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Facts & Rankings

Top 4% of U.S. Research Institutions

With $92 million in research funding and a culture of collaboration, Charlotte ranks among the top 4% of U.S. research institutions. Graduate students at all levels lead and contribute to hands-on research in fields like bioinformatics, chemistry, health sciences, education, engineering and more — solving real-world challenges from day one.

UNC Charlotte Graduate School Rankings

Charlotte’s graduate programs continue to rise in national rankings, driven by a strong commitment to innovation, research and real-world graduate education that keeps moving forward.

20+
Top 100 Graduate Programs
Charlotte holds more than 20 top-100 rankings across U.S. News categories — including business, education, nursing, public administration and computer science.
#21
Special Education Programs
Charlotte’s Special Education program debuted in the national rankings at No. 20 — a reflection of its excellence in preparing today’s educators.
#1
Part-Time MBA in NC
Charlotte’s part-time MBA leads public universities in North Carolina and ranks in the top 20% of programs across the country.
Top 25
Public Affairs Concentrations
Charlotte’s Public Affairs program ranks No. 49, with specialties in local government (No. 21), public finance (No. 23) and nonprofit management (No. 24).

Understand the Cost, Plan with Confidence

Graduate school is an investment — and we’re here to make it easier to plan for. With transparent tuition, flexible options and tools to help you estimate your costs, you can build a path that fits your goals and your budget.

Graduate Students by the Numbers

Charlotte's graduate community provides a thriving and multifaceted environment, welcoming students from around the world. Your graduate education will offer flexible paths to help you achieve your academic goals and provide comprehensive resources to support you throughout your journey.

64
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
Charlotte’s global graduate community brings together students from over 60 countries, drawn by top-tier academics, research opportunities & career outcomes that exceed national averages.
6,200+
GRADUATE STUDENTS AND GROWING
With over 6,200 graduate students across 150+ programs, Charlotte’s grad community reflects the energy and diversity of the city we call home — bringing together learners from across the U.S. and around the world.
75%
OF STUDENTS
receive financial aid through scholarships, grants, loans or student employment.

Charlotte Joins the Nation’s Top Research Universities

With its new Carnegie R1 classification, UNC Charlotte joins the ranks of Duke, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State as one of the nation’s top research universities. At the center of groundbreaking work — from cancer biology to cybersecurity — Charlotte gives graduate students access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge labs and funded opportunities that turn big ideas into real-world impact.

A Global Launchpad for Graduate Success

Ranked No. 27 nationally — and No. 1 in the Carolinas — for international student career outcomes, Charlotte prepares graduate students for what’s next. With industry-connected programs and an average salary 22% above the national average for OPT participants (Optional Practical Training), our grads launch careers in top U.S. markets and beyond.