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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: A 'Think and Do' powerhouse driving innovation as the Carolinas' largest land-grant research university.

North Carolina State University, affectionately known as NC State, stands as a beacon of innovation and practicality in Raleigh, North Carolina. Anchoring one corner of the esteemed Research Triangle alongside Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill, this public land-grant research university lives by its powerful motto, "Think and Do." It's a place where groundbreaking research meets real-world application, shaping leaders and advancements across diverse fields.

Founded in 1887 as a college dedicated to agriculture and mechanic arts, NC State has a rich history of growth and transformation. From its early days providing practical education to its pivotal role in integrating public education in the South, the university has continuously evolved. Today, with over 39,000 students, it's not only the largest university in the Carolinas but also a vibrant academic community committed to addressing global challenges and fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Academically, NC State boasts exceptional strength across numerous disciplines, particularly in engineering, statistics, agriculture, life sciences, textiles, and design. The university offers an impressive breadth of programs, including bachelor's degrees in 106 fields, master's in 104, doctoral degrees in 61 fields, and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Beyond the classroom, students embrace the spirited "Wolfpack" identity, cheering on their NCAA Division I athletic teams to national championships, creating a lively and engaging campus experience.

With significant investments in its state-of-the-art Centennial Campus, NC State continues to forge partnerships with private and government agencies, driving forward its mission of high-impact research and education. It's a university where tradition meets innovation, preparing students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and contribution.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its significant research output.
  • The largest university in the Carolinas, serving over 39,000 students across its diverse programs.
  • A foundational pillar of the Research Triangle, collaborating with Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
  • Holds a substantial endowment of approximately $2.5 billion, supporting its educational and research endeavors.
  • Renowned for its strong academic programs in engineering, agriculture, life sciences, textiles, statistics, and design.
  • The Wolfpack athletic teams compete in NCAA Division I, having won six national championships.
  • Continues to expand and innovate with its Centennial Campus, featuring over $620 million in facilities and 61 partners.

Timeline

1887
Founded as North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, a land-grant college.
1889
First freshman class enrolls, officially opening the 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 surpasses 5,000 students following World War II; School of Architecture and Landscape Design established.
1956
Enrolled its first African-American undergraduates, marking a significant step in integration.
1965
Officially became North Carolina State University at Raleigh, its current official name.
1987
Celebrated its centennial, reorganizing schools into colleges and gaining land for Centennial Campus.
2023
Poe Hall closed due to detection of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB).
🏛️
139 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within North Carolina State University at Raleigh

⚙️

College of Engineering

A leading college with historical strengths in engineering and established a graduate program in 1937, officially becoming a college in 1987.

🎨

College of Design

Established as the School of Architecture and Landscape Design in 1947 and renamed the School of Design in 1948, known for its creative programs.

📚

College of Education

Founded as the School of Education in 1948, offering comprehensive programs for aspiring educators.

🏫

College of Natural Resources

Originating from the School of Forestry established in 1950, focusing on the sustainable management of natural resources.

🔬

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Added in the 1970s, providing a broad range of studies in the humanities and social sciences.

🏥

College of Veterinary Medicine

Offers a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, reflecting its commitment to advanced veterinary science and practice.

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