When it comes to choosing the right college, various factors come into play. In this comparison, we will be looking at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech University, examining the costs, admissions, academics, diversity, and other aspects that can affect your decision-making process.
North Carolina State University (NC State) Overview
North Carolina State University, commonly known as NC State, is a public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Established in 1887, it is the largest university in the Carolinas. NC State is well-known for its engineering, agriculture, life sciences, textiles, and design programs. It offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
NC State Costs & Tuition
Tuition and fees for in-state undergraduate students at NC State amount to approximately $9,101 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $29,220 annually. Room and board costs for on-campus living are estimated at $11,673 per year.
NC State Admissions
Admission to NC State is considered moderately difficult, with an acceptance rate of approximately 45%. The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1250 and 1390, while the average ACT score ranges from 27 to 32.
NC State Degrees Offered
NC State offers a wide range of degree programs through its 12 colleges, including the College of Engineering, the College of Design, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the College of Natural Resources. Students can choose from over 100 undergraduate majors and 200 graduate programs.
NC State Academics
NC State is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university is ranked among the top public institutions in the nation for research funding. Faculty members are renowned for their expertise in various fields, and students have access to cutting-edge research facilities.
NC State Diversity
The university is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. Around 71% of the student population is White, 11% is African American, 6% is Hispanic, and 6% is Asian. NC State has numerous programs and initiatives in place to support diversity and inclusion efforts.
NC State Students
With a total enrollment of over 36,000 students, NC State offers a vibrant campus life that includes numerous clubs and organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. The university boasts a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with many initiatives aimed at promoting green practices on campus.
NC State Campus
NC State’s main campus covers 2,110 acres and includes state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Hunt Library, the James B. Hunt Jr. Library, and the Talley Student Union. The university also has a Centennial Campus, which houses research centers, corporate offices, and the College of Engineering.
NC State Alumni
Notable alumni from NC State include John Edwards, former U.S. Senator and Vice Presidential candidate; Bill Cowher, former NFL coach; and Zach Galifianakis, comedian and actor.
NC State Rankings
NC State is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked NC State as the 80th best national university and the 32nd best public university.
NC State Outcomes
The four-year graduation rate at NC State is 49%, while the six-year graduation rate is 81%. The average starting salary for graduates is around $55,000 per year.
Virginia Tech University (VT) Overview
Virginia Tech, formally known as Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, is a public research university located in Blacksburg, Virginia. Established in 1872, it is the state’s third-largest university. VT is renowned for its engineering, architecture, and agriculture programs. It offers over 110 undergraduate majors and 170 graduate degree programs.
VT Costs & Tuition
Tuition and fees for in-state undergraduate students at VT amount to approximately $13,691 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $32,835 annually. Room and board costs for on-campus living are estimated at $9,567 per year.
VT Admissions
Admission to VT is considered moderately difficult, with an acceptance rate of approximately 65%. The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1190 and 1390, while the average ACT score ranges from 25 to 31.
VT Degrees Offered
VT offers a wide range of degree programs through its eight colleges, including the College of Engineering, the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Students can choose from numerous undergraduate majors and graduate programs.
VT Academics
Virginia Tech is known for its strong emphasis on research, with a focus on areas such as cybersecurity, energy, and life sciences. The university is ranked among the top research institutions in the nation, and students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
VT Diversity
VT is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion on its campus. Approximately 67% of the student population is White, 12% is Asian, 8% is African American, and 8% is Hispanic. The university offers various programs and initiatives to support diversity and inclusivity efforts.
VT Students
With a total enrollment of over 34,000 students, VT offers a vibrant campus life that includes over 900 clubs and organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
VT Campus
VT’s main campus covers 2,600 acres and features state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Moss Arts Center, the LumenHAUS, and the University Gateway Center. It also has a Corporate Research Center that houses research centers, corporate offices, and the College of Engineering.
VT Alumni
Notable alumni from VT include Michael Vick, former NFL quarterback; Hoda Kotb, television journalist; and Robert Ballard, oceanographer and discoverer of the Titanic wreckage.
VT Rankings
Virginia Tech is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked VT as the 74th best national university and the 29th best public university.
VT Outcomes
The four-year graduation rate at VT is 60%, while the six-year graduation rate is 84%. The average starting salary for graduates is around $58,000 per year.
NC State vs VT Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending NC State and VT, it is important to consider tuition and fees, as well as room and board expenses. For in-state students, NC State is the more affordable option, with an approximate annual cost of $9,101 for tuition and fees, compared to VT’s $13,691. For out-of-state students, NC State’s annual tuition and fees amount to around $29,220, while VT’s cost is approximately $32,835. However, VT’s room and board expenses are slightly lower, estimated at $9,567 per year, compared to NC State’s $11,673.
NC State vs VT Admissions Difficulty
Admission to both NC State and VT is considered moderately difficult. NC State has a slightly lower acceptance rate of 45%, compared to VT’s 65%. The average SAT and ACT scores for admitted students are quite similar between the two universities, with NC State’s average SAT scores ranging from 1250 to 1390, and VT’s from 1190 to 1390. The average ACT score for admitted students at NC State is between 27 and 32, while at VT, it ranges from 25 to 31.
NC State vs VT Academic Difficulty
Both NC State and VT are renowned for their strong emphasis on research and innovation, with top-ranked programs in engineering, agriculture, and other fields. While the academic difficulty may vary depending on the specific program and major, both universities are known for their rigorous coursework and high academic standards.
NC State vs VT Outcome Comparison
When comparing the outcomes of NC State and VT graduates, it is important to consider graduation rates and starting salaries. Both universities have similar six-year graduation rates – 81% at NC State and 84% at VT. VT has a slightly higher four-year graduation rate at 60%, compared to NC State’s 49%. In terms of starting salaries, VT graduates have a slightly higher average starting salary of around $58,000 per year, compared to NC State’s $55,000.
