For the first time in its history, UNC Charlotte has achieved a coveted position among the nation’s top 100 public universities, according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best College rankings.
The new national ranking also places Charlotte as one of the fastest-rising institutions in the nation, climbing 41 spots overall.
“With our largest-ever class of first-time college students this fall, rising enrollment overall and now our best national rankings, there is much to celebrate here at Charlotte,” Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber said. “However, this is just the beginning as we pursue a bold vision as one of this nation’s great public research universities. Through innovative student success initiatives, Charlotte has made significant strides over the past decade, with rising graduation and retention rates, work that is continuing. It’s exciting to see Charlotte being recognized for the work we’re doing to help students of all backgrounds succeed.”
Over the past decade, Charlotte has demonstrated significant gains in several key metrics used by U.S. News, including six-year graduation rates, first-year retention, graduate debt, and the graduation rates for first-generation and Pell-eligible students.
Charlotte’s overall ranking is No. 178 (tie), its highest ranking since debuting as a national university in 2008. Among public universities, Charlotte is No. 96 (tie).
The rankings reflect U.S. News’ revamped methodology, which places a heightened emphasis on economic mobility and graduation outcomes. Read more about UNC Charlotte’s strong gains and additional rankings here.