North Carolina State University at Raleigh, commonly known as NC State, is a prestigious public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Established in 1887, NC State is recognized for its strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, making it a leading institution for innovation and research. The university is part of the University of North Carolina system and boasts a vibrant campus culture that encourages students to engage in various extracurricular activities. The campus is alive with student organizations, athletic events, and cultural activities, promoting a well-rounded student experience.

One of the standout features of NC State is its commitment to research and applied sciences. With numerous research centers and institutes, the university fosters an environment that not only encourages academic excellence but also focuses on real-world applications. The Wolfpack, NC State’s sports teams, cultivate school spirit and community engagement, providing a thrilling atmosphere for students and alumni alike. Furthermore, the university’s population of over 36,000 students benefits from state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated faculty, including many who have received national recognitions for their contributions to academia and research. The university’s motto, "Think and Do," encapsulates its aim to not only impart knowledge but also encourage students to apply what they learn to address societal challenges. This philosophy is reflected in NC State’s successful graduates who are highly regarded in various industries, contributing significantly to innovation and development across the globe.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, Retention, and Student-Faculty Ratio

North Carolina State University has shown a significant trajectory in tuition fees, graduation rates, student retention, and student-faculty ratios over the years. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $8,206 to $8,895, while out-of-state tuition jumped from $21,661 to $31,767. This increase in costs could pose challenges for many prospective students and may influence their decisions regarding enrollment.

On the graduation front, there is a positive trend observed. The timely graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from approximately 40.8% in 2014 to an impressive 63.9% in 2024. This progressive rise indicates that the university has implemented effective strategies to not only support students in their academic pursuits but also ensure they graduate on time, which is vital for overall student success and future employment opportunities.

Moreover, the retention rate, reflecting the percentage of students who continue their education at the institution from year to year, has remained consistently high, fluctuating between 92.6% in 2014 and 93.7% in 2023. This stability signals strong student satisfaction and institutional support for maintaining student enrollment.

Lastly, the student-faculty ratio has shown some fluctuations, maintaining a ratio around 15-17 students per faculty for the past decade. A lower student-faculty ratio often translates to more personalized attention for students and can enhance their learning experience, further contributing to higher graduation and retention rates.

Overall, while the rising tuition presents a concern, the concomitant improvements in graduation rates, retention, and sustained student-faculty ratios suggest that North Carolina State University is successfully fostering an environment conducive to student success.

Analysis of Degree Graduates at North Carolina State University 2023

In 2023, the graduation data from North Carolina State University reveals significant trends in various disciplines. Notably, the Biological Sciences program produced the highest number of bachelor’s degree graduates, totaling 436, with a small contingent of international students contributing 1.6% to this figure. This trend reflects the growing interest in biological sciences, which remains a critical field for both research and employment opportunities in health and environmental sectors.

On the other hand, the Management Science program shows a robust output at the master’s level, with 337 graduates, including 7.7% international students, indicating its appeal among global learners. The increase in students pursuing advanced management degrees aligns well with current labor market needs for adept leaders skilled in navigating complex business environments, especially in the context of recovering economies post-pandemic.

Interestingly, several programs such as Mathematics Teacher Education and Speech Communication did not yield any graduates at the master’s and doctorate levels this year. This could suggest potential challenges in these fields regarding student enrollment or retention, warranting further investigation into why students might be drawn away from pursuing advanced degrees in these areas.

Additionally, programs within the agricultural domain, such as Crop Production and Animal Husbandry, have a very low representation in terms of bachelor’s graduates, alongside some associate degree output. This low yield could suggest a diminishing interest in these practical fields, which could impact future agricultural sustainability efforts and innovations.

In summary, this year’s graduation statistics reflect broader educational and economic trends, underscoring the importance of aligning academic offerings with both student interest and labor market demands. The data serves as a vital indication for university planners and industry stakeholders to address curriculum and recruitment strategies effectively.

Analysis of North Carolina State University's Admission Trends

North Carolina State University (NCSU) has shown a notable improvement in its ranking over the years, climbing from 88th in 2010 to an impressive 58th in 2025. This upward trajectory reflects the university's efforts to enhance its academic programs and overall student experience, which is becoming increasingly vital in a competitive educational landscape. The growth in enrollments, from approximately 4,800 in 2010 to 5,728 in 2024, indicates that more students are finding NCSU an appealing choice, culminating in a diverse and expansive student body. However, this increased popularity also brings challenges, as shown by the declining admission rates for both male and female applicants. The admission rate for males has fallen from around 56.5% in 2010 to approximately 34.9% in 2024, while the admission rate for females has also decreased significantly. This sharp decline in acceptance rates suggests that the university has become more selective, likely in response to higher application numbers, which soared to nearly 24,091 in 2024. The trend of growing applications combined with decreasing acceptance rates raises questions about the sustainability of this model. While a lower acceptance rate can enhance institutional prestige, it is critical for NCSU to balance selectivity with maintaining an inclusive and diverse student environment. Furthermore, NCSU's ability to accommodate deferred admissions may help manage this balance; nevertheless, the rising number of denied applicants needs addressing to maintain the university’s mission of accessibility. Overall, NCSU stands at an important crossroads where it must navigate the complexities of growth, selectivity, and accessibility as it moves forward.

Trends in Admission Metrics at North Carolina State University

The admission metrics at North Carolina State University over the years reveal several notable trends. One striking aspect is the decrease in the percentage of admitted students submitting standardized test scores. In 2007, 96% of applicants submitted SAT scores, but this number has drastically declined to just 21% in both 2022 and 2024. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies, prioritizing holistic admissions criteria over standardized test performance.

Alongside the decreasing submission rates, we observe a steady increase in score ranges. The 75th percentile SAT reading scores for admitted students have risen consistently from 620 in 2007 to 720 in 2024. Similarly, the SAT math scores have also shown a commendable increase, indicating that the quality of students being admitted has remained high, even as fewer of them submit test scores.

Furthermore, looking at the ACT scores, it appears that this trend of increased requirements is also noticeable. The consideration of these metrics suggests that the university is maintaining rigorous standards in admissions despite a significant drop in the number of test scores submitted.

This reflects not only the university's adaptability in response to changing admissions practices but also its commitment to ensuring that incoming students are academically capable and prepared for the challenges of higher education. As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, North Carolina State University appears well-positioned to prioritize student quality through a diversified admissions approach.

Student Demographics at North Carolina State University (2024)

The student body composition at North Carolina State University in 2024 showcases a diverse and dynamic environment. With a total of 5,728 first-year undergraduate students, the gender representation leans slightly more towards females at 53.1%, compared to 46.9% males. This trend is echoed in the upperclassman population of 19,204 students, where the gender ratio is close to even at 50.7% males and 49.3% females, indicating a balanced environment for both genders.

In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students number 1,457, with a higher male representation at 55.9%, which may suggest differing motivations or demographics among those transferring. The graduate student population is substantial at 10,000, with a near-equal distribution of 51% males and 49% females, reflecting an inclusive atmosphere for graduate education.

Highlighting racial and ethnic diversity, while specific breakdown percentages by race are not fully available for every group, the presence of various ethnicities, including White, Asian, Latinx, African American, and international students, showcases the university’s commitment to diversity. It is crucial for institutions, particularly in today’s socio-political climate, to foster an environment where all students can thrive. The data reflects ongoing efforts to ensure inclusivity and representation.

As universities nationwide continue to navigate challenges related to representation and inclusion, NC State's demographics suggest a positive trend, promoting a campus culture that values diversity and supports the educational journeys of all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at North Carolina State University in 2024

The age distribution of students at North Carolina State University in 2024 presents an interesting overview of the demographics, reflecting a typical student body but with noticeable trends. The largest group is within the 18-19 age range, containing approximately 46% of all students, which indicates that a significant portion of the university population consists of traditional, fresh high school graduates.

As we move to the 20-21 age group, the figures remain substantial, with around 46% of the total male population and 48% of the total female population represented. This reaffirms that many students continue their education immediately after High School. However, it is noteworthy that as age increases, the number of students starts to decline sharply, especially in the 22-24 age range, where enrollment dramatically drops off by about 30%.

For older age brackets, there's a marked pattern of returning adult learners. The group aged 25-29 accounts for approximately 6% of the male students and nearly 10% of the female students, indicating an increasing trend towards higher education among non-traditional students. This trend is mirrored in later age groups, particularly between 30-34 years, where there is a substantial representation of graduate students, making up about 82% of males in that age group.

This data suggests that the university accommodates both traditional and non-traditional students, enhancing its commitment to lifelong learning. Such demographic diversity can enrich the educational environment, providing a variety of perspectives that benefit all students. Moreover, as the landscape of higher education evolves post-pandemic, with more adults pursuing degrees, institutions like NC State will likely continue to adapt to these shifting demographics.

International Student Trends at North Carolina State University

The data from North Carolina State University at Raleigh illustrates notable trends in international student enrollment over the years. From 2005 to 2024, the university has seen fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate international student populations, highlighting changing dynamics in global education.

For undergraduate students, the proportion of international students has generally increased, from 0.95% in 2005 to a peak of 4.66% in 2017, before retreating to 2.58% by 2024. This rise and subsequent decline could reflect shifts in immigration policies and international student recruitment strategies which many U.S. institutions have grappled with in recent years. The increase in 2017 might have resulted from heightened global interest in STEM fields, which NCSU particularly excels in.

Conversely, the graduate student segment has exhibited a relatively stable representation of international students, remaining around 30% throughout much of the reporting period, with a notable peak at 31.20% in 2016. Such a consistent enrollment suggests that NCSU remains a preferred destination for students pursuing advanced degrees, particularly in engineering and sciences.

Overall, the evolving proportions of international students at NCSU underscore the competing factors influencing higher education, including economic conditions, international relations, and institutional initiatives. With ongoing global uncertainties and shifting educational landscapes, monitoring these trends will be crucial for the university’s strategic planning and recruitment efforts to maintain its diverse academic community.

Here are some prominent colleges and universities near North Carolina State University at Raleigh:

1. Duke University - Ranked 6th in the 2025 US News rankings, Duke is known for its outstanding research programs and beautiful campus located in Durham, North Carolina.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This prestigious institution is ranked 27th in the 2025 US News rankings and is celebrated for its excellence in public education and vibrant campus life.

3. Wake Forest University - Ranked 46th, Wake Forest is a private university located in Winston-Salem, known for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to personal student development.

4. Elon University - At rank 121, Elon is recognized for its innovative education methods and strong focus on internships and global engagement.

5. Davidson College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Davidson ranks 14th and is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong sense of community.

6. North Carolina A&T State University - This institution, ranked 231, is one of the largest historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the nation and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational ecosystem in the region, providing diverse options for students.

Analysis of Crime Rates at North Carolina State University

The crime statistics from North Carolina State University demonstrate fluctuating trends over the years, reflecting both increasing and decreasing safety concerns on campus. In 2017, the recorded crime rate per 1,000 students peaked at 12.43, indicating an elevated level of incidents, particularly related to gun arrests and drug violations. This surge may correlate with broader societal issues surrounding gun control and substance abuse that have been prevalent in various states across the U.S.

In contrast, the years following 2017 show a notable decrease in crime rates, particularly in 2021 and 2022 where the rates dropped to 5.37 and 5.40 respectively. This decline may be attributed to enhanced campus safety initiatives and preventive measures, as well as the impact of the ongoing global pandemic, which resulted in reduced campus activities and student interactions.

The presence of domestic violence, assault, and theft incidents in the subdata highlights ongoing challenges that universities face in creating a safe educational environment. Although the statistics reveal some improvements, the fluctuations indicate that safety is a constant concern, requiring ongoing vigilance and engagement from the university community. Thus, these data emphasize the importance of comprehensive safety policies and programs aimed at reducing crime and promoting a sense of security among students.

For those interested in understanding the formulas for calculating crime rates, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.