The University of North Carolina System is a public university system in North Carolina, consisting of 17 campuses. It was established in 1971 and aims to provide accessible education to residents of the state. The system offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, and professional studies. Each campus operates independently but collaborates on certain initiatives and programs. The system serves over 250,000 students and is known for its commitment to research, public service, and community engagement. Notable institutions within the system include University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University.