Overview
Elizabeth City State University was founded in 1891 as a normal school to train Black teachers, and it has grown into a comprehensive public university within the University of North Carolina system. Located in the Historic Albemarle region, ECSU has built a strong reputation for its aviation science program, one of the few offered at an HBCU, as well as its programs in nursing, criminal justice, and STEM fields supported by NASA and Department of Defense partnerships. The university has long served as an engine of upward mobility for first-generation and underserved students in eastern North Carolina.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Elizabeth City, North Carolina |
| Founded | 1891 |
| Total students | 2,100 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 72% |
| Graduation rate | 40% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $3,300 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $18,900 |
| Room & board | $9,500 |
| Average financial aid | $8,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 92% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 850-1010 |
| ACT range | 15-18 |
| Average GPA | 3.00 |
| Regular deadline | August 1 |
Top Programs
- Aviation Science
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary Education
- Biology/Pre-Med
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.