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North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

"Think and Do"

1887
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
26,389
Total Students
27,885
Undergrad
9,347
Graduate
$2.5B
Endowment
(2025)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
40%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Graduation Rate
6-year
93%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About North Carolina State University at Raleigh

NC State: Pioneering research, innovation, and a vibrant Wolfpack spirit since 1887.

North Carolina State University at Raleigh, affectionately known as NC State, stands as a powerhouse of innovation and a cornerstone of the prestigious Research Triangle. As the largest university in the Carolinas and a public land-grant research institution, NC State is driven by its inspiring motto, "Think and Do." It's classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," consistently pushing the boundaries of discovery and practical application.

From its founding in 1887 as a college focused on agriculture and mechanic arts, NC State has evolved into a comprehensive university with deep historical strengths across diverse fields. It was a pioneering institution, adapting through name changes, significant growth post-World War II thanks to the G.I. Bill, and bravely integrating its first African-American undergraduates in 1956. This rich history showcases a commitment to both academic excellence and societal progress.

Academically, NC State shines brightly in areas like engineering, statistics, agriculture, life sciences, textiles, and design. The university offers a vast array of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, including a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Beyond the classrooms and labs, the "Wolfpack" spirit is palpable, with NCAA Division I athletic teams that have clinched multiple national championships, creating a dynamic and engaging student experience.

Prospective students and families will find a vibrant campus in Raleigh, North Carolina, fostering a community dedicated to innovation and real-world impact. With its impressive Centennial Campus, a hub for collaboration with private and government partners, NC State offers unparalleled opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research and prepare for impactful careers.

Key Highlights

  • Largest university in the Carolinas, serving over 39,000 students annually.
  • A foundational corner of the renowned Research Triangle, alongside Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its research prowess.
  • Endowment valued at $2.5 billion, supporting extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Strong academic programs in Engineering, Agriculture, Design, Textiles, Life Sciences, and Statistics.
  • Wolfpack athletics boast 6 NCAA championships, including two in men's basketball.
  • Developed the expansive Centennial Campus, investing over $620 million and hosting 61 partners.

Timeline

1887
Founded as North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, a land-grant college.
1917
Name changed to North Carolina State College of Agriculture and Engineering.
1931
Administratively combined into the University of North Carolina system.
1947
Enrollment surpassed 5,000; School of Architecture and Landscape Design established.
1956
Enrolled its first African-American undergraduates following Brown v. Board of Education.
1965
Officially became North Carolina State University at Raleigh (though 'at Raleigh' is often omitted).
1987
Celebrated centennial; schools reorganized into colleges; Centennial Campus gained 700 acres.
2023
Poe Hall closed due to detection of polychlorinated biphenyls.
🏛️
139 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within North Carolina State University at Raleigh

🎨

College of Design

Originally the School of Architecture and Landscape Design (1947), renamed School of Design in 1948.

📚

College of Education

Established as the School of Education in 1948.

🏫

College of Forestry

Established as the School of Forestry in 1950.

🔬

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Added as the School of Humanities and Social Sciences in the 1970s.

⚙️

College of Engineering

A historically strong area, renamed from School of Engineering during the 1987 reorganization.

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