NC State University

Raleigh, NC US News #72

45.0%

Acceptance Rate

1340

Avg SAT

Avg ACT

4.35

Avg GPA

North Carolina State University, founded in 1887, stands as North Carolina's largest public university and a national leader in STEM education, agriculture, and technology. Located in Raleigh at the heart of the Research Triangle, NC State combines the resources of a major research institution with the welcoming culture of a land-grant university committed to improving lives through education and engagement. With approximately 37,000 students and 65,000 employees, NC State ranks among the nation's largest employers while maintaining Carnegie R1 classification for very high research activity. Annual research expenditures exceed $450 million, with particular strengths in engineering, agriculture, textiles, veterinary medicine, and computer science. NC State's strategic location in the Research Triangle provides unique advantages for students and researchers alike. The region hosts one of the world's largest research parks, numerous technology companies, and the headquarters of major pharmaceutical and biotech firms. This concentration of innovation creates exceptional opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and employment. The university's pack mentality emphasizes community and mutual support, with students taking pride in their identity as Wolfpack members. NC State's combination of rigorous academics, practical preparation, and strong sense of belonging produces graduates ready to make immediate contributions in their fields. The university's motto, "Think and Do," captures its emphasis on applied learning that makes a difference.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate: 45.0%
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Avg GPA: 4.35

Campus & Students

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Outcomes & Cost

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Student Life & Environment

Student life at NC State University combines the spirited traditions of Wolfpack athletics with diverse opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement. The legendary rivalry with UNC-Chapel Hill defines the college sports calendar, with basketball games against the Tar Heels generating intensity that few rivalries can match. Carter-Finley Stadium comes alive on football Saturdays, with tens of thousands of fans in red creating an electric atmosphere that showcases Wolfpack pride. More than 700 student organizations provide opportunities for involvement in everything from academic and professional societies to cultural groups, performing arts, and recreational clubs. Greek life maintains a significant presence with dozens of fraternities and sororities offering social connections, leadership development, and service engagement. The Talley Student Union serves as the campus living room, featuring dining options, meeting spaces, and programming that brings the community together. Carmichael Recreation Complex provides exceptional fitness facilities, intramural sports, and outdoor adventure programs. Living-learning villages connect residential students with academic programs and communities of shared interest. The annual Packapalooza welcome event celebrates the start of each academic year. Student government provides meaningful leadership opportunities and amplifies student voice in university governance. Campus traditions from the Belltower lighting to the Free Expression Tunnel create shared experiences that unite Wolfpack members.

Location & Surroundings

Raleigh, North Carolina's capital city and part of the renowned Research Triangle, provides NC State students with an exceptional environment that combines economic opportunity with outstanding quality of life. The Research Triangle region, anchored by NC State, Duke, and UNC-Chapel Hill, has emerged as one of America's foremost innovation hubs, with technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical companies creating abundant internship and career opportunities. Research Triangle Park, the nation's largest research park, hosts major operations for companies including IBM, Cisco, and GlaxoSmithKline, directly adjacent to the NC State campus. Raleigh's growth has accelerated dramatically, with the city consistently ranking among America's best places to live for young professionals. Downtown Raleigh offers a thriving cultural scene with restaurants, music venues, museums, and nightlife that draw students beyond campus. The moderate climate enables outdoor recreation throughout the year, with the North Carolina coast and Appalachian Mountains each within a few hours' drive. The city's commitment to green spaces provides extensive parks and trails for running, cycling, and outdoor activities. Cost of living remains reasonable compared to major metropolitan areas on the coasts. The airport provides convenient connections throughout the country. The combination of professional opportunity, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes the Triangle an exceptional place to spend four years and launch a career.

Costs & Career Outcomes

NC State University delivers exceptional educational value, with tuition rates that remain among the most affordable for a research university of its caliber, reflecting North Carolina's historic commitment to accessible public higher education. North Carolina residents benefit from in-state tuition that represents outstanding value for a comprehensive research university experience. The university awards approximately $400 million annually in financial aid, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The Goodnight Scholars Program provides full scholarships for exceptional students committed to careers in STEM fields and teaching. Park Scholarships recognize exceptional students with comprehensive awards covering tuition, room, board, and enrichment opportunities. Need-based programs including the Carolina Covenant-style initiatives ensure that qualified students can access NC State regardless of economic circumstances. Career Services provides comprehensive support including resume development, interview preparation, career fairs, and employer connections. The Research Triangle's concentration of technology, pharmaceutical, and financial services companies creates exceptional internship and employment opportunities. Major employers including Red Hat, SAS, Cisco, and countless others actively recruit NC State graduates. The powerful alumni network, spanning over 250,000 graduates, provides mentorship and professional connections. Starting salaries for NC State graduates, particularly in engineering and computer science, compare favorably with graduates of peer institutions. The combination of affordable tuition and strong career placement represents excellent return on investment.