2+2 / 1+3 Engineering Program
Advantages of the 2+2 / 1+3 Program
The Joint NCSU/UNCA 2+2 / 1+3 Engineering Program offers students a strong start to their engineering education in a small, supportive liberal arts environment with live instruction and close faculty interaction. Students benefit from personalized support services and the ability to stay close to home, particularly for those from Western North Carolina. The program emphasizes strong foundations in math, science, and the humanities, aligning well with the early engineering curriculum. After one or two years, students apply to transfer to NC State’s College of Engineering, where they continue in a specific engineering discipline. (we have all this here in our program too) With a strong track record of student success since 1984, UNC Asheville has been a leading source of well-prepared transfer students to NC State.
Please note that acceptance to NC State depends on academic performance while at UNC Asheville and cannot be guaranteed.
13 Degree Programs
The 2+2/1+3 Engineering Program allows students interested in one of 13 different engineering fields to complete their first one or two years of study at UNC Asheville, and then apply to transfer to NC State to complete their remaining requirements. Students graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from NC State in a specific field of engineering.
Career Paths
Engineering graduates from UNC Asheville go on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including aerospace, environmental, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. With a strong academic foundation and practical experience, they are well-prepared for roles in industries such as manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, and technology.
Ideas in Motion
UNC Asheville engineering students engage in hands-on projects that bring their technical knowledge to life through real-world applications. From designing electromechanical systems to collaborating on large-scale public installations, students apply skills in design, fabrication, and problem-solving to create innovative solutions.
How to Enter the 2+2 / 1+3 Engineering Program at UNC Asheville:
2+2/1+3 Program students begin at UNC Asheville with standardUNC Asheville application. There is no special admission process to the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs at UNC Asheville – simply apply to UNC Asheville. However, it is important that the student state their interest in engineering as early as possible. The ideal place to state this interest is on the UNC Asheville admission application, but the student can indicate the interest after acceptance as well. This will ensure the appropriate assignment of academic advisor and enrollment in the correct engineering classes.
All engineering students take the same classes in the first semester of their first year, regardless of what engineering major they plan to study. As major interests solidify in the second semester, the course of study is tailored to the curriculum of choice
I really enjoyed my experience in the 2+2 (1+3) program. I had the opportunity to thoroughly learn all the engineering fundamentals through a close-knit community at UNCA, which prepared me well for the more complex topics that came at NCSU. I would highly recommend going through the program for a smooth introduction to the engineering student experience."
Ideas in Motion
UNC Asheville engineering students engage in hands-on projects that bring their technical knowledge to life through real-world applications. From designing electromechanical systems to collaborating on large-scale public installations, students apply skills in design, fabrication, and problem-solving to create innovative solutions. Their work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing them to explore the intersection of engineering and creativity. These experiences not only strengthen technical expertise but also prepare students to contribute meaningfully to industry, research, and their communities.
Robots, race cars and rockets
Robert Brenneman, a graduate of UNC Asheville’s joint Mechatronics Engineering program with NC State, exemplifies the power of hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. During his time at UNC Asheville, he led the chassis design for a Formula SAE race car and helped secure a second-place finish in a regional IEEE robotics competition. His education was further enriched through internships at GE Power and Eaton, where he gained valuable industry experience. Now a launchpad engineer at SpaceX, Brenneman works on fluid and mechanical systems for the company’s Starship program, applying the skills he honed through both academic and real-world challenges.
Wake
Unlike other engineering programs, the strong liberal arts and sciences foundation in the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs paves the way for innovation, creation, and impact. These aspects come to life through student work, like the "Wake" project, a collaborative effort between art and engineering students that was installed in New York City’s Times Square.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Student Clubs & Orgs
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the world’s largest technical association, consisting of 39 technical societies involved in publications, conferences, and building technical communities. These groups focus on member outreach both locally and globally and cater to members’ specialized interests.
In the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs, students can join the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) collegiate chapter. SAE is dedicated to advancing mobility engineering, giving students hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing vehicles while developing teamwork, project management, and real-world problem-solving skills in the field of automotive and aerospace engineering.
Learn About The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Mechatronics Engineering Ambassador Program
The Mechatronics Ambassadors Program (MAP) is another way students can be involved beyond the classroom. MAP organizes skill-sharing sessions, community service events, brings in local industry partners to meet with students for informational sessions and interviews, and assists the Joint Engineering Programs with recruitment. MAP is a group of outstanding students in a position held with high honor at the University. Those chosen for the program have the opportunity to develop leadership and communication skills through outreach programs to Advisory Board members, prospective students, community members, and guests at UNC Asheville.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Industrial Advisory Board
The Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) for the Joint BS in Engineering – Mechatronics Concentration (JEM) is a group of industry leaders who collaborate with the program to bridge the gap between academia and the engineering profession. Serving as the program’s primary source of external guidance, the IAB advises on curriculum development, supports accreditation efforts, and helps align educational goals with industry needs. Members also mentor students, assist with internships, and promote the program publicly. Additionally, the IAB contributes to fundraising efforts, providing resources for scholarships, lab equipment, and program enhancements.
Meet the Faculty and Staff
Meet the Faculty and Staff
Expert faculty from NC State and UNC Asheville nurture engineering students through their education at every step. Faculty and staff bring a range of background knowledge from experience in engineering firms, product development, NASA, Bell Labs, and more.
Related Programs
Start Your Journey Toward a Career in Engineering
The Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs offer an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in an engineering discipline while experiencing a liberal arts education. Learn from faculty experts at NC State and UNC Asheville as you prepare for a future in the field.
Have questions about the program or don’t know which path is right for you? Request information or contact the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs for assistance.