Students
We cultivate outstanding leaders in agriculture and the life sciences. Join us.
We Want You Here
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at NC State is globally recognized for the quality of our teaching. We grow professional leaders and prepare students for graduate research. Whatever career they choose, our students go on to confront grand challenges.
Our doors are open to undergraduates of every background: We understand that hands-on experience — through NC State programs, 4-H, FFA or a farming background — can be a strong indicator of student success. In 2019, we accepted about 50% of applicants. More than 50% of those accepted come from rural or suburban North Carolina counties.
Did you know there’s more than one way to get into CALS? Initiatives like STEAM and ASPIRE, our Community College Partnership Program or NC State’s Agricultural Institute (AGI) offer many potential paths to world-class agriculture and life sciences education.
Programs and Admissions
Start a Career Today
CALS graduates are in high demand: USDA forecasts that demand for agriculture and food industries graduates will outpace supply by 22,500 a year — employers need more agricultural graduates.
95% of CALS students with high-need degrees graduate with jobs that have salaries well above the state’s median income. And you don’t need to have a farm to pursue a career in the field: More than 85% of food and fiber industry jobs are in business management; agricultural education, communication or policy; or related STEM occupations.
Thinking CALS?
Let’s talk. We want to ensure every potential student has the chance to thrive at our college.
- Get in touch. We’ll do everything we can to get you here.
- Arrange a visit. Spend a day at NC State and explore our campus.
- Nominate a student. Tell us about a prospective student interested in CALS.
- Attend a summer program and learn more about our college.