The University of North Carolina Wilmington is a public research university in Wilmington, North Carolina. It is part of the University of North Carolina System and enrolls 17,499 undergraduate and graduate students each year. It is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity".The college that opened its doors to 238 students in 1947 has evolved into a nationally ranked university of nearly 18,000 students that is recognized for its commitment to excellence, student-centered learning experiences, diversity, innovation and community engagement. .The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching and mentoring with research and service. UNCW is commitment to student engagement, creative inquiry, critical thinking, thoughtful expression, and responsible citizenship is expressed in its baccalaureate and masters’ programs, as well as doctoral programs in areas of expertise that serve state needs.UNCW culture reflects its values of diversity and globalization, ethics and integrity, and excellence and innovation. The University of North Carolina Wilmington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. As part of the 17-campus UNC System, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice and psychology. The university also offers many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to-BSN program and an Executive MBA program structured for working professionals.