North Carolina A & T State University Logo

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC | Public | University

North Carolina A & T State University has an acceptance rate of 49.9%, annual tuition of $6,813, average net price of $10,846, and a national rank of #503 (Grade B+), with a 57.2% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 12,182 undergraduates, and median earnings of $56,996 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

North Carolina A & T State University is a public university in Greensboro, NC. Students most often pursue Industrial Engineering and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 20:1 student-faculty ratio, and 77.5% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 111.1%, roughly 61.2 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B+
Ranking
#503 of 1,947
How We Rank Schools Lower tuitionSolid ROI potentialPublic school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#503 of 1,947 (Top 25.8%)
Tuition
$6,813
Net Price
$10,846
4-Year Tuition
$27,252
Acceptance Rate
49.9%
Transfer Rate
22.5%
Student Population
12,182
Student-Faculty
20:1
Grad Rate (150% time)
57.2%
Grad Rate (8-year)
56.5%
Retention Rate
77.5%
4-Yr Earnings
$56,996
ROI
111.1%

Who is North Carolina A & T State University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Career maximizers chasing high ROI
Families tracking affordability closely
First-gen or Pell-eligible support

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#503 of 1,947
Top 25.8% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
74.2 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
3.71 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B
#798 of 1,947
Affordability
A-
#190 of 1,947
Support
C+
#1,463 of 1,947
Career Outcomes
B
#1,018 of 1,947

North Carolina A & T State University graduates 57.2% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 56.5% and keeps 77.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A- compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$8,223-$17,311 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Likely
57.2% graduate within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings). The College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 56.5%. 36.3% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
87.0% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $56,996. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use North Carolina A & T State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$81,708
$20,427 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$51,316
$10,846 × 4.7 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.7 years | 4-Year Rate: 36.3% | 6-Year Rate: 57.2% | 8-Year Rate: 56.5%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 36.3% and six-year completion is 57.2%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$20,427
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$10,846
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

Cost of Undergraduate Attendance

Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.

View cost of attendance line items
Costs to Consider Price
Tuition and Fees $6,813
Books and Supplies $1,500
On-Campus Room and Board $8,832
On-Campus Other Expenses $3,600
Total On-Campus Cost $20,427

Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.

Students Receiving Aid

Pell Grant
52.3%
Federal Loan
0.0%

Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.

EDsmart Insight: About 52.3% of North Carolina A & T State University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.

$0 - $30,000
$8,223
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$9,462
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$11,973
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$16,454
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$17,311
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $8,223 to $17,311 depending on family income. Use North Carolina A & T State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$37,004
$30K-$48K families
~$42,579
$48K-$75K families
~$53,878
$75K-$110K families
~$74,043
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $16,454/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $17,311/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
111.1%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $56,996
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $44,440
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.7 years
  • Average Student Debt $27,000
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 27.4%
  • Employment Rate 87.0%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for North Carolina A & T State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.

Graduates earn a median of $56,996 four years after graduation — roughly 6% below the national median.
Payback Period
0.90 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

North Carolina A & T State University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how North Carolina A & T State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes North Carolina A & T State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: North Carolina A & T State University graduates report median earnings of $56,996 four years after graduation, -6% above the national median. The 111.1% ROI indicates solid long-term value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
49.9%
Moderately Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 510-600
  • SAT Math 510-590
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 17-23
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 12,182
  • Full-Time Students 92.8%
  • Part-Time Students 7.1%
  • Retention Rate 77.5%
  • Grad Rate (150% time) 57.2%
  • Grad Rate (8-year) 56.5%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 20:1

How to Get Into North Carolina A & T State University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: North Carolina A & T State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.

2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.

3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 49.9%, North Carolina A & T State University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.

4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.

Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.

EDsmart Insight: North Carolina A & T State University accepts 49.9% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1020 and 1190 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among North Carolina A & T State University undergraduates. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum, Communication and Media Studies, and Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes draw the most students.

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 9.1%
  • Communication and Media Studies 8.4%
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 7.2%
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 5.8%
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.4%
  • Psychology, General 5.0%
See more majors
  • Animal Sciences 4.2%
  • Mechanical Engineering 3.4%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)

  • 1. Industrial Engineering $91,914
  • 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $89,227
  • 3. Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other $88,537
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Mechanical Engineering $87,420
  • 5. Chemical Engineering $87,314
  • 6. Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians $86,427
  • 7. Computer Science $81,421
  • 8. Computer Engineering $80,685
  • 9. Architectural Engineering $76,509
  • 10. Civil Engineering $76,058

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Computer Science (Master's Degree) $85,868
  • 2. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Doctoral Degree) $82,999
  • 3. Industrial Engineering (Master's Degree) $81,491
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree) $73,695
  • 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $62,635
  • 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $57,664
  • 7. Social Work (Master's Degree) $57,093
  • 8. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $54,960
  • 9. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $54,600
  • 10. Student Counseling and Personnel Services (Master's Degree) $52,502

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Industrial Engineering grads earn $91,914—21% more than Civil Engineering ($76,058). Graduate: Computer Science programs lead with $85,868 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for North Carolina A & T State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Bachelor's Degree, 178 graduates)
  • Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 164 graduates)
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 142 graduates)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 113 graduates)
  • Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 98 graduates)

What This School Offers Online, at a Glance

College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.

Online Bachelor's Degrees (48 programs)▼
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Psychology, General
  • Animal Sciences
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Biology, General
  • Social Work
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Marketing
  • Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General
  • Political Science and Government
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Civil Engineering
  • Agriculture, General
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Computer Engineering
  • Sociology
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Biomedical/Medical Engineering
  • Architectural Engineering
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Mathematics
  • History
  • Chemistry
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
  • Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other
  • Music
  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Physics
  • Surveying Engineering
  • Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
  • Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Computer Software and Media Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
Online Master's Degrees (17 programs)▼
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Social Work
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Agriculture, General
  • Biomedical/Medical Engineering
  • Biology, General
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
  • Chemistry
  • English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physics
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online Doctoral Degrees (9 programs)▼
  • Engineering, Other
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Physical Sciences, Other
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Social Work
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (9 programs)▼
  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Social Work
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 12,182
  • Full-Time Students 92.8%
  • Part-Time Students 7.1%
  • Male Students 37.5%
  • Female Students 62.5%
  • Caucasian 2.6%
  • Asian 0.4%
  • Hispanic 4.4%
  • Black 78.4%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 52.3%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects North Carolina A & T State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of North Carolina A & T State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does North Carolina A & T State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
51.0%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
72.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
21.0 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at North Carolina A & T State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: North Carolina A & T State University has a diverse student body, with 2.6% identifying as White. Women make up 62.5% of undergraduates. 52.3% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does North Carolina A & T State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
51.0%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
72.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
21.0 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at North Carolina A & T State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

North Carolina A & T State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #503 nationally with a 111.1% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.

At $10,846 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $56,996 median earnings. The 57.2% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 77.5% retention suggests adequate student support.

University Value: North Carolina A & T State University's Strengths

Ranked #503 with a B+ grade, North Carolina A & T State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.

Primary Strengths: Universitys like North Carolina A & T State University excel at providing affordable education ($10,846 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.

Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.

Honest Assessment: North Carolina A & T State University's 77.5% retention and 57.2% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($56,996 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.

Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, North Carolina A & T State University's 111.1% ROI and $10,846 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.

Key Takeaways

  • 57.2% graduation rate sits 5.3 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 77.5% first-year retention is 0.7 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 111.1% return on investment is 61.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $56,996 run about 6% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $10,846 is roughly $9,233 lower than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 20:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 77.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 87.0% employment rate within three years sits 18.8 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

North Carolina A & T State University is a public university based in Greensboro, NC and earns a B+ overall grade. It holds a #503 national ranking Completion earns B, Support C+, Career Outcomes B, and Affordability A-.

Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.

Student momentum is strong: 77.5% retention, 57.2% graduation within 150% of normal time, and 56.5% earning an award within eight years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 111.1%, offering a quick value checkpoint.

Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $10,846 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $20,427.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $9,581 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $27,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 52.3% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.

Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.

EDsmart Career Snapshot

Graduates report median earnings of about $56,996 four years after graduation. Compared with the national median, that's 6% lower.

Employment outcomes report about 87.0% of alumni working within three years.

EDsmart lists the ROI at 111.1%, offering a quick read on value.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

49.9% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.

The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.

Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the North Carolina A & T State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.

Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.

EDsmart Verdict
3.71 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

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Compare with similar schools
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See ROI for your specific field of study
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Visit North Carolina A & T State University Website →

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Nearby Schools

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Other North Carolina campuses you might consider

Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary
Charlotte, NC
B+ #504 of 1,947
Meredith College
Raleigh, NC
B+ #510 of 1,947
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
B+ #479 of 1,947
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC
B+ #458 of 1,947

Frequently Asked Questions

What is North Carolina A & T State University's acceptance rate?

North Carolina A & T State University's acceptance rate is 49.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does North Carolina A & T State University cost?

At North Carolina A & T State University, listed tuition and fees are $6,813 per year, and the average net price after aid is $10,846. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is North Carolina A & T State University's ranking?

North Carolina A & T State University ranks #503 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is North Carolina A & T State University's graduation rate?

At North Carolina A & T State University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 57.2% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 56.5%, and first-year retention is 77.5%.

What are North Carolina A & T State University's job outcomes?

Graduates of North Carolina A & T State University report median earnings of $56,996 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is North Carolina A & T State University's student population?

North Carolina A & T State University enrolls about 12,182 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
  • Endowment$164.7M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate22.5%

Data Source & Methodology ▼