Campbell University is the top private university in North Carolina for supporting military service members, veterans and their families, the Military Times says.
Nationally, Campbell ranked 28th among private, not for-profit colleges and universities.
The Military Times recently released its 2025 Best for Vets: Colleges, which includes 357 institutions and marks the largest field in the program’s history, as well as a substantial increase from 304 in 2024, a news release says.
“The growth,” Military Times says, “underscores the expanding network of colleges prioritizing veteran success through targeted programs, financial support and student-veteran communities.”
Campbell, which ranked 43rd in the Southeast, finished 173 overall and 137 in General Education.
Being recognized as the No. 1 private school in North Carolina for the second consecutive year by Best for Vets is more than an accolade, says Amanda McRae, director of Veterans Affairs.
The ranking also reflects Campbell’s unwavering commitment to those who have served and to their families.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated team whose passion and hard work make this mission possible every day,” McRae says.
“At Campbell, we strive to create an environment where veterans and their families can thrive academically, professionally and personally. Looking ahead, we are building on this momentum to strengthen and expand our Veterans Support Program, ensuring we continue to enhance the resources and opportunities available to those who have served and their families.”
Nicole M. Winget, dean of Adult and Online Education and a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, is proud of the Campbell University team and their ongoing commitment to military members and their families, during their time in service and beyond.
“At Campbell University, supporting our military-connected students isn’t just a program; it’s a promise that spans every school and campus,” Winget says. “From Buies Creek to our extended campuses at Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune and beyond, we integrate veteran success into the heart of our mission.
“The Veterans Affairs team works hard to make sure Campbell University exceeds expectations and offers exceptional support to all our military affiliated students.”
Military Times collects data from an extensive survey from colleges across the country. Institutions are evaluated on academic quality, student support services, affordability and outcomes for veterans, including graduation and retention rates, the news release says.
Jon Simkins, executive editor of Military Times and Sightline Media Group, says that for 15 years Best for Vets has helped transitioning service members find schools that not only welcome veterans but actively invest in their success.
“The record-breaking participation this year shows that higher education leaders are listening and working to create environments where veterans can thrive academically and personally.”
Key trends from the 2025 survey include:
Increased participation among public universities and community colleges, signaling broader institutional engagement.
A surge in online and hybrid program options, which continue to support active-duty and Guard/Reserve students.
Growth in dedicated veteran resource centers, peer mentorship networks and mental health services tailored to post-service transition.
The full 2025 ranking, along with an interactive database of schools, can be found at bestforvets.militarytimes.com/colleges
