University Catalog 2023-2024

Graduate Admission

For a list of graduate degrees, details on the programs, and admissions information, please consult the Graduate Programs website.

The Graduate School is committed to provide a transformative experience for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers at NC State by preparing these talented individuals to become true leaders ready to tackle the major challenges facing our state, nation, and world. NC State is recognized as a national leader in the STEM disciplines, and the University supports advanced study and innovative research in numerous fields, including agriculture, life sciences, design, education, engineering, natural resources, humanities and social sciences, management, textiles, and veterinary medicine, along with many exciting interdisciplinary programs.

NC State currently offers over 160 master’s programs and more than 60 doctoral programs in both traditional and emerging disciplines, including biomedical engineering, biotechnology, genomics, geographical information systems, nanotechnology, and natural resources. The University also offers a broad range of certificate programs that afford graduate students and postdoctoral scholars with opportunities to collect certification for key skills and knowledge. Moreover, several Professional Science Master’s programs are offered that tailor educational outcomes to employer needs.

The Graduate School also proudly offers numerous professional development experiences throughout the year. These opportunities are meant to endow graduate students and postdoctoral scholars with a competitive edge that enhances their ability to land jobs and to experience long-term career success. Graduate School professional development programming incorporates training that pertains to four core competency areas: professional and personal development, leadership and management, academic development, and communication. Signature programs include the Notes From the Field seminar series, the Transition to Industry Immersion Program, the Dissertation and Thesis Institute, the Teaching and Communication Certificate program, the Preparing Future Faculty program, the STEM Faculty Launch program, the Team Case Studies course, and the Job Search Strategies course.

The criteria used for admissions decisions vary according to programs and schools/colleges, reflect an evaluation of the applicant’s potential for graduate work, and consider the ability of a program to accommodate additional students. Commonly, departmental admissions committees consider requests for admission and forward their recommendations to the Graduate School. However, Graduate School regulations govern the criteria for the classification of graduate student status.

Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the priority deadlines OR the Program Deadlines, whichever is earlier.  Please be aware of specific program deadlines, as many are earlier than the Graduate School priority deadlines. All application fees are totally non-refundable.  Note that applications must be submitted to the Graduate School by midnight Eastern Standard Time on the deadline.

The Graduate School
1020 Main Campus Drive, Box 7102
Raleigh, NC 27695

For a list of graduate degrees, details on the programs, and admissions information, please consult the Graduate Programs website.

Application Checklist

Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the priority deadlines OR the Program Deadlines, whichever is earlier. Please be aware that many program deadlines are earlier than the Graduate School priority deadlines.

  • Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended
    • If you are currently enrolled in an institution taking courses, you will need to provide a list of courses in progress
    • All foreign transcripts must be translated to English through a certified Credential Evaluation Service
    • Official transcripts and statements of degree will be required if you are recommended for admission
  • 3 Recommendations from people who know your academic record and potential for graduate study
    • ​All recommendation letters are submitted online through a link that will be sent to each recommender's email once their information is listed on the recommendation list
  • Standardized Test Scores
    • ​Depending on the prospective program's admission requirements, this may include: GRE, GMAT, and/or MAT scores
  • Statement of Purpose & CV/Resume
  • Supplemental Documentation
    • ​Depending on the prospective program's admission requirements, this may include: research papers, additional essay questions, or writing/media samples
  • Application Fee
    • ​Domestic Application: $75.00
    • Graduate Certificate Application: $25.00
    • Payments are made online as the last step of the Admissions application through any major credit card issuer
    • All application fee submissions are totally non-refundable

For a list of graduate degrees, details on the programs, and admissions information, please consult the Graduate Programs website.

Application Checklist

Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the priority deadlines OR the Program Deadlines, whichever is earlier. Please be aware that many program deadlines are earlier than the Graduate School priority deadlines.

  • Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended
    • If you are currently enrolled in an institution taking courses, you will need to provide a list of courses in progress
    • All foreign transcripts must be translated to English through a certified Credential Evaluation Service
    • Official transcripts and statements of degree will be required if you are recommended for admission
  • 3 Recommendations from people who know your academic record and potential for graduate study
    • ​All recommendation letters are submitted online through a link that will be sent to each recommender's email once their information is listed on the recommendation list
  • Standardized Test Scores
    • English Proficiency Scores (IELTS/TOEFL) are mandatory for International Students (please see the Graduate Handbook for more information.)
    • Depending on the prospective program's admission requirements, this may include: GRE, GMAT, and/or MAT scores
  • Statement of Purpose & CV/Resume
  • Supplemental Documentation
    • ​Depending on the prospective program's admission requirements, this may include: research papers, additional essay questions, or writing/media samples
  • Application Fee
    • ​International Application: $85.00
    • Graduate Certificate Application: $25.00
    • Payments are made online as the last step of the Admissions application through any major credit card issuer
    • All application fee submissions are totally non-refundable