News

Aug 10, 2026

From Marine Corps Mechanic to Mechanical Engineer, Dylan Matheny Builds on Experience Through NC State’s Havelock Engineering Program

For Dylan Matheny, engineering did not begin in a classroom. It began in the maintenance shops, inspection areas and testing facilities where he worked on complex aircraft systems as a Marine Corps aircraft engine mechanic. Over time, Matheny found himself drawn less to the task in front of him and more to the larger questions…

Aug 10, 2026

From Music to Mental Health, Matt Cairnes Finds a New Calling Through NC State Online

Matt Cairnes had built a life around music. As a musician from Scotland, he traveled the world, performed with others, wrote songs and built a career rooted in listening, connection and creative expression. Music also brought him to the person who would become his wife. Then, during the COVID pandemic, Cairnes moved from Scotland to…

Jul 30, 2026

Agricultural Science Online Graduate Michelle Case Proves It Is Never Too Late to Pursue a Dream

Michelle Case had a question she could not ignore. After years of working in a public high school agricultural program in New York, supporting students and serving through Future Farmers of America (FFA), she wondered whether she would ever reach her own goal of leading an agricultural classroom. She had already started late by traditional…

Scott Rietvelt and family in front of the Belltower

Jun 1, 2026

From Soldier to Fire Captain to NC State Graduate, Scott Rietvelt Completes a Lifelong Goal

Scott Rietvelt first came to NC State in 2003 as a political science major. A year later, his path changed. In 2004, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a cavalry scout and served on active duty until 2009. When he returned to NC State that fall, he quickly realized he was not yet prepared…

May 19, 2026

Forbes Named NC State among the Best Online Master’s Programs for Military Service Members, Citing the University as the “Best Deal for North Carolina Residents”

NC State has been recognized by Forbes as one of the best online master’s programs for military service members, earning the distinction of “Best Deal for North Carolina Residents.” In its 2026 ranking, Forbes highlighted NC State’s value for in-state students, noting its annual in-state graduate tuition and fees of $12,101. The ranking also cited…

Markus Fornelius following the interview where he became a a full-fledged nuclear engineering officer.

Mar 27, 2026

Markus Fornelius, MEM ‘25, Prepares for His Next Mission

Naval nuclear officer Markus Fornelius completed NC State's online MEM degree in just one year, formalizing his years of fleet leadership and confidently transitioning into the civilian world.

Photo of Hannah Williams, NC State MPRTSM Graduate

Feb 11, 2026

Leading Through Play: How Hannah Williams, MPRTSM ’25, Found Her Path Back to NC State

Hannah Williams, MPRTSM ’25, returned to NC State to grow as a campus recreation leader while balancing full-time work, graduate studies and basketball.

Feb 4, 2026

Building Community Across NC’s Life Sciences Sector

Cristina Maldonado, a Jenkins Online MBA student, co-founded the Operational Excellence Network (OEN) to connect students and professionals across North Carolina’s life sciences industry. The grassroots group supports mentorship, continuous improvement and real-world impact.

College of Education ranked #1 in N.C., #10 for veterans, and #18 in the nation in U.S. News 2026 Best Online in Master's Rankings

Jan 30, 2026

College of Education Ranked #18 in U.S. News’ Best Online Programs Rankings

NC State’s College of Education is ranked #18 in the nation in the 2026U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Education Programs rankings announced Jan. 27, 2026. That is up from two spots over last year and an improvement of 28 spots since 2022.

Jan 30, 2026

Jenkins Online Graduate Business Programs Get High Marks in New U.S. News & World Report Rankings

The Jenkins Online Master’s Programs continue to rank in the top 25 nationwide.