A local North Carolina university has earned national recognition in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report best online program rankings.
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) ranks among the top five historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the nation for its online bachelor’s degree programs, coming in at No. 2. In North Carolina, the university was ranked No. 9 among other colleges and universities for its program and No. 2 for HBCUs in our state.
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“This recognition highlights NCCU’s promise to provide high-quality, accessible online education that meets the needs of the modern student,” said Kimberly Phifer-McGhee, Ed.D., associate vice chancellor for extended studies and student support.
The university's online Bachelor’s in Business Administration program stood out ranking No. 6 in North Carolina, No. 2 among state HBCUs and No. 3 HBCUs nationwide. For veterans, the NCCU online bachelor’s program secured the No. 5 spot in North Carolina, the No. 2 spot for state HBCUs and the No. 2 spot among HBCUs nationwide.
"Our faculty and staff ensure that all students—whether they’re starting college for the first time, working while studying or serving in the military—have the tools and support they need for their purpose to take flight,” Phifer-McGhee continued.
The rankings were based on key factors including student engagement, faculty credentials and technology resources. The university released its record-breaking enrollment growth last September, with enrollment among adult learners and military-affiliated students increasing by 13% and 36%.
The data also found NCCUs online enrollment grew by 24% this academic year with 16% of students earning their degree remotely. The university has a wide range of online bachelor’s programs including criminal justice and nursing.
Many of the programs are supported by Project Kitty Hawk, an ed-tech initiative that helps universities better serve adult learners. Through this partnership, NCCU was the first university in the UNC System to launch an online degree program.
A full list of the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Program rankings can be found online.