High School Students

What Courses Should I Take in High School?

To build a strong foundation for Chemical Engineering, we recommend:

• Math: Algebra I & II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB or BC (if available)

• Science: Chemistry (AP or Honors preferred), Physics (Honors or AP Physics 1 or C Mechanics preferred), Biology

• Additional Coursework: Engineering, Computer Science, or Technical Writing (optional but helpful)

What Skills Should I Develop?

Chemical Engineering isn't just about mastering formulas - it's about solving real-world problems with creativity, teamwork, and perseverance. Here are some key skills you can start building right now:

• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking

  • Participate in STEM competitions: Science Olympiad, math competitions, robotics challenges

  • Take on research or science fair projects that require experimentation and analysis

• Teamwork & Collaboration

  • Join clubs like Robotics, Science Club, Engineering Club, or Coding Club

  • Volunteer or lead team-based projects

  • Practice leadership in group settings - project management is a big part of engineering!

• Hands-On Experience

  • Build something! Participate in Maker Faires, 3D printing projects, coding hackathons, DIY building

  • Tinker with open-ended projects - even designing small experiments or building basic models

• Leadership & Initiative

  • Serve in Student Government, club leadership, mentorship programs, or peer tutoring

  • Organize STEM outreach events or lead younger students in science activities

  • Advocate for new STEM opportunities at your school if they don't already exist

Why wait until college? Start exploring what it's like to be part of the Wolfpack - and the CBE community - right now!

• Visit NC State & Explore Chemical Engineering

  • Attend Open House (October & April) - Tour our facilities, meet professors, and chat with students

  • Schedule a Tour - Visit Centennial Campus, home of the College of Engineering

  • Shadow a Class - Sit in on a real CBE lecture!

• Virtual Webinars & Q&A Events

  • Join exclusive virtual events to learn about student life, internships, and research opportunities

  • Get your questions answered by current CBE students and faculty

• Engineering Summer Programs

  • Engineering Summer Camps - Get hands-on experience before college

  • Pre-College STEM Programs - Explore engineering at NC State

• Student Ambassador Mentorship

  • Connect with current Chemical Engineering students to learn about coursework, co-ops, research, and campus life!

Applying to NC State Engineering

NC State's College of Engineering is one of the top-ranked public engineering programs in the country. Our Chemical Engineering (ChemE) program blends cutting-edge research, hands-on learning, and a close-knit community ready to tackle global challenges.

Start by exploring:

• NC State Undergraduate Admissions

• NC State Engineering First Year (EFY) Program Info

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

• GPA and Coursework:

  • A strong GPA with a focus on rigorous coursework is key. Aim for advanced math (Pre-Calculus, Calculus if possible), AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and any available engineering or technology electives.

• Deadlines:

  • Early Action Deadline: November 1 (Recommended for engineering applicants)

  • Regular Decision Deadline: January 15

Tip: Applying Early Action gives you the best chance for competitive scholarships too!

View Application Deadlines and Requirements

What We Look For

NC State Engineering values students who are:

• Academically Prepared: Strong STEM foundation in high school (math, chemistry, physics especially)

• Curious and Passionate About Engineering: Show a genuine interest - whether it's through projects, clubs, competitions, or internships

• Leaders in Their Communities: Leadership roles in school, clubs, sports, service, or work all count. It doesn't have to be a STEM club - leadership is leadership

• Resilient and Growth-Oriented: Engineering is challenging - we look for students who demonstrate persistence, adaptability, and excitement to solve problems

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Investing in your future matters - and NC State offers a variety of ways to make an engineering degree more affordable. 

• Merit-Based Aid

• Need-Based Aid

Learn more about Financial Aid and Scholarships

Building a Competitive Application

Ready to shine? Here's how:

• Personal Essay Tips

  • Tell your story authentically - what sparked your interest in engineering?

  • Reflect on experiences that show curiosity, problem solving, leadership, or resilience

  • Show who you are beyond just grades and test scores

• Showcasing YOU

  • Include STEM-related activities, but don't hide your other passions!

  • Highlight leadership, innovation, creativity, perseverance

  • Explain why engineering - and why NC State if you can weave it in!

Tips for writing your best college essay

Becoming a Chemical Engineer is about curiosity, resilience, and heart. It's about learning how to think, solve, design, and lead.

If you're excited to take on new challenges and build the future, ChemE at NC State could be your perfect next step - and we can't wait to meet you.