Everything You Need to Know About North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, more widely known as North Carolina A&T State University (or simply NC A&T), is one of the most influential historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States. Established in 1891, this Greensboro-based institution has grown into a dynamic, research-driven university known for its academic excellence, cultural legacy, leadership development, and deep-rooted commitment to innovation and community impact.

Whether you’re a prospective student, parent, alum, or simply curious about this iconic university, this guide explores everything you need to know about NC A&T—from its history and academics to campus life and legacy.

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A Historic Foundation: The Birth of an HBCU Giant

NC A&T was founded on March 9, 1891, as the “Agricultural and Mechanical College for the Colored Race,” under the Second Morrill Act. The university began with a mission to provide African Americans with education in agriculture, mechanical arts, and the sciences. Its initial home was in Raleigh, but the university relocated to Greensboro in 1893, where it flourished.

As part of the land-grant university system, NC A&T was built on the promise of providing practical education to populations historically excluded from higher education. Over the decades, it expanded beyond its agricultural and mechanical roots to include programs in engineering, business, education, liberal arts, and health sciences.

Today, it stands as the largest HBCU in the United States by enrollment and continues to be a pillar of progress, academic rigor, and cultural pride.

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Academic Excellence and Innovation

NC A&T offers more than 160 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across several colleges and schools, including:

• College of Engineering

• College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

• College of Science and Technology

• College of Education

• College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

• College of Business and Economics

• John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences

• Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN)

• The Graduate College

• Honors College

College of Engineering: A National Powerhouse

NC A&T's College of Engineering is widely recognized as one of the top producers of African American engineers in the country. The college offers accredited programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and industrial engineering, among others. Its research initiatives are forward-looking, with an emphasis on automation, robotics, cybersecurity, and sustainable energy.

NC A&T also plays a leading role in national partnerships with NASA, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies, which has helped secure millions in research funding and provide students with real-world experience.

STEM Leadership

In addition to engineering, NC A&T is a STEM powerhouse more broadly. It consistently ranks at the top of the nation for degrees awarded to African American students in science, mathematics, and agricultural fields. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning—through labs, internships, and co-ops—prepares students to be job-ready in a tech-driven world.

Business and Entrepreneurship

The College of Business and Economics holds AACSB accreditation, a mark of excellence held by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide. Students here study finance, marketing, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship. Through the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, NC A&T nurtures young business minds ready to build startups or scale global enterprises.

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Campus Culture: A Family Atmosphere with a Global Outlook

NC A&T’s campus in Greensboro, North Carolina, blends modern facilities with a vibrant cultural heartbeat. The sense of pride and tradition is evident in everything from the university’s majestic marching band (the Blue and Gold Marching Machine) to its homecoming celebration—popularly known as “GHOE” (Greatest Homecoming on Earth).

GHOE: More Than a Homecoming

GHOE is more than just a weekend of football and parties—it’s a massive cultural event that attracts tens of thousands of alumni and visitors from across the globe. With concerts, step shows, parades, and networking events, it showcases Black excellence, creativity, and community at its best.

Student Life and Organizations

NC A&T is home to over 150 student-led organizations, including honor societies, political clubs, faith-based groups, and service organizations. Greek life is a strong presence, with many Divine Nine fraternities and sororities represented on campus.

Students also enjoy an active student government, leadership programs, and frequent cultural and educational events, ranging from African dance showcases to TEDx talks and tech symposiums.

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Research, Grants, and National Partnerships

As a Carnegie-classified “R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity,” NC A&T is a national research institution. The university attracts substantial federal funding for areas including engineering, agriculture, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and public health.

Some of its major centers and labs include:

• Center for Excellence in Cybersecurity Research, Education and Outreach

• Interdisciplinary Waste Management Research Laboratory

• Center for Advanced Materials and Smart Structures

• Center for Energy Research and Technology

With partnerships spanning Fortune 500 companies like IBM, Intel, and General Motors, students often find internship and job placement opportunities through university connections.

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Notable Alumni and Legacy

The Aggie legacy has been shaped by generations of trailblazers in politics, science, business, sports, and entertainment. A few standout alumni include:

• Jesse Jackson – Civil rights activist and two-time presidential candidate.

• Ronald McNair – NASA astronaut and physicist, one of the astronauts on the Space Shuttle Challenger.

• Al Attles – Former NBA player and coach with the Golden State Warriors.

• Taraji P. Henson – While not a graduate, the celebrated actress has frequently collaborated with HBCUs and spoken about the importance of institutions like NC A&T.

This legacy extends beyond individuals. NC A&T was also central to the Civil Rights Movement—four students from A&T were among the “Greensboro Four” who staged the famous 1960 Woolworth’s lunch counter sit-in, sparking a wave of nonviolent protests across the country.

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A&T Athletics: The Aggie Pride Runs Deep

NC A&T’s athletic teams, known as the Aggies, compete in NCAA Division I. The university is a member of the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). Its teams include:

• Football

• Men’s and Women’s Basketball

• Baseball

• Track and Field

• Volleyball

• Softball

• Golf

The football team, in particular, has made headlines in recent years for multiple MEAC championships and Celebration Bowl victories, solidifying its dominance among HBCUs.

NC A&T’s track and field program is also nationally respected. Athletes like Randolph Ross Jr. and Trevor Stewart have represented the university—and the United States—at global competitions, including the Olympics.

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Admissions and Financial Aid

NC A&T prides itself on accessibility and affordability while maintaining high academic standards. Admissions are selective but holistic, considering GPA, test scores (optional as of recent years), extracurriculars, leadership, and community service.

Key Stats:

• Undergraduate Enrollment: ~13,000

• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 57%

• In-State Tuition: Around $6,700/year

• Out-of-State Tuition: Around $20,200/year

The university offers numerous scholarships based on merit, need, and departmental affiliation. Programs like the Cheatham-White Scholarship offer full rides to top students, including tuition, fees, housing, and a stipend for personal and professional development.

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Diversity, Equity, and Global Engagement

Though rooted in its role as an HBCU, NC A&T welcomes students from all backgrounds. Its student body is increasingly diverse, with growing numbers of Latino, Asian, white, and international students. The university’s Office of International Programs fosters global exchange and study abroad, while its diversity initiatives promote inclusive excellence across campus.

The university also hosts numerous cultural centers and events year-round to celebrate its multicultural makeup.

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Community Engagement and Social Impact

NC A&T plays an active role in the Greensboro community and the broader state of North Carolina. Its Cooperative Extension Program, part of its land-grant mission, helps communities with sustainable agriculture, youth development, and environmental stewardship.

The university also supports local entrepreneurship, economic development, and workforce training, ensuring that its impact extends beyond campus boundaries.

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Facilities and Expansion

In recent years, NC A&T has undergone major upgrades and expansion projects, including:

• New Student Center – A sleek, high-tech hub for student life, events, and collaboration.

• STEM Complex – Houses state-of-the-art labs, classrooms, and research centers.

• Residence Halls – Modern housing with amenities and options for freshman and upperclassmen.

• Bluford Library – More than just a repository of books, it’s a tech-integrated learning and research hub.

With the Aggie Vision 2030 strategic plan, the university is planning further growth to support student success, global competitiveness, and research innovation.

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The Aggie Experience: Why NC A&T Stands Out

NC A&T isn’t just a university—it’s a movement. It’s a place where students grow academically, socially, and spiritually. It's where engineers design the future, entrepreneurs launch ideas, scientists solve big problems, and leaders are born.

The combination of tradition, innovation, community, and excellence makes the Aggie experience one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re drawn by the historic legacy, the cutting-edge academics, the cultural energy, or the undeniable Aggie Pride, NC A&T offers a platform to dream big and do even bigger.

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Aggie Pride: It’s a Lifestyle

“Aggie Pride” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a spirit, a bond, a declaration of excellence. It’s in the way alumni support one another, how students push boundaries, and how the community rallies behind its university. From the campus quad to the national stage, NC A&T continues to inspire, uplift, and lead.

So whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or reflecting on your journey as a proud graduate, one thing’s certain:

Once an Aggie, always an Aggie.