University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) vs High Point University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between UNC Wilmington and High Point University?

  UNC Wilmington (UNCW) is a public university known for its strong marine biology program and coastal location, offering a more traditional state university experience with a focus on affordability. High Point University (HPU) is a private university emphasizing a luxurious campus environment, experiential learning, and a career-focused approach with smaller class sizes and personalized attention.

• How do the academic programs compare between UNCW and HPU?

  UNCW excels in marine sciences, education, and nursing, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs within a public university framework. HPU focuses on business, communication, and health sciences, emphasizing experiential learning, internships, and a career-oriented curriculum. While both offer a variety of programs, HPU has a stronger emphasis on pre-professional training.

• What is the cost difference between attending UNCW and HPU?

  UNCW, as a public university, is significantly more affordable, especially for North Carolina residents. HPU, being a private institution, has a higher tuition cost. However, HPU offers various scholarships and financial aid packages, so it's important to compare the net cost after aid for both universities based on your individual circumstances.

• How do the campus environments differ between UNCW and HPU?

  UNCW offers a more traditional college campus atmosphere with a focus on academics and student life activities typical of a public university. HPU is known for its meticulously maintained and luxurious campus, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on creating a visually appealing and inspiring environment.

• What is the student life like at UNCW versus HPU?

  UNCW has a vibrant student life with a wide range of clubs, organizations, and activities, including a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation due to its coastal location. HPU emphasizes a structured and engaging student life with a focus on leadership development, social events, and a strong sense of community fostered by smaller class sizes and personalized attention.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at each university?

  UNCW generally has larger class sizes, reflecting its status as a public university. HPU prides itself on smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for more individualized attention from professors.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at UNCW and HPU?

  Both universities offer career services to assist students with internships and job placement. HPU places a strong emphasis on career preparation, integrating internships and experiential learning into the curriculum. UNCW also provides internship opportunities, particularly in fields related to marine science and coastal studies, but HPU's career-focused approach is a more central part of its identity.

• What is the location like for each university?

  UNCW is located in Wilmington, North Carolina, a coastal city offering access to beaches, water sports, and a vibrant downtown area. HPU is located in High Point, North Carolina, known as the 'Home Furnishings Capital of the World,' providing opportunities in design, marketing, and business related to the furniture industry. The location of UNCW is more attractive to students who enjoy coastal activities.

• What type of student typically thrives at UNCW versus HPU?

  UNCW is a good fit for students seeking an affordable, academically focused public university experience with a strong sense of community and access to coastal resources. HPU is well-suited for students who value a luxurious campus environment, personalized attention, career-focused education, and are willing to invest in a private university experience.

• Do UNCW and HPU have similar admission requirements?

  Both universities require a strong academic record, including high school GPA and standardized test scores (though policies may vary regarding test-optional admissions). HPU may place a greater emphasis on extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and a demonstrated commitment to personal growth, while UNCW may focus more heavily on academic performance.