Unique in the UNC System, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics is a world-class public high school with statewide reach, empowering students with the skills and knowledge to design their own future. Specializing in science, technology, engineering, and math — and with a robust humanities and arts program — NCSSM challenges talented high school juniors and seniors from across NC through a residential program on its historic campus in Durham and, soon, on a second campus being built in Morganton. The extensive online program and summer offerings extend the school’s impact to every corner of North Carolina. Founded in 1980 as the first of its kind, NCSSM has become the model for 18 such specialized schools around the globe.

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11K+

alumni, most living and working in North Carolina

94

of NC’s 100 counties had a student enrolled in a program (2019)

1 each

of NASA astronauts and MacArthur “genius” fellows among alumni

NCSSM models how physical and virtual spaces and a statewide approach to collaboration can innovate educational spaces, an educational model copied by schools around the globe.

Highlights

One school, many options

In addition to its two-year residential program for high school juniors and seniors, NCSSM offers a dual-enrollment online program for students seeking high-level instruction to supplement what’s offered at their home high school, and open-enrollment courses taught via interactive videoconference -- all offered without tuition charges to NC residents; and many summer programs. These diverse offerings ensure that North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics creates opportunities to fit the needs of promising young North Carolinians.
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NCSSM Morganton

In June 2019, NCSSM broke ground on a second residential campus in Morganton, funded by $58 million approved by voters in the Connect NC bond package, $15 million appropriated by the NC General Assembly, and at least $10 million being raised privately. A no-longer-used portion of the NC School for the Deaf campus was selected as the site. This site features two existing historic buildings, which will be renovated, and ample space to construct a new academic commons building, a dormitory, and a student wellness and activity center.
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Stories of transformative impact

The NCSSM experience can have a powerful transformative impact on students’ lives, and, in turn, the school’s alumni have a transformative effect on their communities, our state, and the world. A rural, online student is accepted to five Ivy League universities. A girl from Jacksonville, NC, graduates from the residential program to become an engineer at NC State and, eventually, a record-breaking NASA astronaut aboard the International Space Station. These dramatic examples illustrate the possibilities that await at NCSSM. Read more stories about the positive effects of the NCSSM experience.
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