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10 Best Online Doctoral Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to the oldest public university (the University of North Carolina), the world-famous Research Triangle Park, and one of the world’s fastest-growing centers for banking and finance (Charlotte). With an unprecedented demand for higher education, North Carolina is also becoming a hub for online education, with online degree programs growing exponentially. The Top 10 Best Online PhD Programs in North Carolina include small religious universities, global research universities, and some of the nation’s finest regional institutions for variety, accessibility, and quality.

Featured Online Programs

1. john wesley university.

With students entering at multiple levels, ages, and career stages, as well as from varied backgrounds, John Wesley is quite a diverse community. They are also no stranger to innovative educational models, including an emphasis on online advanced degrees. JWU offers a Doctor of Ministry in Christian Leadership that is designed to meet students needs, regardless of their church background. Requirements include an MDiv, MMin, MTS, or comparable degree and substantial experience in ministry. In this program, students will build upon previous studies within the context of current ministry to achieve greater leadership competency in today’s global environment. The program employs a cohort model, offering students a chance to engage with others doing the same work. JWU requires a one-week residency within the cohort model where students gather with their professor and fellow students twice a year for a time of intense personal and academic development.

2. NC State University

North Carolina State University is located in the state’s capital city of Raleigh, North Carolina. With more than $400 million in new sponsored research awards in 2017 for on campus and online research, NC State is dedicated to student-focused research activity that allows for a more expansive understanding of the world through their respective disciplines.

Within the realm of online education, NC State is ahead of the curve with their Online and Distance Education Departments. Beyond the breadth of subjects offered online, NC State ensures that online programming is the full academic equivalent of on-campus programs. Online material receives the same accreditation as on-campus programs, and are taught by world-leading faculty who are experts in their field, and have experience in the nuanced differences in on-campus and online education styles. They offer 3 Doctorate programs classified as either online or distance learning (lower residency requirements), including the Doctor of Design (DDes), the Adult and Community Education Program , and the Education Leadership Program .

3. UNC Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill is famous for being the first public university in the country, while continuing to be at the front of the line in terms of training future innovators and leaders in a number of fields such as Business, Education and Public Health. UNC trains students who are motivated and engaged to meet their passions and bring excellence to the workforce. In fact, 78% of enrolled freshman were in the top 10% of their high school class.

UNC Online offers the same level of academic excellence and rigor, but allows students to achieve their degree entirely online without having to step foot on campus. The online graduate program at UNC-CH includes two distinct PhD programs that are offered 100% online. Both of these focus on a different aspect of the health sciences, including the Doctor of Physical Therapy transition program and the Public Health Executive Leadership program. They can be completed in 21 and 36 months respectively. Again, the online programs are treated one and the same as the traditional degree programming, same hard work expected, producing same trusted UNC brand outcomes (including the piece of paper at the end).

4. UNC at Greensboro

UNC Greensboro is one of the 17 Schools in the University of North Carolina System, though it certainly has its own identity with unique offerings and student population that it attracts. Though no longer an all women’s school, UNCG’s roots inform the many opportunities women and diverse populations have to succeed there. They actively pursue equity and inclusion as a mission to all of their programming.

Just like the other University of North Carolina institutions, UNCG offers extensive online course offerings that feature flexibility combined with the same high quality education that one would get on campus. They have a number of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs as well as the Interdisciplinary Doctor of Education in Kinesiology program , geared towards professionals who are already familiar with and engaged in the field. Though the program is delivered primarily online, there are three campus visits that are required throughout the course of the 4-year program.

5. East Carolina University

Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University is the third largest public school in the state. They are known for their high level of research and innovation. Inventions have come out of ECU, such as the electronic fluency device, a machine invented to help correct speech impediments such as stutters, by placing this device in the subjects ear so they can hear themselves when they speak. Also, fun fact, the first minimally invasive mitral valve heart surgery that was robotic-assisted was performed at ECU!

The ECU brand of excellence transcends the classroom and continues in the cyber world, as online course offerings geared towards adult learners are one of East Carolina’s specialties. Not only do they have a myriad of online bachelor’s and master’s degree granting programs, but they also offer a (DNP) Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and Nursing-Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program.

Applicants living outside of North Carolina seeking online study must first be sure authorization is secured from their state of residence, in order to achieve admission.

6. North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (also referred to as NC A&T or just A&T) is on a mission to change the world through research and initiatives that focus on leadership and community service. Institutionally, they pride themselves on inquiry and complex problem solving in disciplines such as business, technology, and the arts. They are located in Greensboro, North Carolina; the state’s third largest city.

A&T not only has extensive residential programs, but they have online program offerings that are equally resourced with the same faculty and curricula. A&T offers a variety of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree granting programs through their online institution, as well as offering two Doctoral programs. The Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies brings experienced students to the front lines of innovating holistic societal change. NC A&T Online also offers a unique Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management , which is a collaboration among a consortium of institutions offering PhDs in Technology Management.

7. UNC Wilmington

UNC Wilmington is often referred to by students as simply The Dub. They first opened their doors as a junior college in 1947, and their primary population were veterans returning from service in World War II. They have continued their tradition of training non-traditional adult learners, and have become known as a Master’s focused institution. Currently they have a number of programs that bring students from across the country and the globe to their campus, especially their renowned Marine Sciences program. They attract high achieving students, as noted by the average high school GPA of incoming freshman in 2016 was 4.16, and 1192 in SAT scores.

Not only does UNCW have noteworthy residential course offerings, but they have fully online PhD program offerings, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice , and several specializations within Education Leadership EdD, which requires no test scores for admission. Their online programming is geared towards flexibility, and meeting the needs of a diverse student body.

8. Gardner Webb University

GWU offers a low residency Educational Specialist (EdS) degree option within their School of Education. Those seeking this doctorate degree will learn the skills necessary to excel in education and executive leadership roles in a variety of settings.

Requirements for the EdS in Executive Leadership Studies program include having already obtained a master’s degree and minimum 3.0 GPA on all graduate-level work, as well as 3 years of administration experience. The program consists of 42-credit hours and can be completed fully online. The program employs an interactive model so that students can participate in discussions and web chats through their classes, providing the maximum benefit from individual experiences and communities of collaboration.

9. Piedmont International University

Piedmont International University is a leader in Bible Centered higher education, as well as an affordable choice for all levels of post-secondary education. Over 1.1 million dollars in financial aid is offered annually, and 96% of the student body receives some financial support.

Piedmont’s online options give students flexibility as they juggle work along with pursuing their degree. Furthermore, in many cases, students are given the opportunity to integrate their professional life with their course of study. One of their exciting programs is a PhD in Leadership/Doctor of Philosophy , and can be accomplished in as little as two years time. This online program requires one week long on campus residency in the first year of study. The major points of interest of this particular program are critical thinking, writing, learning, and scholarly research; all within a christian worldview biblical context.

10. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University is located in North Carolina’s scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, which defines much of their spirit, as an institution committed to serving the communities in it’s surrounding region. They are one of the 17 institutions in the University of North Carolina System. Graduates of Appalachian State enjoy a high success rate in job placement and/or furthering their education with advanced degrees. In the class of 2015-16 93 percent of graduate students and 86 percent of undergraduates either enrolled in graduate education within one year of graduation, or were successfully employed.

To cater to all of their students, which includes a diversity of needs, Appalachian State offers extensive distance learning and online programming options, which includes a doctoral program in Education Leadership . This is a hybrid degree program which includes asynchronous and synchronous online coursework as well as face-to-face classes that meet one night per week, on alternating weeks, with occasional weekend classes.

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Students like you are able to complete a North Carolina A&T State University education without traveling to a physical campus. A&T Online courses include the technology and learning approaches you need for a full educational experience that engages and empowers you. Our asynchronous online classes fit into your schedule when and where you want them.

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Online and Distance Education

You can be a Tar Heel from all over the world through a growing selection of online graduate programs and undergraduate classes, as well as a variety of additional distance ed credit or noncredit offerings from professional schools or UNC-Chapel Hill Digital and Lifelong Learning.

Of the public, for the public – in North Carolina and beyond

At its core, and fundamental to its future, Carolina is “of the public, for the public.” Historically, distance and continuing education has been a foundational part of this mission, serving as the “Gateway to Carolina” for the community. Looking ahead, this service mindset drives UNC-Chapel Hill’s planning via its strategic plan, Carolina Next: Innovations for Public Good.

Online and distance education look very different than they did even one year ago, but they are still ultimately about the students. We’re working to extend Carolina learning opportunities to those who might not otherwise have access, removing barriers to a great education. Along the way, we’re bringing the best of current standards and emerging trends to our online offerings.

We hope you’ll join us.

Facts & Figures

• 18 online degree programs
• 66,750 enrollments in online courses (2019-2020 academic year)
• 4,315 sections offered online (2019-2020 academic year)
• 46 departments/programs with online courses (2019-2020 academic year)
• 539 instructors teaching online courses (2019-2020 academic year)

Fall 2021 Online Courses

To support students as they make degree progress, the University continues to provide limited online course options for undergraduate students who need to attend remotely. We have carefully selected a range of courses that are likely to help most undergraduate students, and we will reserve seats for those students who have been identified as needing this flexibility before opening registration to all students.

View Fall 2021 online courses

Graduate Level Online Programs

Eshelman School of Pharmacy

• Master of Science Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Graduate School

•  Professional Science Master’s in Biomedical and Health Informatics

Kenan-Flagler Business School

• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Accounting

School of Government

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School of Media and Journalism

• Certificate in Digital Communication
• Master of Arts in Digital Communication

School of Information and Library Science

• Professional Science Master’s in Digital Curation and Management

School of Public Health

• Certificate in Community Preparedness and Disaster Management
• Certificate in Core Public Health Concepts
• Certificate in Field Epidemiology
• Certificate in Global Health
• Certificate in Occupational Health Nursing
• Certificate in Public Health Leadership
• Executive DrPH in Health Leadership
• Master’s in Health Administration in Public Health Policy and Management
• Master’s in Public Health in Public Health Leadership
• Master’s in Public Health in Public Health Policy and Management

Allied Health Sciences

• Master of Clinical Laboratory Science
• Master’s in Radiologic Science
• Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

Programs at other UNC institutions

Visit online.northcarolina.edu for current information about all online academic programs offered through the University of North Carolina System.

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)

The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement is a voluntary agreement among member states, districts and territories that establishes comparable national standards for interstate offering of postsecondary distance education courses and programs. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by postsecondary institutions based in another state. SARA is overseen by a National Council (NC-SARA) and administered by four regional education compacts.

North Carolina is a member state of SARA, through the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). UNC-Chapel Hill is a participating institution of SARA and authorized to offer distance education courses and programs to students located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories.

Student Complaints about Delivery of Distance Education

Reauthorization of the Higher Education Act includes regulations regarding the delivery of distance education to out-of-state residents. The United States Department of Education requires that institutions comply with any applicable state approval or educational requirements in each state to which distance education instruction is delivered.

Students have the right to file a complaint against an institution when these requirements are not followed or regarding the loss of tuition and fees as a result of unfair business practices. Institutions must provide both current and prospective students with contact information for filing complaints with its accrediting body and the appropriate state agency for handling complaints in a student’s resident state.

Examples of consumer protection complaints for SARA purposes include, but are not limited to:

• Accuracy of recruitment and marketing materials;
• Accuracy of job placement data;
• Accuracy of information about tuition, fees and financial aid;
• Complete and accurate admission requirements for courses and programs;
• Accuracy of information about the institution’s accreditation and/or any programmatic/specialized accreditation held by the institution’s programs;
• Accuracy of information about whether course work meets any relevant professional licensing requirements or the requirements of specialized accrediting bodies;
• Accuracy of information about whether the institution’s course work will transfer to other institutions; and
• Operation of distance education programs consistent with practices expected by institutional accreditors (and, if applicable, programmatic/specialized accreditors) and/or the Council of Regional Accrediting Commissions (C‐RAC) Guidelines for distance education.

If you have a complaint about UNC-Chapel Hill’s distance education programs and the issue could not be resolved internally,  read more and learn about options and resources related to student complaints about delivery of distance education.

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North Carolina Top Colleges and Universities:  North Carolina State University, East Carolina University, and University of North Carolina-Charlotte

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North Carolina Top Employers:  Bank of America, Lowe’s, and Nucor

Online PhD degrees offer students flexibility, convenience, and the ability to work while earning their degree. Students don’t have to commute to their classes or limit themselves to local higher education institutions. They simply complete their required curriculum wherever and whenever their schedules permit it. Additionally, students avoid the costs characteristic of on-campus education, such as commuting costs, living expenses, and school fees for on-campus events and services. Given the demand for online PhD programs in North Carolina, the state took steps to ensure its residents have ample access to online programs. One such step was becoming a participant in both the  Southern Regional Education Board  (SREB) and the SREB’s  Academic Common Market/Electronic Campus Program  (ACM/EC). Through the ACM/EC, North Carolinians have access not only to online doctoral programs in North Carolina, but programs in SREB participating states when a given degree or program is not offered in North Carolina college or university. Additionally, when students enroll in a course or degree program out of state, they pay in-state tuition. This opens up students’ options dramatically as they often must settle for their second or third degree program choice.

Your Online PhD In North Carolina

Several of North Carolina’s higher education institutions offer accredited PhD programs online that prepare students for working in the state’s largest industries and/or at the state’s largest corporations. A prime example is the  North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  (NCA&T). The university offers seven accredited online PhD programs. Its online PhD programs in Leadership Studies, and Energy and Environmental Systems open up doors to one of North Carolina’s largest industries, namely agriculture. Students in these programs will graduate with the academic background and skills to be successful in management positions as well as those in environmental sciences and sustainable bio-products. NCA&T’s various online engineering programs are truly extensive. It offers five online doctoral programs in engineering , including nanoengineering, mechanical engineering, industrial and systems engineering, electrical engineering, and computational science and engineering. Graduates of these programs are fully prepared to enter into North Carolina’s textile and furniture industries, as well as the Nucor Corporation, which is one of the state’s largest employers. Nucor Corporation is the  largest producer of steel  in the nation and retains thousands of North Carolinian employees.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

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Why earn your degree online at UNC Greensboro?

UNC Greensboro’s online degree programs allow students of any age the flexibility to earn their degree on their own schedule. Our online programs are consistently recognized for academic excellence and affordability, from best online to best bachelor’s and master’s programs, reflecting our ongoing commitment to student success. Whether you’re earning your first undergraduate degree or looking to advance your career with a graduate degree or certificate, our world-class faculty and accredited online curriculums will help you achieve your goals, with all of the same support as our on-campus students.

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We offer the following online master’s and online doctorate programs. Click on the program name for a link to the department website and application requirements. To be eligible to apply, you must have an undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree. Have questions? Contact us now .

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Doctoral Degree

A doctoral degree allows an individual to teach at the university level and work in specific professions, and is the highest postgraduate degree offered at the graduate level.  UNC Charlotte offers both research and professional doctoral degrees, including the Ph.D., the D.N.P, the Ed.D., and the D.B.A.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or its U.S. equivalent, from a college or university accredited by an accepted accrediting body.  See the Graduate Catalog Glossary  for a list of accrediting bodies.  Some programs admit baccalaureate (bachelor’s degreed) students directly to the doctoral program, while others require applicants to have earned a master’s degree.
• GPA 3.0 in the bachelor’s degree program.  3.5 in the master’s degree program.  (Both on a 4.0 scale.)
• Prerequisites, where applicable, as indicated by specific doctoral program criteria.  Prospective doctoral students should consult with the Graduate Program Director to identify any prerequisites prior to application.
• A Statement of Purpose (essay) submitted online as part of the application submission process. The Statement should describe your experience, objectives for undertaking graduate study and research interests, if known. ( Note: Some graduate programs request specific items to be included in the Statement. Review the program web page for details. )
• Most programs require at least three Recommendation Forms from persons familiar with your academic and/or professional qualifications. These recommendations are submitted directly from your recommender via the online application system.
• Unofficial transcripts of all academic work attempted beyond high (secondary) school can be used for admission review. An official (officially certified) final transcript must be submitted if an applicant is offered admission.  International transcripts provided in a language other than English should be uploaded, but a translated version should be uploaded as well.
• Some programs may require a standardized admission test (i.e. GRE, MAT, GMAT) for which you will need to take and request your official scores be sent to us.  Check the website of the program to determine which test is required for admissions consideration.
• For non-native English language holders:  official and satisfactory English language proficiency scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are required.  A minimum score of 83 on the Internet-based TOEFL or a minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS is required.
• A nonrefundable, non transferable application fee of $75 USD (U.S. citizen and permanent resident applicants) or $85 USD (international applicants) for each application submitted.

Additional Information

• Acceptance to a doctoral program must be recommended by the department or college offering the program.  The Graduate School makes the final, official offer of admission. Meeting minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee acceptance to a program.
• Applicants with records of high quality who do not fulfill these admissions requirements should discuss with the Graduate Program Director other factors that may have a bearing on admission. Some programs have higher standards or additional admission requirements.

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Charlotte Online

Welcome to UNC Charlotte Online

At UNC Charlotte Online, we understand that education is a journey that spans a lifetime. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to advance your career, or seeking new skills, our online academic programs are designed to fit your needs. Our diverse offerings include baccalaureate completion programs, master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and professional credit all available online.

As part of a vibrant online community fueled by Niner Pride, you’ll experience an education that is both innovative and accessible.

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• Online Bachelor's Degrees UNC Charlotte is ranked among the top 10 best providers of online bachelor’s degrees in the nation including majors in Professional Studies, Political Science, Sociology, RN to BSN and more. Learn More
• Online Master's Degrees Including the Online MBA, Charlotte Online’s graduate programs are here to support working professionals in advancing their careers with flexible education. Our programs are nationally recognized for excellence in online master’s degrees in Education, Nursing and Engineering. Get Details
• Online Graduate Certificate Programs Our graduate certificates can stand alone to enhance your expertise or in some cases serve as a gateway to a master’s degree, providing you with versatile options to achieve your educational and career goals. More Information
• Online Doctoral Degrees Our online and blended doctoral degrees in education and nursing empower professionals to make a significant impact in their fields. Explore Now
• Professional Credit Charlotte Online provides professional credit programs as a flexible, affordable choice for lifelong learners and those seeking to boost their professional skills. Whether you want to brush up on a specific skill with a single course or enhance your career with a full certificate, we’ve got you covered. See More
• Boot Camps UNC Charlotte Boot Camps are online programs that equip you for a career in software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, user experience or artificial intelligence. With extensive student support and a wide array of resources, we provide an education that will help you find a path to success. Dive Deeper

We offer a diverse range of accredited online degrees and certificate programs designed to fit your busy lifestyle. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or a recent graduate, our flexible online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Each program is crafted to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

Join the Community

When you choose UNC Charlotte Online, you become part of a dynamic community of lifelong learners. Our students are passionate, driven, and diverse, contributing to a rich online learning environment. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with peers, network with industry professionals, and build relationships that extend beyond the virtual classroom.

At UNC Charlotte, your education is accessible and designed to support your busy life.

UNC Charlotte and Stanly Community College have joined forces to support working adult students.

UNC Charlotte has earned a spot among the top 10 best providers of online bachelor’s degrees in the nation.

UNC Charlotte’s online graduate programs received national recognition in U.S. News & World Report.

UNC Charlotte online learning leaders and advocates discussed ways to prepare for the growing demand for online programs.

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Online and Distance Programs

World-class programs taught by NC State faculty in varying formats to best suit your lifestyle and learning objectives.

NC State’s Online and Distance Education programs offer maximum flexibility without sacrificing quality. Our programs receive the same accreditation — and are taught by the same excellent faculty — as our in-person degrees. As a leading STEM university, NC State deploys best-in-class technology and learning solutions so you can access the academic curriculum regardless of your location or schedule.

In addition to flexibility, our programs:

• Lead to a variety of credentials such as graduate degrees (both  master’s  and  doctoral ), graduate certificates , teacher licensure , undergraduate certificates , and bachelor’s degree completion programs ;
• Represent many of NC State’s academic disciplines, which are organized within the university by college. The following colleges offer online or distance education programs: Agriculture and Life Sciences , Design , Education , Engineering , Humanities and Social Sciences , Management , Natural Resources , Sciences , and Textiles ;
• Are delivered in all 50 states and U.S. territories ;
• May lead to professional licensure in North Carolina and other states;
• Are offered in three delivery formats — fully online, onsite, or a hybrid of online and onsite. Learn more about our program formats here .

#7 for Online Graduate Engineering

We’re one of the best choices in the country for engineering professionals, according to U.S. News & World Report. (U.S. News and World Report, 2022)

#13 for Best Online MBA Program

Jenkins MBA has been consistently ranked as a top online MBA program in the nation. (Poets & Quants, 2022)

Nationally ranked programs in engineering, business and science

Ready to get started.

Getting started with your online program is easy. Below, you’ll find options to explore our degree programs, as well as non-degree studies for those who want to take an individual course or earn a certificate.

Explore programs

Browse and select a program of interest.

All online and distance programs 

Not looking for a program?

Check out our non-degree studies option.

Find out more 

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Graduate Education

Whatever your professional or academic goals are, a graduate degree from NC State can help you achieve them.

Fuel for the Future

At NC State’s Graduate School , you’ll join top students from all over the world who come here to learn, conduct research and grow in their field of choice.

No matter your path — sciences or humanities, part time or full time, academic or professional — NC State can help you reach your goals. Choose from more than 200 master’s and doctoral programs and graduate certificates, several of which are ranked among the top programs in the nation in their disciplines.

As you pursue your course of study in person or online, we’ll connect you with academic and financial support, as well as professional development in areas like teaching, writing, public speaking and language skills. Whether you’re deepening your expertise, entering the academy or climbing the next rung on your career ladder, we’re behind you.

160 Master’s Programs

62 doctoral programs, 9,500+ graduate students, the graduate school.

At NC State, graduate education is housed within the Graduate School, which offers all the information you’ll need about graduate programs, admissions, fellowships and grants, and professional development.

Real-World Innovation

NC State students learn by doing. Our students dig into interdisciplinary research that benefits North Carolina — and the world — while driving innovation across science, technology, agriculture, humanities and much more.

Our graduate students work and learn alongside award-winning faculty who are pioneers in their fields. They also partner with leading government, industry and nonprofit partners in the Research Triangle area and beyond who seek out our students for their expertise, innovation and problem-solving skills. And they don’t have to go far to do it — some of these partners are located on NC State’s cutting-edge Centennial Campus .

Find Your Program

Explore our 160 master’s and 62 doctoral programs to find the one that’s right for you.

Browse our offerings

Start Your Application

If you’ve decided you belong at NC State, we can’t wait to meet you.

Explore NC State

Get to know one of the world’s leading public research universities.

A Connected Community

Graduate students are essential to the NC State community, building lifelong bonds through campus organizations, student government, wellness and recreation, arts and culture, and service. You’ll find support among a diverse group of fellow students, both graduate and undergraduate, and have access to all the resources of our world-class university .

Beyond campus, you’ll find the thriving city of Raleigh , which is full of great food, family-friendly activities, beautiful outdoor spaces, and exciting academic and professional opportunities. It’s a great place to call home.

Admissions Information

Professional development programs, graduate student association, contact a graduate programs director.

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Clinical Mental Health Counseling

• Career Counselor
• Family / Behavioral Therapist

Application Deadlines

• Fall: On-Campus and On-Line Delivery: Dec. 15
• Summer 1: On-Campus and On-Line Delivery: Dec. 15
• Summer 2: On-Campus and On-Line Delivery: Dec. 15

Program Contacts

The online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a distance education master’s degree program for counseling professionals who wish to work in clinical mental health capacities. The program also prepares professionals in behavioral health fields to promote client wellness.

In addition to the traditional focus on developmental theory and the associated design and implementation of preventive interventions, the M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a foundation in clinical counseling theory and practice. Exploration of issues related to multicultural diversity is also reflected in the required coursework and the faculty-student community.

Both faculty and students enjoy an excellent relationship with professionals in the University Counseling Center, and many opportunities for relevant experience are provided through internships in various community entities. Students participate in individualized field experiences appropriate to their area of study.

In light of our commitment to multicultural diversity, we are particularly interested in attracting students from culturally diverse backgrounds. In recent years, we have increased the proportion of culturally different students from less than 5% to almost 20% of our degree candidates. Our curriculum content acknowledges the significance of cross-cultural perspectives in counseling theory, research and practice.

Visit the College of Education program website for more information.

Graduates of the M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling will meet course requirements for Professional Licensure in the state of North Carolina.

Eligibility

Applicants must submit:

• 3 recommendations from people who know your academic record and potential for graduate study (letters should be uploaded online)
• Official transcripts of all post-secondary education
• **Official statement of English Proficiency (TOEFL) for international students
• All students must be able to complete their field experiences (Practicum and Internship) in the state of North Carolina

Selection for admission is based on a number of considerations:

• Academic achievement, especially in the junior and senior undergraduate years, as well as performance in any graduate courses, is carefully evaluated for evidence of competence in intellectual inquiry.
• Performance ratings and recommendations from professions and supervisory personnel are also carefully examined for evidence of personal qualities requisite for professional competence.
• Demonstrated leadership activity and/or significant work experience represent additional important factors.
• Interview process – candidates are selected to be interviewed, barring significant geographical distances.
• Other additional materials are also welcome to supplement the application –such as a research paper, a video of some "helping" activity by the candidate, etc.

Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the Graduate School Priority Deadlines or the Program Deadlines. International students should also consider their specific deadline, which is earlier.

**Request the test center to send your scores directly to NC State when taking the exam; TOEFL Institution code 5496. Upload unofficial copy when submitting application.

Plan of Study

The online option is a three-year, part-time cohort program that requires students to take courses year-round including summer. Students begin in Summer II (June), and typically take two online classes in fall and in spring. During the final year, some on-campus (weekend) classes are required.

Career Prospects

Completion of a master's degree in counselor education is the first step to becoming licensed to practice as a mental health counselor in the state of North Carolina. Students are eligible to take licensing exams in their field during the final semester of the program.

Mental health professionals continue to be in demand. With increased awareness of mental health challenges, the need for trained professionals skilled in helping people learn coping skills and access psychiatric services also is increasing. Therapists and counseling professionals are key components of the mental health support system. Graduates of the MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling build rewarding and purposeful careers as therapists, couples counselors, family therapists, substance abuse counselors or counseling professionals.

News and Announcements

Aug 15, 2024

Yasmine Cuestas: ‘Everyone Deserves to Learn, to Grow, and to Prosper’

When Yasmine Cuestas decided to pursue her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling online through the NC State College of Education, she never expected the community she would find within her cohort. Now, along with her fellow students, Cuestas is looking forward to being able to make a positive impact on the mental health of others. 

Nov 29, 2021

Online M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Ranks No. 1

NC State’s online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling recently topped the list of best online master’s counseling programs according to besthealthdegrees.com. 

Jun 23, 2021

Sherika Lee: A Story of Resilience

Sherika Lee is living out her dreams of becoming a counselor thanks to NC State’s online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, a heart for service and pure determination. 

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UNC Online / Online Master’s Programs

UNC ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS

Influence change with unc’s online master’s degrees.

Through UNC-Chapel Hill’s online master’s degree programs, motivated professionals all around the world can receive access to the research, teaching and public service opportunities that are the hallmarks of a Carolina education.

Carolina graduate programs prepare you to not only reach the next stage of your career but also to improve lives through leadership, professional expertise and civic engagement in North Carolina and beyond.

BECOME A CAROLINA-CALIBER LEADER

Explore unc’s online master’s programs.

ALLIED HEALTH

• Master’s in Clinical Laboratory Science: Medical Laboratory Science Track
• Master’s in Radiologic Science

• Master of Accounting (MAC)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

DATA SCIENCE

HEALTH INFORMATICS

• Professional Science Master’s in Biomedical and Health Informatics

INFORMATION AND LIBRARY SCIENCE

• Professional Science Master’s in Digital Curation and Management

JOURNALISM AND MEDIA

• Master of Arts in Digital Communication (MADC)

• Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Master of Professional Science in Regulatory Science (MPS)

PUBLIC HEALTH

• Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

SOCIAL WORK

ADMISSIONS AND ENROLLMENT POLICIES

Each of UNC-Chapel Hill’s online master’s degree programs is offered through a professional school, which has unique admissions policies and requirements. Visit the webpage for the online master’s program you’re interested in to learn more about the enrollment process and application criteria.

Some online courses may require in-person final exams or proctored online exams. Find more information about exam proctoring for self-paced courses.

Request More Information