On-Campus Transfer Admissions
Application process and information for current NC State students
Important Dates
- Mid-September: Application opens for on-campus (CODA) applicants looking to apply for Studio-Based Majors.
- *November 1*: Students need to submit their CODA application, link for their 10-piece Portfolio, and Design Essay due for Studio-Based Majors.
- College of Design will also be reviewing cumulative GPA and transfer hours.
- Late December: Admissions Update – College of Design provides one of the following update decisions to the Office of Registration and Records (Accept with no additional review from design needed; Invitation to Interview* with the faculty in the department; Declined for studio-based major).
- Not all departments conduct interviews, you will be notified if your participation is required.
- Mid-January: Departmental interviews by invitation only.
- Mid-February: Final Decisions will be released via your CODA applicaion.
On-Campus Transfer
Studio Based Majors
Architecture (BEDA), Art + Design, Graphic & Experience Design, Industrial Design
Admission in Fall semester ONLY
10 piece portfolio and design essay required.
Steps to Complete Application:
- Complete essay (on CODA Application).
- Create a 10-piece portfolio website and put URL into the CODA Application. Check guidelines below for more information.
- Submit your CODA Application | Deadline November 1.
Design Essay Prompt – Fall 2025 Admissions
Architecture Prompt
Discuss one project in your portfolio that best reflects your current understanding of design. Consider how the materials and/or media contribute to the meaning and function of the piece. 250 – 300 word count.
Art + Design Prompt
Reflect on your interest in Media Arts, Design and Technology. Select one project in your portfolio that best demonstrates your understanding of Animation, Gaming & Interaction Design, or Fibers & Soft Construction. Discuss how this project demonstrates your understanding of the design process, and how it’s connected to your potential career in design. 250 – 300 word count.
Graphic & Experience Design Prompt
Discuss one project in your portfolio and describe your process in creating it, explaining your decision-making and any inspiration you drew from it. 250-300 word count.
Industrial Design Prompt
Discuss one project in your portfolio that best reflects your current understanding of design. Consider how it might be received or used by somebody other than yourself. 250-300 word count. 250-300 word count.
Portfolio Guidelines
A portfolio is a collection of your strongest work. This is a showcase of who you are as a maker and creator. Submissions do not need to be major-specific. Any medium is accepted. You must submit 10 images. Guidelines can be found here: Admissions Booklet for On-Campus Transfer Students (Download a PDF).
Non-Studio Based Major
Design Studies
Admission in fall, spring, and summer semesters
No portfolio is required for Design Studies applicants.
Check the CODA website for more information on deadlines and requirements.
Steps to Complete Application:
- Review the requirements for Design Studies
- Complete the CODA Application
Tours and Virtual Info Sessions
Internal Transfer
Internal transfers should follow the same steps as the On-Campus transfer students listed above.
Bachelor of Architecture (5th Year)
Deadline: January 31
This is a one-year professional degree program and not available for recent high school graduates nor for college transfers (please see the BEDA program requirements if you are applying from high school or transferring into architecture).
Applications to this program from graduates of other comparable four-year pre-professional programs in architecture are welcome. Admission requirements include prerequisite courses which must be included in the applicant’s undergraduate program. A transcript review will identify any prerequisite deficiencies. If accepted to the program, the applicant will be advised regarding how to comply with the prerequisite requirements.
