Transfer to the College of Natural Resources at NC State
We have provided the answers to some of the most common questions we receive about transferring to the College of Natural Resources at NC State University.
Your Future in Natural Resources Starts Here
Hands-on learning. Big opportunities. A community that cares.
Why Transfer to the College of Natural Resources?
At the College of Natural Resources at NC State, transfer students are a vital part of our community. About 20-25% of our students come from other institutions, and we understand that the journey to NC State isn’t always direct. Whether you’re transferring from a community college, another four-year institution, or returning to school after time away, we provide the resources and support to help you succeed.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Top 10% Ranking: Our programs in natural resources and conservation are consistently ranked among the best in the nation.
- Small College Feel, Big University Resources: With just under 1,600 undergraduates, you get the close-knit community experience while benefiting from the resources of a large research university.
- Hands-On Learning: Our motto, The Planet is Our Classroom, reflects our commitment to real-world learning. Students engage in field-based experiences, working in forests, wetlands, and urban ecosystems rather than being confined to a classroom.
- High-Demand Career Paths: Many of our majors, such as Paper Science & Engineering, Environmental Sciences, and Forest Management, have strong job placement rates with competitive salaries.
Transfer Student Support
We offer personalized advising to help you transition smoothly. Our dedicated academic advisors provide:
- Course recommendations to maximize transfer credits.
- Degree planning for efficient graduation pathways.
- One-on-one career coaching and professional development workshops.
Additionally, our Natural Resources Library is a dedicated hub for students to collaborate, study, and access specialized resources related to our fields of study.
Career and Internship Opportunities
Every CNR student is required to complete a professional experience before graduation. This could be:
- Internships with leading organizations like the U.S. Forest Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, International Paper, or the Carolina Panthers.
- Research projects, such as working in our Christmas Tree Research Lab to improve sustainable tree farming in North Carolina.
- Co-op Programs (primarily for Paper Science & Engineering students) with major industry partners.
We also host career fairs each fall, bringing employers directly to campus to recruit CNR students.
Scholarships for Transfer Students
NC State awards over $900,000 annually in CNR scholarships. Transfer students are eligible to apply for dedicated funding, including a $20,000 scholarship exclusively for new transfers.
When Can You Apply for Scholarships?
- Once admitted, transfer students gain access to Pack Assist, NC State’s scholarship portal.
- Applications open immediately upon admission, so early applicants have the best chances of securing aid.
Transfer FAQ
How do I know if my credits will transfer?
Use the NC State Transfer Course Equivalency Tool to check how your courses will count toward your CNR degree.
Can I complete my degree on time as a transfer student?
Yes! Many of our growth majors—such as Environmental Technology & Management and Paper Science & Engineering—have structured transfer pathways to ensure efficient graduation timelines.
What kind of career support does CNR offer?
CNR has a dedicated career services director, Deanna Knighton, who helps students with:
- Resume & cover letter writing
- Internship & job search assistance
- Networking opportunities with employers
- Career fairs and industry events
Are study abroad opportunities available for transfer students?
Absolutely! Short-term and semester-long programs include:
- Galápagos Islands: Ecology and wildlife conservation course.
- United Kingdom: Sport management students visit English Premier League stadiums to study sustainability in sports.
Explore Our Programs
CNR offers a wide range of majors and minors categorized into four key themes:
Engineering and Innovation
- Paper Science & Engineering: 100% job placement, high salaries, and an optional double major in Chemical Engineering.
- Sustainable Materials & Technology: Focus on designing eco-friendly materials beyond just wood, including metals, minerals, and even coffee bean composites.
- Environmental Technology & Management: Apply engineering principles to monitor and improve air, water, and soil quality.
The Field and Outdoors
- Fisheries, Wildlife & Conservation Biology: Hands-on training in wildlife and freshwater fisheries management.
- Forest Management: Focus on sustainable forestry, with concentrations in Ecology or Production.
- Environmental Sciences: One of our most STEM-intensive programs, designed for students interested in tackling global environmental issues.
- Natural Resources: Offers tracks in Ecosystem Assessment or Policy & Administration.
- Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management: Prepares students for leadership roles in recreation, tourism, and conservation education.
People and Policy
- Environmental Policy & Administration: For students interested in advocating for environmental change.
- Tourism & Event Management: Focuses on creating sustainable and accessible tourism experiences.
Recreation and Sport
Sport Management: For students interested in the business of sports, including marketing, event management, and operations.
Congratulations to our own Dr. Jason Bocarro, who was recently inducted into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration! 👏
Bocarro joined the #NCStateCNR faculty in January 2006. He is the Owens-Shelton Distinguished Professor of Leadership with a Global Perspective and program director of the James Buzzard Leadership Development Program. He was also recently selected as a 2026-27 Office for Faculty Excellence Faculty Fellow.
His research focuses on how sports, nature and green spaces, recreation, and public spaces can help people live healthier and more connected lives. Much of his work explores how communities can design environments and programs that encourage physical activity, especially for children and families who may face barriers to participating in sport and recreation.
“Being inducted into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration is really meaningful because having worked in the field in three countries (Canada, England and the U.S.), I have seen firsthand the profound impact the profession can have on people, communities, and quality of life across different cultures,” Bocarro said.
“I am deeply honored that my work has been recognized by respected colleagues within the profession and privileged to join an Academy filled with exceptional leaders from across the country. I`m excited to get to know some of these leaders better and hope that will benefit our department and students at NC State.”
What a great two weeks we had welcoming all our new and returning members of the Pack back to campus! ❤️🐺 Take a look back at some of the highlights of #NCStateWWW, from move-in to Packapalooza.
Video Description: Video clips featuring students moving into campus, the college band playing at Wolf Plaza and during New Student Convocation, scenes from the first day of classes and scenes of students at the College of Natural Resources table and the crowd at Packapalooza.
This summer, Hannah Andrews `27 put her paper science and engineering experience into action during an internship with Solenis in Augusta, Georgia. 🔬🌲
From laboratory testing and analyzing samples to learning the ins and outs of the specialty chemicals side of the paper industry, Hannah gained hands-on experience, built new skills and discovered even more possibilities for her future career.
"From day one, my team wrapped me in support, taking time out of their busy schedules to break down complex ideas and guide me through the nuances of the industry. They didn’t just teach me; they invested in me.
I’m walking away with much more than just industry knowledge, I’m leaving with genuine relationships and mentors who truly believed in my potential, which has honestly made me more excited than ever to pursue a career in this industry."
🔗 Read the full story in the link in our bio.
