UNC Wilmington
Coastal Excellence. Academic Power. Limitless Discovery.
📍 Wilmington, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #196 in United States · THE World #1201 · ARWU #401
Quick Facts about UNC Wilmington
- Type: Public
- Students: 18,848
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $18,091 – $24,435/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Intakes: January, August
About UNC Wilmington
Academics
UNCW provides a powerful academic experience emphasizing creative inquiry, critical thinking, and thoughtful expression. Popular and well-regarded programs include Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences, benefiting from the university's coastal setting. Health sciences programs like Nursing, Public Health, and Exercise Science are also highly sought after. The university's business programs, especially Entrepreneurship and Business Development, are noted for fostering innovation. UNCW also offers well-regarded programs in Creative Writing and Film Studies, leveraging Wilmington's connection to the film industry.
International Students
The Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) at UNCW is dedicated to supporting international students from recruitment through graduation, offering advising on immigration regulations, and facilitating cultural integration. UNCW hosts approximately 265 international students, with significant representation from Japan, China, and India. The university offers an intensive English program through its English Language Center to enhance communication skills. International students can engage in numerous campus clubs and organizations, including the International Student Association, to foster a sense of belonging and community.
Campus & Location
Located in Wilmington, North Carolina, UNCW offers an attractive coastal environment with opportunities for leisure and travel. The campus itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, providing a welcoming atmosphere for students. Wilmington offers a lively city experience with nearby beaches, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. On-campus housing, such as Seahawk Crossing, allows international students to live alongside both international and American students.
Career Outcomes
UNCW demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with approximately 75% working full-time and 14% attending graduate school full-time after graduation. The Career Center offers extensive support, including professional career counseling, job search strategies, and connections to employers. UNCW graduates, on average, earn around $37,000 in their early careers. The university also fosters a strong entrepreneurial spirit through its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), which supports high-impact startups and connects students with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. The CIE offers programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities for students interested in launching their own ventures.
Information for International Students at UNC Wilmington
UNC Wilmington in Wilmington, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for UNC Wilmington
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UNC Wilmington:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 71
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $80
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Fall: April 1, Spring: October 1
Programs at UNC Wilmington (20 programs)
UNC Wilmington offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (11)
- History (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr
Students analyze past events, societies, and cultures, developing research, critical thinking, and communication skills applicable to various fields.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Archivist, Museum Curator, Historian - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr
Students gain foundational knowledge in various business disciplines, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, preparing them for diverse roles in the business world.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr
This program examines social structures, human interactions, and cultural phenomena, fostering an understanding of societal issues and diverse perspectives.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist - Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
The program prepares students to become compassionate and skilled registered nurses, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention across diverse healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Healthcare Administrator - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental principles of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, through lectures and extensive laboratory work.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Pharmacist (with further education) - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical techniques for designing, implementing, and maintaining software and hardware systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr
This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reading, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and language.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
Students develop strong logical reasoning and quantitative skills through the study of algebra, calculus, statistics, and other mathematical disciplines, preparing them for diverse analytical careers.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr · STEM
This program explores the fundamental laws of the universe, from classical mechanics to quantum theory, fostering analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to various scientific and engineering fields.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Data Analyst - Marketing (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,238/yr
This program covers principles of consumer behavior, market research, advertising, and digital marketing, equipping students with skills to develop and execute effective marketing strategies.
Field: Marketing
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Social Media Specialist
Master Programs (6)
- Environmental Studies (MSc) — 24 months · English · $7,582/yr · STEM
An interdisciplinary program focusing on environmental issues, policy, and sustainability, preparing students for careers in environmental management and advocacy.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Manager, Policy Analyst, Conservation Scientist - Marine Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $7,572/yr · STEM
This master's program delves into the biology of marine organisms and ecosystems, offering advanced research opportunities and preparing students for careers in marine science and conservation.
Field: Marine Biology
Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Research Scientist - Educational Leadership (MEd) — 24 months · English · $7,572/yr
The program prepares aspiring and current educational leaders with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage schools and educational organizations, focusing on curriculum, policy, and administration.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, District Administrator, Curriculum Coordinator - Public Administration (MPA) — 24 months · English · $7,572/yr
The MPA program prepares students for leadership and management roles in public and non-profit organizations, focusing on policy analysis, public finance, and organizational behavior.
Field: Public Administration
Career outcomes: City Manager, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Director - Creative Writing (MA) — 24 months · English · $7,572/yr
This program fosters the development of original literary works in various genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, through workshops and critical study.
Field: Creative Writing
Career outcomes: Author, Editor, Journalist, Educator - Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $7,582/yr
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, providing a strategic understanding of business operations, finance, marketing, and global economics.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur
PhD Programs (3)
- Applied Learning and Instruction (PhD) — 60 months · English · $7,572/yr
This program focuses on advanced research and theory in learning processes, instructional design, and educational technology, preparing scholars and practitioners for leadership roles in education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Educational Researcher, Instructional Designer, University Professor - Clinical Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $7,582/yr · STEM
This doctoral program prepares students for careers as licensed clinical psychologists, focusing on advanced research, assessment, and intervention techniques for mental health disorders.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, University Professor - Coastal and Marine System Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $7,582/yr · STEM
An interdisciplinary doctoral program focusing on the complex interactions within coastal and marine environments, addressing issues of climate change, resource management, and ecosystem health.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Environmental Policy Advisor
Scholarships & Tuition at UNC Wilmington
Annual tuition for international students: $18,091 – $24,435/year
✅ UNC Wilmington offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of UNC Wilmington
- National Ranking: #196 in United States
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #401
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at UNC Wilmington
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
- Average class size: 20
Key Highlights
- Coastal location, research focus
- Strong marine, health sciences
- Diverse international student body
- Vibrant campus, city experience
- Well-regarded creative arts programs
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Commission on English Language Program Accreditation
- National Association of Schools of Music, Commission on Accreditation
Notable Alumni
- Brandon Beane
- Brett Blizzard
- Lavonne J. Adams
- John R. Bell, IV
- Devontae Cacok
Frequently Asked Questions about UNC Wilmington
What is UNC Wilmington?
UNC Wilmington is a public university located in Wilmington, United States. It has approximately 18,848 students.
How much does it cost to study at UNC Wilmington?
Tuition fees at UNC Wilmington for international students range from $18,091 – $24,435/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for UNC Wilmington?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 71. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $80. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Fall: April 1, Spring: October 1.
What language are courses taught in at UNC Wilmington?
Courses at UNC Wilmington are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does UNC Wilmington offer?
UNC Wilmington offers 20 programs: 11 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is UNC Wilmington ranked?
#196 in United States · THE World #1201 · ARWU #401.
Does UNC Wilmington offer scholarships?
Yes, UNC Wilmington offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does UNC Wilmington provide visa support?
Yes, UNC Wilmington provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
How Abroadly Helps You Study at UNC Wilmington
Abroadly is an AI-powered platform that manages your entire study abroad journey — not just university search. Here's how we help students applying to UNC Wilmington in United States:
🎯 Phase 1: Exploration & University Matching
Our AI matches you to UNC Wilmington based on your GPA, budget, test scores, and career goals. Compare programs, tuition, scholarships, and admission requirements side-by-side.
📝 Phase 2: Application & SOP Generation
AI generates personalized Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and motivation essays tailored to UNC Wilmington's requirements. Get per-university document checklists and deadline tracking.
✅ Phase 3: Post-Acceptance & Enrollment
Once accepted to UNC Wilmington, Abroadly helps you review offer letters, pay tuition deposits, arrange student housing (available at this university), activate health insurance, and complete enrollment steps.
🛂 Phase 4: Visa Processing & Embassy Prep
Get AI-guided visa document preparation for United States: embassy appointment booking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly (proof of funds), and country-specific document checklists.
✈️ Phase 5: Pre-Departure & Travel
After your visa is approved: banking setup in United States, orientation registration at UNC Wilmington, emergency contact registration, health insurance activation, accommodation confirmation, and travel booking guidance — all tracked in your dashboard.
Apply to UNC Wilmington with Abroadly — University Search to Visa to Landing
Use Abroadly's AI to manage your complete journey to UNC Wilmington: university matching, SOP & cover letter generation, application tracking, visa processing, embassy interview prep, and pre-departure planning — all in one platform.
What you get: AI-generated SOPs, per-university document checklists, embassy appointment tracking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly, pre-departure checklists, and 24/7 AI advisor support.
Explore All Features | For Students | For Agencies | Pricing