20,773
At $4,422 a year in-state, University of North Carolina at Greensboro is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding a 72.2 Hakia Score on a 56% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 72.2, #10 of 17
- 56% graduation rate
- $4,422 in-state vs $20,773 out-of-state
- Online option available
Based in Greensboro, NC, University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #10 of the 17 ranked here, earning a 72.2 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 56% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. University of North Carolina at Greensboro admits 89% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list.
On cost, University of North Carolina at Greensboro charges $4,422 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $20,773 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $17,688 in tuition for residents, against $83,092 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the draw here is low in-state cost paired with an online option.
Campbell University
Buies Creek, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 61%
- Admit rate
- 87%
- In-state
- $38,880
- Out-of-state
- $38,880
Campbell University graduates 61% of its students, above the 61% average across this ranking, on a 71.5 Hakia Score.
- Hakia Score 71.5, #11 of 17
- 61% graduation rate
- $38,880 tuition
- Admits just 87% of applicants
Based in Buies Creek, NC, Campbell University is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #11 of the 17 ranked here, earning a 71.5 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the middle third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 61% of its students, above the 61% average across the ranked schools. Campbell University admits 87% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands in the middle of the pack in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Campbell University charges $38,880 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $155,520 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the main draw here is its above-average completion.
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC · Nonprofit · online option
- Grad rate
- 55%
- Admit rate
- 77%
- In-state
- $33,770
- Out-of-state
- $33,770
Gardner-Webb University ranks #12 of the 17 bachelor's in finance programs in this analysis, with a 70.1 Hakia Score and a 55% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 70.1, #12 of 17
- 55% graduation rate
- $33,770 tuition
- Online option available
Based in Boiling Springs, NC, Gardner-Webb University is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #12 of the 17 ranked here, earning a 70.1 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 55% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Gardner-Webb University admits 77% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Gardner-Webb University charges $33,770 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $135,080 in tuition. That puts it mid-pack on price on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the main draw here is its an online option.
University of Mount Olive
Mount Olive, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 52%
- Admit rate
- 76%
- In-state
- $26,216
- Out-of-state
- $26,216
University of Mount Olive ranks #13 of the 17 bachelor's in finance programs in this analysis, with a 69.4 Hakia Score and a 52% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 69.4, #13 of 17
- 52% graduation rate
- $26,216 tuition
- Admits just 76% of applicants
University of Mount Olive is a private, nonprofit institution in Mount Olive, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #13 of the 17 analyzed here with a 69.4 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 52% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. University of Mount Olive admits 76% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, University of Mount Olive charges $26,216 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $104,864 in tuition. That puts it mid-pack on price on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. It earns its place in the top 17 on the balance of cost, completion, and outcomes.
Belmont Abbey College
Belmont, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 47%
- Admit rate
- 75%
- In-state
- $19,500
- Out-of-state
- $19,500
Belmont Abbey College ranks #14 of the 17 bachelor's in finance programs in this analysis, with a 66.2 Hakia Score and a 47% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 66.2, #14 of 17
- 47% graduation rate
- $19,500 tuition
- Smallest campus in this ranking
Belmont Abbey College is a private, nonprofit institution in Belmont, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #14 of the 17 analyzed here with a 66.2 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 47% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Belmont Abbey College admits 75% of applicants, more selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Belmont Abbey College charges $19,500 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $78,000 in tuition. That puts it mid-pack on price on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the main draw here is its genuine selectivity.
Lenoir-Rhyne University
Hickory, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 48%
- Admit rate
- 85%
- In-state
- $31,000
- Out-of-state
- $31,000
Lenoir-Rhyne University ranks #15 of the 17 bachelor's in finance programs in this analysis, with a 63.3 Hakia Score and a 48% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 63.3, #15 of 17
- 48% graduation rate
- $31,000 tuition
- Admits just 85% of applicants
Based in Hickory, NC, Lenoir-Rhyne University is a private, nonprofit institution. Its Bachelor's in Finance program lands at #15 of the 17 ranked here, earning a 63.3 Hakia Score that weighs graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 48% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Lenoir-Rhyne University admits 85% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Lenoir-Rhyne University charges $31,000 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $124,000 in tuition. That puts it mid-pack on price on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. It earns its place in the top 17 on the balance of cost, completion, and outcomes.
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC · Public
- Grad rate
- 38%
- Admit rate
- 82%
- In-state
- $1,000
- Out-of-state
- $5,000
At $1,000 a year in-state, Fayetteville State University is among the more affordable bachelor's in finance programs ranked here, holding a 61.7 Hakia Score on a 38% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 61.7, #16 of 17
- 38% graduation rate
- $1,000 in-state vs $5,000 out-of-state
- Admits just 82% of applicants
Fayetteville State University is a public institution in Fayetteville, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #16 of the 17 analyzed here with a 61.7 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 38% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Fayetteville State University admits 82% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Fayetteville State University charges $1,000 a year in-state, roughly 5x the $5,000 out-of-state rate. Over four years that is about $4,000 in tuition for residents, against $20,000 for non-residents. That puts it among the most affordable on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. For prospective students, the main draw here is its low in-state cost.
Wingate University
Wingate, NC · Nonprofit
- Grad rate
- 46%
- Admit rate
- 91%
- In-state
- $42,256
- Out-of-state
- $42,256
Wingate University ranks #17 of the 17 bachelor's in finance programs in this analysis, with a 61.4 Hakia Score and a 46% graduation rate.
- Hakia Score 61.4, #17 of 17
- 46% graduation rate
- $42,256 tuition
- Admits just 91% of applicants
Wingate University is a private, nonprofit institution in Wingate, NC. Its Bachelor's in Finance program ranks #17 of the 17 analyzed here with a 61.4 Hakia Score, a composite of graduation rate, cost, selectivity, and graduate outcomes. That sits below the 75.1 group average, in the lower third of the 17 ranked programs. The program graduates 46% of its students, below the 61% average across the ranked schools. Wingate University admits 91% of applicants, less selective than the 75% average for the group. That is more open than the 22% rate at Wake Forest University, the most selective program on this list. Its completion rate lands toward the lower end in a group where graduation runs from 38% to 89%.
On cost, Wingate University charges $42,256 a year in-state. Over four years that totals about $169,024 in tuition. That puts it at the higher end on this list, where annual in-state tuition runs from $1,000 at Western Carolina University to $66,470 at Wake Forest University. As a private institution, its tuition does not change with residency, unlike the public universities on this list. Graduates step into a field with an $88,870 national median salary reported by the BLS. It earns its place in the top 17 on the balance of cost, completion, and outcomes.
What a Bachelor's in Finance Costs in North Carolina
In-state tuition among the 17 ranked finance programs in North Carolina runs from $1,000 to $66,470 a year. Western Carolina University anchors the low end at $1,000, while Wake Forest University sits at the top at $66,470. At public schools that in-state figure is the resident rate; out-of-state students routinely pay two to three times as much, which can reorder this list entirely for anyone moving in from elsewhere.
Run the four-year math and the gap widens: about $4,000 in tuition at the low end against roughly $265,880 at the high end for the same bachelor's in finance. Against the national median of $88,870 a year, the cheaper degree pays its tuition back far faster.
A higher price does not automatically buy a stronger degree. Weigh each school's graduation rate and net price, not just its sticker tuition, and use its net price calculator for your own situation before comparing.
Accreditation and Value: What to Check First
Every school ranked here is accredited and reports to the federal IPEDS system, so the Hakia Score never rewards an unaccredited program for being cheap or convenient. Accreditation is what makes a finance degree count with employers, licensing boards, and other schools, so confirm it on the program's own page before enrolling, not after.
Low tuition only pays off when the degree finishes and counts. That is why this ranking weighs completion alongside cost: a cheap program that graduates a fraction of its students is not a bargain. Where a field carries programmatic accreditation on top of institutional accreditation, look for it too.
Online Finance Options in North Carolina
4 of the 17 ranked North Carolina programs offer a confirmed online or distance-education option, which widens access for working students who cannot relocate. An accredited online finance degree carries the same standing as its on-campus version, since accreditation attaches to the program and school, not the delivery format.
What changes online is flexibility, not the credential. Before committing, confirm whether courses are self-paced, whether any on-campus intensives are required, and whether the online section charges the in-state rate to every student, which can erase the residency discount that makes a nearby public so cheap.
Finance Careers and Pay After a North Carolina Program
Every degree on this list points toward the same national labor market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics puts national median pay in the field at $88,870 a year, a figure that applies across the profession rather than to any single school here, and it holds whether a graduate paid $1,000 or $66,470 a year in tuition. That is the core tradeoff this ranking is built to expose: a higher price does not buy a higher starting salary in the federal wage data.
Full occupational detail, including job-growth projections and state-level wage breakdowns, is published by the BLS. Graduates of any ranked North Carolina program compete in that same national pay structure.
Common Questions About Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
What is the best finance bachelor's degree in North Carolina?
By Hakia Score, Wake Forest University ranks first among the 17 finance programs in North Carolina we analyzed, with a 95.6 score and an 89% graduation rate. The score weighs graduation rate, selectivity, in-state cost, and outcomes, so the top school balances all four rather than winning on any one.
How much does a finance bachelor's degree cost in North Carolina?
In-state tuition among the ranked North Carolina programs runs from $1,000 to $66,470 a year. These are resident rates at public schools; out-of-state students pay more, so confirm your residency status and check the out-of-state column before comparing.
Is an online finance bachelor's degree respected by employers?
Yes, when the school is accredited. An accredited online degree lists the same on a transcript as the on-campus version, and accreditation, not delivery format, is what protects the credential. Every program ranked here is accredited and reporting to the federal IPEDS system.
What salary can graduates expect?
The BLS reports a national median of $88,870 a year for the field. That is a national benchmark, not an North Carolina-specific figure or a promised outcome for any single school, but it is the number every tuition dollar on this page should be measured against.
Our Methodology for Ranking Finance Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
Every program earns a Hakia Score from 0 to 100, built only from federal data (IPEDS, the U.S. Department of Education, and BLS) and scored against its true peers: programs in the same field at the same degree level. No reputation surveys, no pay-to-play. Here is how the score is weighted:
- Outcomes44%
Graduation rate (26%) and real per-school graduate earnings (18%). Does the program get students to the finish line, and where do they land?
- Selectivity & academics38%
Admissions selectivity (24%) and the academic profile of admitted students (14%).
- Scale & value18%
Enrollment (7%), cost-to-earnings value (6%), and the number of graduates a program produces (5%).
Weights renormalize over the data each program actually reports, so a school missing a metric (many open-access colleges do not publish entrance scores or earnings) is never penalized for it. Scores are percentiles within the peer group, curved to a 0-to-100 scale. What the score does not measure: individual instructor quality, specific course content, or campus culture. Verify those directly with the program.