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Studying a Postgrad Program in North Carolina
The southeastern US state of North Carolina has the ninth largest population in the United States with a population of approximately 10 million people. A large proportion of these residents live in the big cities. The capital city of North Carolina is Raleigh, although the largest city is Charlotte. North Carolina borders the Atlantic Ocean and features beautiful beaches and the opportunity for amazing weekend breaks. It is bordered by Georgia and South Carolina on the south side, Tennessee on the west side and Virginia on the north side.
Where can you study a postgrad program in North Carolina?
North Carolina is an excellent location to continue your postgrad studies. Famed for its research contributions in fields such as finance, biotechnology and engineering, studying at a university in this mountainous, sub-tropical state will enable you to reach your career goals and prepare you for the wider world of work and further academia.
There are plenty of universities and colleges to choose from in North Carolina. In the University of North Carolina system, 17 institutions can be found, including North Carolina State University.
North Carolina State University: This university has with the largest enrolment within the University of North Carolina system, with approximately 34,000 students. North Carolina State University is a university of public research and forms a research triangle with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University in Durham.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: This is the oldest university in North Carolina. It was chartered in 1789 and is one of three universities claimed to be the oldest public university in the United States, its accurate claim being that it was the first university in the whole of the United States to graduate a class.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte: The University of North Carolina at Charlotte consists of nine colleges offering PhDs and masters in a huge range of subjects. It is a public research university located across three campuses and in the Charlotte region it's the largest institution of higher education.
If you are looking for something different, there are 18 private liberal arts colleges to be found in North Carolina. One such college is Salem College, an all-female institution with a long history, offering masters in teaching or education. Although it is a female institution, male students can be admitted over the age of 23. Greensboro College is another such college offering masters degrees in teaching and education, and is associated with the United Methodist Church.
There are also 40 private colleges and universities in North Carolina to choose from, offering an enormous variety of subjects, for example Duke University is an innovative private research university.
Tuition fees & living costs in North Carolina
Tuition fees and living costs in North Carolina vary from college to college, but as an overall guide, the tuition fees for in-state students is around $7,365 and for out-state students is $15,505 per annum.
The cost of living in North Carolina ranges from between $10,000 and $14,000 depending on location and whether you opt for university accommodation such as halls of residence, or choose a private rental. Other costs you’ll have to factor in are books and study aids for about $1,500. Transport is also an essential cost you’ll need to factor in when budgeting for your postgrad studies. Living closer to your chosen university especially if you manage to get university accommodation on the campus will cut down travel costs substantially. Other costs such as health insurance and food need to be taken into consideration. You can check specific fees and costs on your chosen university’s website.
Applications & admissions in North Carolina
Each university will have its own application process for international students, and although grade requirements will differ depending on which country you are coming from and which university you are applying to, you will certainly need to have a good undergraduate degree result to be considered. Common application requirements include the relevant application form, exam scores, application fees, personal statement, educational and exam transcripts, academic and personal references and maybe an interview. If you are from a non-English speaking country you will also need proof of your English-language abilities in order to succeed with your application.
Interesting North Carolina alumni
Many notable alumni have studied at North Carolina universities. These include the former CEO of Pepsi, D Wayne Calloway who attended Wake Forest University and the former President of the United States Woodrow Wilson who studied at Davidson College. Ken Jeong, the famous actor and comedian known for his appearances in the Hangover movie franchise and the TV series Community, studied at Duke University, whilst pro bowler and NFL quarterback Philip Rivers attended North Carolina State University.
Student case study
Many students, both international and domestic, have had great success whilst studying a postgraduate course in North Carolina. One such student is Zubin from India who studied a Masters in Industrial Engineering at North Carolina State University. He says of his time here that he found “Lots and lots of opportunities here to grow, learn and also earn.” Zubin found his experience in North Carolina to be, “one of the most fascinating chapters” of his life.
What can you do in North Carolina when you aren’t studying?
Although studying abroad can be a huge change in culture, there is a lot to be learnt from the experience and you’re guaranteed not to regret it. There are plenty of students across North Carolina, and when they aren't studying they can be found undertaking a huge range of activities. From hiking in Blue Ridge Parkway, exploring the Biltmore Estate to going to one of North Carolina's many fascinating museums.
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