Top 3 AI Programs in North Carolina 2025
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
427 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 93% graduation rate
Duke University
410 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
644 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 76% graduation rate
- 1.North Carolina has 15+ accredited AI and machine learning programs across top-tier universities in the Research Triangle
- 2.Duke University ranks #1 in North Carolina with 95% graduation rate and direct Research Triangle Park recruiting pipeline
- 3.NC State offers exceptional value at $9,101 in-state tuition with strong industry partnerships including Red Hat and IBM
- 4.North Carolina AI engineers earn median $118,500 annually—15% above the national median (BLS North Carolina 2024)
- 5.Research Triangle Park houses 150+ AI companies including IBM, SAS, Red Hat, and major pharmaceutical AI divisions
Artificial Intelligence Education in North Carolina
North Carolina has emerged as a premier destination for artificial intelligence education, anchored by the Research Triangle Park—one of the world's largest technology centers. The state's combination of world-class universities and direct access to industry leaders creates exceptional opportunities for AI students.
The Research Triangle, formed by Duke University, NC State, and UNC Chapel Hill, provides unique advantages including direct industry partnerships, research opportunities, and internship pipelines. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national AI bachelor's rankings. Students interested in career outcomes should review our AI/ML engineer salary guide for North Carolina-specific compensation data.
North Carolina AI Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | Public | $7,019 | 93% | — | 86.8 |
| 2 | Duke University | Durham, NC | Private | $63,450 | — | — | 77.4 |
| 3 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | Public | $3,812 | 76% | — | 76.3 |
| 4 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | Public | $6,535 | 85% | — | 74.9 |
| 5 | Davidson College | Davidson, NC | Private | $59,510 | 100% | — | 67.1 |
| 6 | Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem, NC | Private | $63,608 | 97% | — | 65.9 |
| 7 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | Public | $4,443 | 79% | — | 53.3 |
| 8 | Elon University | Elon, NC | Private | $44,029 | 94% | — | 53 |
| 9 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | Public | $4,242 | 78% | — | 49.2 |
| 10 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | Public | $3,540 | 84% | — | 49.1 |
| 11 | High Point University | High Point, NC | Private | $38,748 | 76% | — | 45.3 |
| 12 | Shaw University | Raleigh, NC | Private | $12,408 | — | — | 44.6 |
| 13 | Carolina University | Winston-Salem, NC | Private | $13,400 | 59% | — | 44.1 |
| 14 | Gardner-Webb University | Boiling Springs, NC | Private | $32,470 | 93% | — | 43.6 |
| 15 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | Public | $4,422 | — | — | 41.2 |
Showing 1–15 of 24
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in North Carolina: Side-by-Side
| School | UNC Chapel Hill | NC State | Duke | U of North Carolina at... | Davidson College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $7,019 | $6,535 | $63,450 | $3,812 | $59,510 |
| Graduation Rate | 93% | 85% | N/A% | 76% | 100% |
| Annual Graduates | 427 | 401 | 410 | 644 | 54 |
| Acceptance Rate | 19% | 40% | 7% | 80% | 14% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Private |
| Score | 86.8/100 | 79.4/100 | 77.4/100 | 76.3/100 | 70.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in North Carolina
North Carolina offers 24 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $75,138 in the North Carolina market.
A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UNC Chapel Hill | $7,019 | 93% | 427 | 86.8 |
| #2 Duke | $63,450 | N/A% | 410 | 77.4 |
| #3 U of North Carolina at... | $3,812 | 76% | 644 | 76.3 |
Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in North Carolina
For graduate study, North Carolina offers 9 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include North Carolina State University at Raleigh, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in North Carolina reaching $139,542 or more.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in North Carolina
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 NC State | $6,535 | 85% | 401 | 79.4 |
| #2 U of North Carolina at... | $3,812 | 76% | 383 | 75.5 |
| #3 UNC Chapel Hill | $7,019 | 93% | 35 | 64.5 |
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in North Carolina
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in North Carolina are at Elizabeth City State University ($1,000/year), Western Carolina University ($1,000/year), Fayetteville State University ($1,000/year). These programs offer strong ROI given North Carolina's competitive tech salaries.
At Elizabeth City State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $4,000 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $75,138, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.1 years.
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in North Carolina (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Elizabeth City State | $1,000 | $4,000 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #2 Western Carolina | $1,000 | $4,000 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #3 Fayetteville State | $1,000 | $4,000 | 0.1 years | Public |
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,019 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 427 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 19%
- • Ranking Score: 86.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 427 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 86.8 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (427 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,340), and selectivity (19% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UNC Chapel Hill's Data Science program offers comprehensive AI and machine learning education through six core competencies including responsible data science, with opportunities for mentored research and internships. The program emphasizes both technical foundations and ethical considerations in AI development.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 130, 152, 210, 231, 129P, or PHIL 155, or STOR 120, 151, 155
- •DATA 110
- •DATA 120
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.000
Program Details
- Credits: 45 academic credit hours
Available Specializations / Concentrations
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,535 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 401 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 40%
- • Ranking Score: 79.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 401 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 79.4 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (401 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,340), and selectivity (40% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
NC State offers a Computer Science degree with an Artificial Intelligence concentration that supports the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative and provides hands-on experience through Senior Design projects with potential industry sponsors. The program is ABET-accredited and located on the modern Centennial Campus.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus I
- •Calculus II
- •Chemistry
- •Physics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.8
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Duke University
Durham, NC • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,450 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 410 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 7%
- • Ranking Score: 77.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 410 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 77.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (410 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,340), and selectivity (7% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Duke's AI and Machine Learning concentration offers a comprehensive curriculum with specialized courses in computer vision, natural language processing, and deep learning. The program provides flexibility with multiple elective options and covers both theoretical foundations and applied machine learning approaches.
Admission Prerequisites
- •One of COMPSCI 101L, 102, or 116
- •MATH 111L - Introductory Calculus I
- •MATH 112L - Introductory Calculus II
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $3,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 76% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 644 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 76.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 76% graduation rate
- 644 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 76.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (76%), program size (644 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,340), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UNC Charlotte offers comprehensive AI education from undergraduate to graduate levels with 100% online options for working professionals. The programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning with project-based courses and built-in flexibility to explore AI applications across diverse fields.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Two semesters of calculus
- •One semester of discrete structures
- •College Algebra
- •Current working knowledge of two higher level programming languages including at least one procedural language
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.8 for graduate certificate, 2.5 for BS program
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits for BS, 12 credits for graduate certificate, 30 credits for MS
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Davidson College
Davidson, NC • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $59,510 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 54 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 14%
- • Ranking Score: 70.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 54 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 70.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (100%), program size (54 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,340), and selectivity (14% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
The Research Triangle Advantage for AI Students
The Research Triangle Park (RTP) provides North Carolina AI students with unparalleled access to industry leaders, internships, and career opportunities. Home to over 150 technology companies, RTP serves as the Southeast's Silicon Valley for artificial intelligence and data science.
Major AI employers in the Research Triangle include IBM (AI research division), SAS (analytics and AI), Red Hat (cloud AI solutions), Cisco (networking AI), and numerous pharmaceutical companies leveraging AI for drug discovery. This concentration creates exceptional internship and full-time opportunities for students.
- IBM Research Triangle Park: Leading AI research facility with student internship programs
- SAS Institute: Analytics giant headquartered in Cary with extensive AI initiatives
- Red Hat: Open source leader with growing AI and machine learning teams
- Cisco Systems: Major RTP presence focusing on network AI and automation
- MetLife Global Technology: Insurance AI applications and data science teams
- Credit Suisse: Financial AI and algorithmic trading development
- Pharmaceutical cluster: Biogen, GSK, and others using AI for drug discovery
Students benefit from guest lectures by industry professionals, collaborative research projects, and direct recruitment pipelines. Many programs offer capstone projects with RTP companies, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities that often lead to full-time offers.
Career Paths
Develop and deploy machine learning models for applications ranging from healthcare AI to financial algorithms. Strong demand in Research Triangle Park.
Apply statistical analysis and machine learning to solve business problems. High demand in pharmaceutical and financial services sectors.
Build AI-powered applications and systems. Opportunities span from startups to major corporations in the Research Triangle.
Research Scientist
Conduct cutting-edge AI research at universities, national labs, or corporate research divisions. Strong opportunities at Duke, NC State, and industry labs.
Other Tech Degree Programs in North Carolina
AI Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Which Should You Choose?
- You want direct access to Research Triangle Park opportunities
- You prefer smaller programs with strong industry connections
- You're interested in AI applications in healthcare or finance
- You value affordable public education with excellent outcomes
- You want to be part of the growing Southeast tech ecosystem
- You need access to major tech hubs like Silicon Valley or Seattle
- You prefer large research universities with massive CS programs
- You're focused on AI startups and venture capital access
- You need specific AI specializations not offered in NC programs
- Climate and geography are major factors in your decision
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina AI Programs
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific artificial intelligence salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related AI Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics from 2023 survey
May 2024 state occupational employment and wage estimates for computer and mathematical occupations
2024 analysis of technology employment and company presence in the Research Triangle region
University research funding data for AI and computer science programs
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