UNC Charlotte has achieved new milestones in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, reflecting significant progress in both academics and research. The university moved up 15 spots to No. 81 among U.S. public universities and climbed 26 spots to No. 152 nationally. This achievement is driven by improvements in graduation rates, first-year retention, and reduced student debt, with research expenditure increases contributing to its rise. Charlotte is also the only public university in North Carolina listed in the “Most Innovative Schools” ranking at No. 45.
“At UNC Charlotte, we are setting records as we move toward becoming the nation’s next preeminent public research university,” said Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber in a press release. “With record enrollment this fall, record graduation and retention rates, and record research expenditures, there’s an unstoppable momentum at Charlotte. Our rise in the rankings reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff, who are deeply committed to transforming the lives of our students.”
UNC Charlotte’s continued growth in research, particularly through the Ignite initiative, positions it as an academic powerhouse. Research expenditures have soared 272% over the last decade, signaling the university’s progress toward the prestigious Carnegie R1 designation for research excellence. Additionally, the university’s nursing program rose 58 spots to No. 54 in national rankings, while programs in business, engineering, and psychology maintain strong national standings. The school also continues to lead in social mobility, rising 10 spots to No. 62.
As UNC Charlotte strengthens its position in higher education, it has seen notable achievements in supporting Pell Grant-eligible students and veterans. Its commitment to affordability and support for veteran students has been recognized, with the university jumping 17 spots to No. 106 for Best Colleges for Veterans. These advancements are further reflected in U.S. News’ specialty categories, where Charlotte ranks as a top performer, emphasizing both value and social mobility.
