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CHAPEL HILL — The UNC Board of Governors on Friday gave final approval for a master's degree in nanoengineering at N.C. A&T, paving the way for the program to start in the fall.

The program will be offered through the N.C. A&T and UNCG Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering. UNCG is offering graduate programs in nanoscience, while N.C. A&T will offer graduate programs in nanoengineering.

A&T Chancellor Harold Martin said Thursday the master's program in nanoengineering will start in the fall. The university expects to enroll 15 students in the first  year.

Nanoscience is the study of atoms and molecules smaller than 100 nanometers. The science is used to develop new capabilities in various industries. 

The first crop of graduate students in nanoscience began their studies in August.

A&T has also submitted a request for a doctoral program in nanoengineering. Franklin McCain, a member of the board of governors, asked on Thursday about the status of that proposal during a meeting of the board's educational planning committee.

Alan Mabe, senior vice president for academic affairs, and committee chairman James Deal Jr. said the system is operating with a smaller staff as it works through the process of considering new programs.

But UNC President Tom Ross said he's asking his staff to give priority to the proposal for a doctoral program in nanoengineering, given that the state has made significant investments in the program with the understanding that both universities would offer doctoral programs.

Students are studying in a space on the Gateway University Research Park's south campus while the joint school is under construction on East Lee Street.