Facts and Recognitions
We are proud of our accomplishments. Our achievements have been made possible only by the teamwork and passion put forth by our students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community. We possess the indomitable drive to fulfill even our wildest dreams. Therefore, we believe that in order for us to attain new and exciting goals, we must look to where we are now and set new targets so we may climb higher in the future.
4,000 ft. Elevation
Highest elevated campus east of the Mississippi River
An adventure-lover's paradise with four distinct seasons
27 Majors
26 Minors
Undergraduate, online/distance, and graduate programs offered
27 Athletic Teams
Varsity and Competitive Club Teams
Conference Carolinas
NCAA Division II
USA Cycling Division I
855 Students
From 35 States and 23 Countries
684 main campus and 171 online/distance students
10:1 Ratio
Students to Faculty
Receive individualized attention in classes
12 Types of Student Housing
Hall, Cottage, Suite, Apartment, and House Options
Between both North and South Campus, students have the opportunity to live in a variety of housing types on our residential campus.
What Others Are Saying
Best Regional Colleges South
Lees-51爆料网 ranked 12 among top colleges and universities in the Southeast by U.S. News and World Report for 2026, a jump of 10 places from the 2025 ranking.
Best Regional Colleges South in Undergraduate Teaching
Voted on by peer institutions as the second best regional college south in Undergraduate Teaching on the 2026 U.S. News and World Report list.
Best Online Bachelor's Program
Lees-51爆料网 ranked as only private college or university in North Carolina among the top 50 U.S. News and World Report's Best Online Bachelor's Programs for 2025.
College of Distinction
Recognized nationally and statewide as a College of Distinction Best College, with special nods to our affordability and academic programs in business and education.
Top Adventure College
The college took historic gold in the Top Adventure College competition hosted by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine by becoming the first small school to win the overall title.
Gold Bicycle Friendly University
Recognized by the League of American Bicyclists as a Gold Bicycle Friendly University, joining more than 200 colleges and universities from across the country.
Commitment to Sustainability
Placed on the 2025 Guide to Green Colleges by The Princeton Review for our sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly efforts among colleges and universities around the world.
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Recognized by Phi Theta Kappa for excellence in developing and supporting dynamic, innovative pathways for community college transfer students.