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Future Students

Welcome future students to the NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering Department. We are a top-15-ranked national program.

Last Updated: 03/11/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

Undergrad Programs

NC State’s Industrial and Systems Engineering undergraduate programs prepare you to solve complex problems in modern organizations. You learn how to improve processes, analyze data and design efficient systems across industries. Through hands-on projects, internships and expert faculty guidance, you gain practical skills that help launch successful careers in engineering, analytics, manufacturing and supply chain.

Graduate Programs

NC State’s Industrial and Systems Engineering graduate programs help you deepen your expertise in analytics, optimization and systems design. You work with leading faculty on real-world challenges while building advanced technical and research skills. As a result, you prepare for leadership roles in industry, consulting, technology and research-driven careers.

About the Department

Welcome to one of the strongest engineering communities you can join. You are now part of a top 15 program in the United States. Moreover, this ranking reflects the strength of our faculty, students and industry partners. As a result, you gain real value when you choose our department.

Industrial and systems engineering continues to gain strong momentum with students. As a result, you join a field that is growing in visibility and impact.

Our department celebrates more than 95 years of excellence. Moreover, U.S. News and World Report ranks our undergrad program #11 nationally and our graduate program #14. Therefore, you become part of a respected and nationally recognized community.

As you move through the program, you prepare for a wide range of careers. That is because we offer diverse research areas, including:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Health Systems
  • Human Factors and Ergonomics
  • Supply Chain and Logistics
  • Systems Analytics and Optimization

Living in Raleigh

Living in Raleigh, NC, consistently ranks as one of the top five places to live and work in the country. Furthermore, the city enjoys moderate weather with an average temperature of 71°F. Additionally, you’re only two hours from the beach and three hours from the mountains. Raleigh welcomes families and individuals, offering a well-educated workforce and a diverse, multicultural environment. As a result, this vibrant city provides a high quality of life and many opportunities for everyone. Consequently, many people find living in Raleigh the ideal way to settle down and thrive.

#6 Best Place to Live in the US (US News & World Report, 2024-2025)
#13 Top 25 America’s Best Cities Best Cities, 2024)
#11 Best Place to Live in the US for Young Professionals (U.S. News, 2023-2024)
Best Cities to Move to After College (USA Today, 2024)

A student living in Raleigh sits on the grass with her dog beside her, enjoying a sunny day outdoors with many other students.

Campus Life

As an industrial engineering student at NC State, you benefit from strong academics and an active campus life. Moreover, you build friendships, join clubs and participate in activities while earning a top quality education.

The Talley Student Union serves as the center of student life. In addition, you can cheer in the stands, compete on the field or enjoy a workout at campus facilities. With hundreds of year round arts programs, you can explore your creativity and connect with a supportive community.

NC State also offers a variety of housing options. For example, you may choose traditional residence halls, themed village communities or on-campus and off-campus apartments for upperclassmen and graduate students.

NC State Dining provides many choices as well. Furthermore, you can select from quick-service eateries, all-you-can-eat dining halls, familiar fast-food chains, specialty cafes, coffee bars and food trucks.

Tour the ISE Department

We believe seeing is believing. Therefore, we invite you to tour the department and explore the many areas within ISE. As you visit, you will see the spaces where students learn, collaborate and create.

During your tour, you can explore:

  • Our world class 3D printing lab
  • The robotics and automation lab
  • The virtual reality cave and biomechanics lab
  • The biomedical 3D printing lab

While you are here, you may also sit in on a simulation modeling or product development class. In addition, you can meet current students and see how they apply what they learn.

To get started, complete the ISE Campus Visitation Form and schedule your visit. By planning ahead, you can experience firsthand what makes our program distinctive.