ECU named Best for Vets
East Carolina University is in the top 25% of universities and colleges recognized as Best for Vets by the Military Times.
ECU ROTC cadets train at the rappelling tower.
ECU is ranked fifth in North Carolina, 19th in the southeast and 58th nationally among public universities. Overall, ECU ranks 72nd out of 304 colleges nationwide, up from 110th last year. Eleven schools in North Carolina were included in the rankings.
“Our Best for Vets ranking highlights ECU’s dedication to supporting its military-affiliated community,” said Dr. Nicole Binder, director of the Military & Veterans Resource Center (MRVC) at ECU. “The MVRC team remains committed to providing a broad range of comprehensive programs that aid service members in their transition through higher education and equip them for future career success.”
The Military Times provides what is considered the most extensive and credible military-friendly university rankings, Binder said.
Each year, the Military Times surveys U.S. colleges and universities to evaluate programs that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military service members and veterans in their educational journey. Responses are analyzed along with public data obtained from the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs to produce a trusted, unbiased ranking, according to the Military Times.
ECU has appeared in the rankings for several years as on-campus support and programming continues to grow. There are more than 700 student veterans enrolled on campus. Additionally, more than 1,900 ECU students use VA education benefits to help pay for school, Binder said.
ECU student cadets participate in training in 2021.
Last year, ECU’s Military & Veterans Resource Center moved into a new, larger space in Room 282 in the Main Campus Student Center. The center provides holistic services to support the transition of student veterans as they leave the military, enroll at the university, or prepare to graduate and enter new careers, Binder said.
The center offers a physical space for studying, a social area, kitchen and wellness room. It also provides mentoring and counseling on Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs benefits and financial aid. Programs offered include veteran specific orientation and programming, the Truist Veterans Leadership Academy, a veteran graduate recognition celebration and social events. Donors have set up scholarships and assistance for textbook purchases for student veterans.
ECU offers flexible degree programs, VA work-study assistance, Air Force and Army ROTC programs, and the Pirate Veterans Organization for students. All active-duty service members and veterans receive priority class registration.
The MVRC offers Green Zone training, a two-hour training course for faculty and staff to become a supportive and knowledgeable contact for military-affiliated students at ECU, helping to create a veteran-friendly environment for student success.
In 2021, ECU opened an office at the Jerry Marvel Training and Education building at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, offering active-duty personnel, reservists, eligible retired military personnel and Department of Defense employees and their families face-to-face communications and opportunities to take some classes through the Department of Technology Systems in the College of Engineering and Technology.
The 2024 rankings can be found on the Military Times Best for Vets website.
Service members are recognized by Chancellor Philip Rogers during a 2023 military appreciation football game.