Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, UNC Asheville pairs a public liberal-arts focus with hands-on learning across the sciences, humanities, and the arts. Students know their professors, dive into research early, and build strong writing and quantitative skills. The campus brings together modern labs and studio spaces, a lively library, performance venues, and a busy recreation center, plus advising, tutoring, counseling, and career coaching.
Student life leans adventurous and creative. Weekend hikes, river runs, and club outings sit next to gallery shows, concerts, and service projects. The culture is collaborative, shaped by Asheville's maker scene and its music, food, and outdoor communities. Internships and class partnerships link students with nonprofits, startups, and environmental groups, while campus research showcases help them share their work. It feels intimate, yet open to big ideas.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
One University Heights, Asheville, North Carolina, 28804, USA
Explore degree programs offered at University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in North Carolina. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in North Carolina vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Arts (8)
Most Graduates (15.2%)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0102
Digital Arts.
(Cert2y+)
A general, undifferentiated program that focuses on the use of computerized digital images as the primary medium of expression in the visual and performing arts, and that may prepare individuals for a wide variety of careers using new media, including graphic design, digital animation, motion graphics, 3D visualization, game and interactive media design, music and sound design, video production, web design, photography, and other fields.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-1011
Art Directors
$128,100
$87,720
-$40,380 (-31.5%)
27-1014
Special Effects Artists and Animators
$110,110
$74,070
-$36,040 (-32.7%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$77,660
-$1,830 (-2.3%)
27-1024
Graphic Designers
$68,610
$53,630
-$14,980 (-21.8%)
27-4021
Photographers
$55,650
$42,930
-$12,720 (-22.9%)
50.0501
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study of dramatic works and their performance. Includes instruction in major works of dramatic literature, dramatic styles and types, and the principles of organizing and producing full live or filmed productions.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2011
Actors
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-2012
Producers and Directors
$114,280
$70,550
-$43,730 (-38.3%)
27-2099
Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
50.0701
Art/Art Studies, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of the visual arts. Includes instruction in art, photography, and other visual communications media.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-1012
Craft Artists
$45,340
$42,880
-$2,460 (-5.4%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$53,060
-$23,390 (-30.6%)
27-4021
Photographers
$55,650
$42,930
-$12,720 (-22.9%)
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$53,060
-$23,390 (-30.6%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$77,660
-$1,830 (-2.3%)
50.0703
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the historical development of art as social and intellectual phenomenon, the analysis of works of art, and art conservation. Includes instruction in the theory of art, art history research methods, connoisseurship, the preservation and conservation of works of art, and the study of specific periods, cultures, styles, and themes.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
25-4011
Archivists
$67,620
$54,810
-$12,810 (-18.9%)
25-4012
Curators
$70,060
$48,230
-$21,830 (-31.2%)
25-4013
Museum Technicians and Conservators
$53,630
$25,800
-$27,830 (-51.9%)
50.0901
Music, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of music and the performing arts. Includes instruction in music, dance, and other performing arts media.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-2042
Musicians and Singers
N/A
N/A
N/A
50.0910
Jazz/Jazz Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to study and master the performance and composition of Jazz. Includes instruction in the history of Jazz and related musical styles such as the Blues, Jazz composition and theory, improvisation, Jazz instrument and ensemble performance, and related topics.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2042
Musicians and Singers
N/A
N/A
N/A
50.0913
Music Technology.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the creative aspects of the blending of music and technology; and that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the composition, recording, synthesis, and performance of music; audio-visual production; scoring for film and multimedia; and software and multimedia development. Includes instruction in music theory, music history, composition, acoustics, recording technology, computer composition, electronic music synthesis, technology-based performance, 3D sound and spatial audio, and music business and law.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,620
-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2041
Music Directors and Composers
$84,230
$66,540
-$17,690 (-21%)
27-2091
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-4014
Sound Engineering Technicians
$79,280
$59,300
-$19,980 (-25.2%)
Psychology (1)
Most Graduates (14.9%)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101
Psychology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of individual and collective behavior, the physical and environmental bases of behavior, and the analysis and treatment of behavior problems and disorders. Includes instruction in the principles of the various subfields of psychology, research methods, and psychological assessment and testing methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3032
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
$134,400
N/A
N/A
19-3033
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
$106,850
$80,980
-$25,870 (-24.2%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$143,900
+$32,560 (+29.2%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$49,390
-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$74,660
-$18,870 (-20.2%)
Social Sciences (4)
Most Graduates (10.1%)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.0201
Anthropology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human beings, their antecedents and related primates, and their cultural behavior and institutions, in comparative perspective. Includes instruction in biological/physical anthropology, primatology, human paleontology and prehistoric archeology, hominid evolution, anthropological linguistics, ethnography, ethnology, ethnohistory, socio-cultural anthropology, psychological anthropology, research methods, and applications to areas such as medicine, forensic pathology, museum studies, and international affairs.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3091
Anthropologists and Archeologists
$71,070
$75,880
+$4,810 (+6.8%)
25-1061
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,530
$66,680
-$35,850 (-35%)
45.0601
Economics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of the production, conservation and allocation of resources in conditions of scarcity, together with the organizational frameworks related to these processes. Includes instruction in economic theory, micro- and macroeconomics, comparative economic systems, money and banking systems, international economics, quantitative analytical methods, and applications to specific industries and public policy issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3011
Economists
$130,910
$111,910
-$19,000 (-14.5%)
19-3022
Survey Researchers
$73,470
$78,270
+$4,800 (+6.5%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$49,390
-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1063
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
$133,140
$111,400
-$21,740 (-16.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3094
Political Scientists
$137,600
N/A
N/A
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$49,390
-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1065
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,160
$82,120
-$23,040 (-21.9%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human social institutions and social relationships. Includes instruction in social theory, sociological research methods, social organization and structure, social stratification and hierarchies, dynamics of social change, family structures, social deviance and control, and applications to the study of specific social groups, social institutions, and social problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3041
Sociologists
$111,670
$107,520
-$4,150 (-3.7%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$49,390
-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1067
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,270
$65,850
-$31,420 (-32.3%)
Business (2)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$245,590
-$17,340 (-6.6%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$95,470
-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$122,190
-$38,740 (-24.1%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$95,330
-$30,700 (-24.4%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$100,820
-$13,700 (-12%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$119,210
-$9,970 (-7.7%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$96,430
-$19,580 (-16.9%)
11-3111
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$156,230
$125,270
-$30,960 (-19.8%)
11-3121
Human Resources Managers
$160,480
$122,810
-$37,670 (-23.5%)
11-3131
Training and Development Managers
$140,590
$107,730
-$32,860 (-23.4%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$110,400
-$9,260 (-7.7%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$77,210
-$9,850 (-11.3%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$74,450
-$11,650 (-13.5%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
$63,190
-$7,430 (-10.5%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$68,490
-$14,670 (-17.6%)
13-1071
Human Resources Specialists
$79,730
$69,440
-$10,290 (-12.9%)
13-1081
Logisticians
$87,600
$71,950
-$15,650 (-17.9%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$85,450
-$22,650 (-21%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$89,890
-$24,820 (-21.6%)
13-1141
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
$82,920
$68,530
-$14,390 (-17.4%)
13-1199
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
$92,380
$66,040
-$26,340 (-28.5%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$99,870
-$13,970 (-12.3%)
52.0301
Accounting.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to practice the profession of accounting and to perform related business functions. Includes instruction in accounting principles and theory, financial accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting, budget control, tax accounting, legal aspects of accounting, auditing, reporting procedures, statement analysis, planning and consulting, business information systems, accounting research methods, professional standards and ethics, and applications to specific for-profit, public, and non-profit organizations.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
13-2011
Accountants and Auditors
$93,520
$79,020
-$14,500 (-15.5%)
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
13-2031
Budget Analysts
$93,920
$76,080
-$17,840 (-19%)
13-2041
Credit Analysts
$98,040
$126,350
+$28,310 (+28.9%)
13-2054
Financial Risk Specialists
$119,930
$90,630
-$29,300 (-24.4%)
13-2061
Financial Examiners
$103,650
$95,210
-$8,440 (-8.1%)
13-2081
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
$67,570
$57,110
-$10,460 (-15.5%)
13-2082
Tax Preparers
$58,860
$57,490
-$1,370 (-2.3%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$99,870
-$13,970 (-12.3%)
Natural Resources (2)
Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management
03.0103
Environmental Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on environment-related issues using scientific, social scientific, or humanistic approaches or a combination. Includes instruction in the basic principles of ecology and environmental science and related subjects such as policy, politics, law, economics, social aspects, planning, pollution control, natural resources, and the interactions of human beings and nature.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
13-1041
Compliance Officers
$84,980
$63,080
-$21,900 (-25.8%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$65,530
-$23,110 (-26.1%)
25-1053
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$100,360
$69,200
-$31,160 (-31%)
03.0104
Environmental Science.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the application of biological, chemical, and physical principles to the study of the physical environment and the solution of environmental problems, including subjects such as abating or controlling environmental pollution and degradation; the interaction between human society and the natural environment; and natural resources management. Includes instruction in biology, chemistry, physics, geosciences, climatology, statistics, and mathematical modeling.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
13-1041
Compliance Officers
$84,980
$63,080
-$21,900 (-25.8%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$65,530
-$23,110 (-26.1%)
19-4042
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
$56,770
$50,340
-$6,430 (-11.3%)
19-4071
Forest and Conservation Technicians
$56,660
$54,090
-$2,570 (-4.5%)
25-1053
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$100,360
$69,200
-$31,160 (-31%)
Biological Sciences (1)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$132,640
-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-1029
Biological Scientists, All Other
$100,440
$75,570
-$24,870 (-24.8%)
19-1099
Life Scientists, All Other
$101,940
$126,070
+$24,130 (+23.7%)
19-4012
Agricultural Technicians
$49,680
$48,660
-$1,020 (-2.1%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$50,150
-$4,250 (-7.8%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$53,940
-$4,080 (-7%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$44,600
-$30,660 (-40.7%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$69,310
-$32,030 (-31.6%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
Health (2)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.2201
Public Health, General.
(PostBacCert)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, manage, and evaluate public health care services; to function as public health professionals in public agencies, the private sector, and other settings; and to provide leadership in the field of public health. Includes instruction in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health principles, preventive medicine, health policy and regulations, health care services and related administrative functions, public health law enforcement, health economics and budgeting, public communications, and professional standards and ethics.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9111
Medical and Health Services Managers
$137,730
$111,900
-$25,830 (-18.8%)
21-1091
Health Education Specialists
$71,700
$52,920
-$18,780 (-26.2%)
21-1094
Community Health Workers
$55,970
$40,410
-$15,560 (-27.8%)
25-1071
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$137,900
$81,530
-$56,370 (-40.9%)
51.2207
Public Health Education and Promotion.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the application of educational and communications principles and methods to the promotion of preventive health measures and the education of targeted populations on health issues, and prepares individuals to function as public health educators and health promotion specialists. Includes instruction in human development, health issues across the life span, population-specific health issues, principles and methods of public health education, administration of health education campaigns and programs, evaluation methods, public communications, and applications to specific public health subjects and issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
21-1091
Health Education Specialists
$71,700
$52,920
-$18,780 (-26.2%)
21-1094
Community Health Workers
$55,970
$40,410
-$15,560 (-27.8%)
25-1071
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$137,900
$81,530
-$56,370 (-40.9%)
Physical Sciences (3)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research
40.0401
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of the atmospheric envelopes surrounding the earth, the effect of earth's atmosphere on terrestrial weather, and related problems of environment and climate. Includes instruction in atmospheric chemistry and physics, atmospheric dynamics, climatology and climate change, weather simulation, weather forecasting, climate modeling and mathematical theory; and studies of specific phenomena such as clouds, weather systems, storms, and precipitation patterns.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$132,640
-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2021
Atmospheric and Space Scientists
$103,980
$111,210
+$7,230 (+7%)
19-4099
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other
$64,640
N/A
N/A
25-1051
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
$112,950
$96,810
-$16,140 (-14.3%)
40.0501
Chemistry, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$132,640
-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2031
Chemists
$95,940
$72,750
-$23,190 (-24.2%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$50,150
-$4,250 (-7.8%)
19-4031
Chemical Technicians
$61,300
$53,500
-$7,800 (-12.7%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$44,600
-$30,660 (-40.7%)
25-1052
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
$103,030
$70,760
-$32,270 (-31.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
40.0801
Physics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy, and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$132,640
-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2012
Physicists
$166,000
$152,640
-$13,360 (-8%)
25-1054
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,460
$78,750
-$26,710 (-25.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
English (1)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.0101
English Language and Literature, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$63,670
-$26,730 (-29.6%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
43-9081
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
$52,730
$50,560
-$2,170 (-4.1%)
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0102
Mass Communication/Media Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the analysis and criticism of media institutions and media texts, how people experience and understand media content, and the roles of media in producing and transforming culture. Includes instruction in communications regulation, law, and policy; media history; media aesthetics, interpretation, and criticism; the social and cultural effects of mass media; cultural studies; the economics of media industries; visual and media literacy; and the psychology and behavioral aspects of media messages, interpretation, and utilization.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-2032
Public Relations Managers
$163,520
$122,560
-$40,960 (-25%)
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$69,870
-$20,470 (-22.7%)
27-3023
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
$106,030
$43,990
-$62,040 (-58.5%)
27-3041
Editors
$85,700
$73,950
-$11,750 (-13.7%)
27-3043
Writers and Authors
$85,780
$49,180
-$36,600 (-42.7%)
Engineering (1)
Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions
14.0101
Engineering, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to solve a wide variety of practical problems in industry, social organization, public works, and commerce. Includes instruction in undifferentiated and individualized programs in engineering.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9041
Architectural and Engineering Managers
$175,710
$147,200
-$28,510 (-16.2%)
17-2199
Engineers, All Other
$121,720
$91,600
-$30,120 (-24.7%)
25-1032
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
$119,340
$81,210
-$38,130 (-32%)
Computer & IT (1)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0701
Computer Science.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a scientific perspective. Includes instruction in the principles of computational science, computer development and programming, and applications to a variety of end-use situations.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-3021
Computer and Information Systems Managers
$187,990
$165,000
-$22,990 (-12.2%)
15-1212
Information Security Analysts
$127,730
$105,480
-$22,250 (-17.4%)
15-1221
Computer and Information Research Scientists
$152,310
$136,240
-$16,070 (-10.6%)
15-1231
Computer Network Support Specialists
$79,610
$63,680
-$15,930 (-20%)
15-1243
Database Architects
$142,620
$85,330
-$57,290 (-40.2%)
15-1251
Computer Programmers
$103,640
$86,100
-$17,540 (-16.9%)
15-1252
Software Developers
$144,570
$113,570
-$31,000 (-21.4%)
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$79,700
-$30,560 (-27.7%)
15-1254
Web Developers
$98,790
$92,140
-$6,650 (-6.7%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$86,300
-$25,150 (-22.6%)
15-1299
Computer Occupations, All Other
$116,700
$86,250
-$30,450 (-26.1%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$97,340
-$27,250 (-21.9%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
$82,200
-$23,630 (-22.3%)
Languages (2)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies
16.0101
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on one or more modern foreign languages that is not specific as to the name of the language(s) studied; that is otherwise undifferentiated; or that introduces students to language studies at the basic/elementary level.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
$62,670
-$25,000 (-28.5%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$41,510
-$23,440 (-36.1%)
16.1200
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 16.1200 - 16.1299.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
$62,670
-$25,000 (-28.5%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$41,510
-$23,440 (-36.1%)
History (1)
Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research
54.0101
History, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study and interpretation of the past, including the gathering, recording, synthesizing and criticizing of evidence and theories about past events. Includes instruction in historiography; historical research methods; studies of specific periods, issues and cultures; and applications to areas such as historic preservation, public policy, and records administration.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$103,500
-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3093
Historians
$78,470
$93,800
+$15,330 (+19.5%)
25-1125
History Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,710
$71,020
-$22,690 (-24.2%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
39-7011
Tour Guides and Escorts
N/A
N/A
N/A
Liberal Arts (1)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$60,950
-$33,520 (-35.5%)
Mathematics (1)
Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis
27.0101
Mathematics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$132,640
-$40,860 (-23.6%)
15-2021
Mathematicians
$122,520
N/A
N/A
15-2041
Statisticians
$112,330
$109,680
-$2,650 (-2.4%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$97,340
-$27,250 (-21.9%)
15-2099
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
$84,700
$93,990
+$9,290 (+11%)
25-1022
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$92,880
$69,980
-$22,900 (-24.7%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$51,640
-$22,060 (-29.9%)
Philosophy (2)
Philosophical Studies, Ethics and Religious Thought
38.0101
Philosophy.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on ideas and their logical structure, including arguments and investigations about abstract and real phenomena. Includes instruction in logic, ethics, aesthetics, epistemology, metaphysics, symbolism, and history of philosophy, and applications to the theoretical foundations and methods of other disciplines.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$77,230
-$10,980 (-12.4%)
38.0201
Religion/Religious Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the nature of religious belief and specific religious and quasi-religious systems. Includes instruction in phenomenology; the sociology, psychology, philosophy, anthropology, literature and art of religion; mythology; scriptural and textual studies; religious history and politics; and specific studies of particular faith communities and their behavior.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$77,230
-$10,980 (-12.4%)
Cultural Studies (1)
Cultural Anthropology, Ethnic Studies and Social Group Research
05.0207
Women's Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the history, sociology, politics, culture, and economics of women, and the development of modern feminism in relation to the roles played by women in different periods and locations in North America and the world. Programs may focus on literature, philosophy, and the arts as much as on social studies and policy.
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
North Carolina Avg
NC vs US
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$80,390
-$16,960 (-17.4%)
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate
and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$22,279
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$39,627
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$7,461
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$24,809
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$11,018
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$1,200
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$2,600
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$2,600
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$8,253
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$24,575
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for
undergraduate students
17%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$6,856
Avg. Loan
$7,115
Avg. Federal Loan
$5,108
Additional
Students with Any Grant
458
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
216
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
120
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$4,617
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Avg. Pell Grant
$5,289
Average amount of Pell Grant awarded to recipients
Avg. State/Local Grant
$2,546
Average amount of state or local grant awarded to recipients
Pell Grant Recipients
24%
Percentage of students who received Pell Grant
State/Local Grant Recipients
30%
Percentage of students who received state or local grant
Institutional Grant Recipients
90%
Percentage of students awarded institutional grants
Federal Grant Recipients
24%
Percentage of students who received federal grant
Any Grant Recipients
91%
Percentage of students who received any type of grant
Any Loan Recipients
43%
Percentage of students who received any kind of student loan
Federal Loan Recipients
42%
Percentage of students who received a federal loan
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
55%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
73%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$28,212 – $63,894
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$28,212 (25th %)$63,894 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$44,030
Median Salary After 6 Years
$36,947
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$44,030
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency
status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
60.4%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
65.0%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$20,500
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low51.8%
Middle65.6%
High65.8%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent63.8%
Independent51.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA)
How much does it cost to attend University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA)?
The annual tuition at University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) is $7,461 for in-state students and $24,809 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $22,279 for in-state students and $39,627 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $11,018 and books and supplies $1,200.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does University of North Carolina Asheville offer?
University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) offers 37 academic programs across 18 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's.
Most popular program areas include:
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (8 programs)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (4 programs)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research (3 programs)
Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management (2 programs)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for University of North Carolina Asheville?
University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) has an 93.9% acceptance rate and a 12.3% yield rate, making it moderately selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
Total applicants: 5,465
Students admitted: 5,131
Students enrolled: 630
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at University of North Carolina Asheville?
University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) provides financial aid to 17% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,856 and average loans of $7,115.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $5,289
State/Local grants: $2,546
Institutional grants: $4,617
Federal loans: $5,108
The university supports 458 students with grants and 216 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for University of North Carolina Asheville graduates?
University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) graduates earn a median salary of $36,947 after 6 years and $44,030 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $28,212 (25th percentile) to $63,894 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $72,600 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
Related Universities
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill