2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in North Carolina

• Winston Salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  264 reviews

Alum: UNCSA is by far one of the top musical educations programs in the country. After my B.Mus., I went on to receive my M.Mus., my D.M.A., my B.Sci., B.Sci., M.Sci., and M.D., Ph.D., and by far, next to my Ph.D., my B.Mus. was one of the most cherished that I received. The education was superlative, and my Professors were all simply amazing. They cared for their students, put them through rigorous paces so that they would be competitive when they went into the professional performing arena. Academics were superb and well taught. Most are not aware, but UNCSA had rolling-admissions when I was a student there (Music, '86). You would have to complete a recital in front of the University Music faculty, be prepared to answer any questions they had, and be performing well in your academic coursework. Given that, you would receive your letter in July prior to the University year starting whether or not you were allowed to return. Do yourself a favor and check out this marvelous University.... Read 264 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $12,097

• SAT range 1120-1380

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,195 reviews

Sophomore: Duke offers me an enriching and transformative experience. What stands out to me the most is the invaluable network and the exceptional people I've encountered here. The community at Duke is filled with goal-oriented, friendly, and intelligent individuals, all of whom have inspired and motivated me to strive for excellence. Moreover, Duke's commitment to providing outstanding academic resources has been a game-changer for me. I'm especially thankful for the innovative and entrepreneurship resources, as they have open my career path to startups. Lastly, the buildings and nature are beautiful!... Read 1,195 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $27,297

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Davidson, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  338 reviews

Alum: The professors and faculty are incredibly passionate not only about their research but helping students become better, independent researchers. They care about their students academic performance as well as their general well-being, and help their students prepare for life after Davidson. Additionally, the small classroom environments helps foster a close knit community that thrives on collaboration and the honor code engenders a common, shared community standard of honesty and integrity. The student government, additionally, helps act as an advocate for student voices and works with the administration to effect positive change for everyone. If students ever need help, the administration and staff are generally helpful and provide help in a timely manner. I needed a letter same day for a job offer from the transcript office before transcripts with final grades were available and they were kind enough to fulfill my request on short notice!... Read 338 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $25,794

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  2,624 reviews

Junior: Over all my experience at UNC has been very good! It is a fast pace academically challenging environment. I consider this a good thing, the challenge and learning is exactly what I was looking for. The classes and teachers push me to work hard and grow. The mindset of the other students is likewise. Most students I encounter with are hard working. The main bad experience I have had at UNC Chapel Hill is the two lock downs caused by armed and dangerous people on campus. I do not completely blame the university for this as, of course, they cannot control every possible threat that steps onto campus. The first lock down a staff member was tragically shot and passed away. The university cancelled classes the next two days out of respect and to allow the students to recover. This was the right thing to do. However the second lock down class continued the next day as normal. I am believe they should have cancelled class at least one day after to allow students a break to process and recover.... Read 2,624 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $11,508

• SAT range 1140-1380

• Winston-salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  862 reviews

Niche User: Small school academic benefits with a favorable student/faculty ratio wrapped in the benefits of a big school spirit. Wake has a rigorous curriculum backed by caring, involved professors. Its gorgeous tree lined campus (ranked as one of the most beautiful by Architectural Digest) has plenty of outdoor space for study and play, and has modern student housing and facilities. Downtown Winston Salem, a burgeoning area with great cafes, restaurants and arts scene, is only a short drive from campus. Although ranked #23 by US News as "best value", it is still underrated. Graduates benefit from the support of a strong alum network and a Wake diploma is highly regarded on a national level. Go Deacs!... Read 862 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $24,643

• SAT range —

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,172 reviews

Sophomore: I loved the campus, it is very beautiful! The food was good but after winter break it started becoming average, still better than most campuses. The teachers are good and passionate about the subject they're teaching. There are office hours with each professor, there are S.I sessions, and tutoring available free for all students for their classes. The resources for students are endless, with health services, mental health services, food services, etc., there is something for every problem you can think of. There are a lot of clubs you can join and the campus is very LGBTQ+ friendly and accepting of all genders!... Read 3,172 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $9,950

• SAT range 1020-1260

• Elon, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,553 reviews

Freshman: I love Elon! The community is so welcoming, and you can tell my stepping on the beautiful campus. The school supplies so many opportunities for students to get involved. Org fairs are amazing ways to find new things that you may be interested in, and meet others who have the same interests as you. Almost all of the undergraduate teachers that I have had are very understanding and genuinely want to see their students succeed. The night life is very fun, however parties start later than at other universities. Dining options are very good and there are plenty of retail places that you can 'swipe' into a select number of times a week, depending on your meal plan. I have no complaints about Elon and would highly recommend applying!... Read 1,553 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $40,366

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  302 reviews

Sophomore: William Peace University is an excellent private college because the campus is accessible to navigate, the campus values and incorporates Immersive Learning to improve education among Peace students, and the classes are enjoyable. Classes were challenging, but they also helped me open up a variety of perspectives about life and try new things. I liked how it was easier for me to build relationships with students as well as peer tutors and my professors. The campus also provided a ton of services, clubs, and inclusive groups. They even offer student jobs and volunteer opportunities as well as off-campus. I had the opportunity to volunteer off-campus to gain leadership experience for one of my Honors classes. Also, I like that William Peace offers an Honors Program to encourage students to push further and learn different life principles such as leadership, business, and the professional workplace. I had a great First Year and hopefully, the rest of my 4-year experience will go well.... Read 302 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $26,338

• SAT range 1000-1130

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  756 reviews

Sophomore: Meredith College has shaped me into the women I am today. From the area to the professors, I realized that it is possible to feel safe and welcomed in an area you don’t even know. Professors, peers, coaches, and dining hall members care about us dearly. I love how Meredith keeps so many traditions alive such as corn huskin, class day, fire and water, and much more! They allow us students to come together as one and realize we are all in the same part of our lives together! I love this school and I love where I am at. One thing I think they can improve on is improving the dining hall and listening more to the students on major decisions!... Read 756 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $21,717

• SAT range 1060-1230

• Salisbury, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  349 reviews

Graduate Student: The majority of my time at Catawba is going nicely. The school's personnel and instructors are kind, and I enjoy the environment. I'd like to see the classrooms and buildings renovated because they need to be updated.The gym also need restoration because it is too tiny for a school with that many kids. The "quad," which serves as the hub of campus, is typically empty because there is little to do there. The school needs to do a better job of organizing activities so that children may interact and develop friends.... Read 349 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $19,276

• SAT range 990-1150

• Wilmington, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,970 reviews

Alum: UNCW isn't as large as many other UNC schools, but the opportunities available to students - learning communities, scholarships, research, study abroad, extracurriculars, networking - are incredibly robust, especially for undergraduates that might not know what opportunities to look for when they first start off! The Honors program helps its students take even better advantage of the resources that the school has to offer. UNCW is not the most diverse institution. Their commitment to worldliness and diversity is vocal: things like demographic-based student organizations, encouraging every student to study abroad, and providing scholarships and the like specifically for minority groups. But this isn't reflected in the bulk of the student body, faculty, and administration. In my time there (and in the years since), UNCW has grown a lot in this area, though, and I hope that trend continues!... Read 1,970 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $18,792

• SAT range 1210-1330

• Boone, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,767 reviews

Senior: App State can be a great school depending on what your major is! I started as Choral Music Education and switched to Vocal Performance, and I've learned that all degree programs within the Hayes School of Music are incredibly difficult and time consuming. Do not choose to be a music major unless you are very passionate about and dedicated to classical music, since you will be spending all of your time in a practice room. I'm officially changing my major to Gender, Women's and Sexuality Studies with a minor in Music, which seems like the better fit for me. There's a decently sized queer population on campus, but there's hardly any racial diversity at all. I love the mountains and the campus in general, but it's important to note that because of the mountains and hills the town of Boone and App State's campus are not very accessible for students/people with physical disabilities. I've had a fairly negative experience as a music major, but I love Appalachian State University as a whole!... Read 2,767 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,735

• SAT range 1130-1300

• Cullowhee, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,604 reviews

Freshman: Oh, I'd love to share an amazing experience I had at Western Carolina University! It was such a vibrant and inclusive community. The campus was surrounded by the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, providing a breathtaking backdrop for my studies. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making learning engaging and inspiring. I also had the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations, which helped me make lifelong friends and create unforgettable memories. Whether it was attending football games, exploring the nearby hiking trails, or participating in campus events, every moment at WCU was filled with excitement and growth. It truly was an incredible experience that I'll cherish forever!... Read 1,604 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $13,082

• SAT range 1060-1230

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,094 reviews

Junior: I am currently a prospective transfer student that has had the best transfer admissions and enrollment experience with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. I have not taken any classes yet but, was able to experience what a Business course would look and feel like at the New Student Orientation I had participated in. I loved how welcoming and helpful everyone was including the adminstration and what would be my future peers as well. I do believe I chose the correct University to transfer to this fall as I have only had a positive experience with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University thus far. I truly am overly excited to continue my education in a state I have never lived in and am ready to began pursuing a more fulfilling and plentiful life!... Read 3,094 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $9,145

• SAT range 990-1170

• Greenville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  3,050 reviews

Junior: East Carolina University has something for everyone, especially if being a pirate is in your blood! With my parents and the majority of my extended family being ECU alumni, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. Reasonable distance from the capital to the coast makes ECU the perfect distance for educational and/ or fun day trips. Recent additions and updates to campus classroom buildings and residence halls have helped ECU spring forward with state of the art facilities and living spaces. Many residence halls are co-ed now allowing for even more diversity than in the past. There’s nothing like a sports team that never gives up! The ECU pirates continue to strive to improve their program. Taking on new coaches and expanding their division to play more and more schools, gives ECU’s football team something g to be proud of. Once a Pirate, always a pirate!... Read 3,050 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $14,762

• SAT range 1020-1170

• Asheville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  696 reviews

Senior: UNCA has been a transformative experience for me as the University’s liberal arts core provided solace amid uncertainty. Majoring in French and International Studies, I became the French Course Ambassador, revived Club Francophone, and rejuvenated Pi Delta Phi. Campus’s focus on student engagement allowed me to foster a sense of community of like-minded folks who want to nurture the evermore importance of person-to-person, global citizenry. This scholarship could be a game-changer. It would enable me to play a beneficial role in a Faculty Led Study Abroad program in Saumur, France (requested aid by prof.). Leveraging my ASCI connections and my status as a UNCA alumnus, I can significantly enhance the students’ experience. This grant is vital for my ability to contribute meaningfully to their journey pursuing our shared intercultural values. UNCA has empowered me to make positive impacts on campus, and with this scholarship, I can inspire current students to make their own in the world.... Read 696 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $13,838

• SAT range 1130-1330

• Charlotte, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  3,461 reviews

Freshman: UNC Charlotte is a fantastic college with a vibrant campus and a wide range of academic programs. The campus itself is beautiful, and there are plenty of resources available to support students' academic and personal growth. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and they genuinely care about their students' success. The campus community is diverse and welcoming, creating a great environment for making new friends and getting involved in various clubs and organizations. There are so many opportunities at UNC Charlotte academically to be a successful student. Overall, UNC Charlotte provides a great college experience with ample opportunities for learning, growth, and fun!... Read 3,461 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $15,682

• SAT range 1120-1320

• Boiling Springs, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  785 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Gardner-Webb University has been incredible. Every class that I have taken has challenged me and helped me grow into a better student and individual. The campus is gorgeous at all times of the year. The staff and fellow students are some of the kindest and most caring individuals you will ever meet. Whenever you meet someone new it feels like you have known them forever. The food is pretty good most days but every now and then, a sandwich is the best way to go. The dorms are very nice and clean. They are also in great proximity to where the classes are. Overall Gardner-Webb University is a wonderful school to further your education.... Read 785 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $20,296

• SAT range 960-1190

• Pembroke, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,212 reviews

Junior: Here at UNCP, the administrators make sure you have a safe place to study. They make sure they prepare you for your work ahead so that you can put your best foot forward. As someone who values a balance of mental, physical, and educational progress, there are plenty of opportunities for me to engage in on campus. Before class, I register for F45 to help build my physical health. They make sure you know your resourses in case you need to talk to someone. Lastly, the teachers make sure you are ready for the work ahead of you. Not to mention, even the food is great, and that's coming from a vegan! If I had to change anything, I wish there was more members in the SOTC Marching Band. I have fun, but I want to share my love of the marching arts with more people!... Read 1,212 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $11,022

• SAT range 890-1140

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  470 reviews

Senior: Guilford is a very fun institution to attend there are a lot of possibilities that the school offers and there are so many friendly and helpful staff in the financial aid department. I highly recommend coming to Guilford the rooms are really good and there are plenty of opportunities to thrive and become a part of the Guilford community. Our new President Kyle Farmbry has been very motivational and has gotten a lot of respect from the students after we lost our last President. But actions speak far louder than words do. Apply and find out for yourself!... Read 470 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $25,785

• SAT range 950-1200

• High Point, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,556 reviews

Other: We are so incredibly grateful for my daughter'sexperience at HPU. She had amazing professors who prepared her both in and out of the classroom for her to be career-ready. All of the staff at HPU are so caring and truly are there to assist your students. The dorms are beautiful, the security team always goes above and peyond, the learning resources are abundant, and the president, Dr Qubein, continually does the right things right! He has transformed this university into the extraordinary place it is today. He is approachable, transparent, and a tremendous role model for the students Our daughter had two fantastic internships during her time at HPU and was offered two incredible job opportunities in the fall before she graduated in May. She is happily and successfully employed and walked into this new chapter feeling very well-prepared. We dropped off a timid, shy freshman girl and got back after graduation, a mature and confident young woman.... Read 1,556 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $40,604

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Fayetteville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  957 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience at Fayetteville State University has been wonderful so far as a college freshman. FSU offers a variety of hands on programs and resources that will help benefit students. This includes programs that support mental health, physical well being, grade extensions, and more. The staff and overall institution environment is extremely diverse and friendly, and they pride themselves into being able to encourage and support students.... Read 957 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $6,718

• SAT range 830-1040

• Buies Creek, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,341 reviews

Junior: There are many great things about attending Campbell! For one, Campbell is a consistently growing school. Campbell provides for their students, and genuinely cares for their students. At Campbell, you will find resources, staff and students to assist you in every aspect of your college journey. I personally love the atmosphere, and how diverse the campus is. Campbell has many new buildings, including a new student union which is part of the bookstore, cafeteria, gym, gaming rooms, hangout spots, dance rooms, and many more. I enjoy how Campbell is always committed to their students. Campbell has changed so much, but still remains the same driven school. This school continually improves and has always had student's best-interest at heart. Through the financial process, Campbell has always had my back.. and as a new student it is refreshing. Campbell has provided so much for me, and I highly recommend others to consider Campbell in their college decision making journey.... Read 1,341 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $23,163

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Hickory, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  464 reviews

Freshman: Lenoir-Rhyne University has overall been an excellent experience! Applying to the college, getting in contact with advising and help desks have been the easiest. The campus is beautiful and very enticing. The students and staff are very pleasant to talk to and be around. Although the school is very challenging, Lenoir-Rhyne is worth every penny! The school makes getting your BSN so easy. So far there is nothing about the school that I would change. I would recommend this school to anyone who is serious about their education. Along with a great curriculum, they also have a fantastic sports regimen. Their music program brings students from all over the country to their school and continues to win awards for their skills. There is a little bit of everything for everyone. There are sororities and other clubs for extra curricular activities.... Read 464 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $21,739

• SAT range 970-1170

• Fayetteville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  605 reviews

Freshman: So far, my experience at Methodist University has been wonderful! I am a commuting student and a freshman at Methodist. I am a Music Performance major, a small field of study at Methodist. Methodist is very inclusive and diverse with everything involving students, professors, and academics alike. Because I am a Music Performance major, I am heavily involved with the music programs that Methodist has to offer. Methodist offers vocal and instrumental lessons for students even if you are not in a music field of study. Methodist also offers ensembles for all instruments. I am currently involved with the Methodist Chamber Orchestra. My overall experience at Methodist has been wonderful. I greatly appreciate Methodist's activity and involvment with the students who live both on and off campus. This is a great school with great opportunities of education!... Read 605 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $18,205

• SAT range 1110-1230