Salem State University Overview

Salem State University is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Salem, MA. It has an enrollment of 5,046 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 90.01%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,497. Tuition is $11,675.00 without financial aid.

Salem State University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Salem State University, 75.44% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Salem State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1.

Salem State University Website

Salem State University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 90.01%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

Salem State University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,497. The in-state tuition is $11,675.00. Out-of-state tuition is $18,480.00

The average tuition is:

• $12,399, when family income is less than $30,000

• $14,664, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,082, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $19,763, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $23,064, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 58.47% of students received a federal student loan and 40.82% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $18,480.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Salem State University Net Price Calculator

Salem State University Majors/Salaries

Salem State University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Salem State University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,653
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $67,660
• Education, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,712
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $48,041
• Special Education and Teaching. (Master’s Degree) – $54,855
• Student Counseling and Personnel Services. (Master’s Degree) – $47,260
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $47,729
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Master’s Degree) – $59,124
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,350
• English Language and Literature, General. (Master’s Degree) – $44,356
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,308
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,265
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,696
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,505
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Master’s Degree) – $48,302
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,282
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,110
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $50,606
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,547
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,149
• Visual and Performing Arts, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,856
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,520
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $63,005
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,261
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $71,854
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,328
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $78,971
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,925
• History. (Master’s Degree) – $42,682

Salem State University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Salem State University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.06%
• Asian: 3.53%
• Black: 9.31%
• Hispanic: 20.31%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.08%
• Non-resident alien: 2.46%
• Two or more races: 3.51%
• Unknown: 2.20%
• White: 58.54%

At Salem State University, 17.21% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Salem State University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Salem State University?

Salem State University has a strong school spirit, and students at the university take pride in being part of the community. The university has various student-led organizations and clubs that provide opportunities to express their school spirit. Additionally, there is an annual homecoming event and many exciting sporting events that students attend to show their support for their favorite Salem State sports teams. Overall, school spirit is an essential aspect of the university’s culture, and there are ample opportunities for students to get involved and show their support for the university.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Salem State University?

Salem State University offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. Some popular extracurriculars include: 1. Student Government Association 2. Club Sports, including soccer and ultimate frisbee 3. Greek Life 4. Community Service and Volunteerism, such as volunteering at local non-profits 5. Performing Arts, including theater and music ensembles 6. Academic Clubs and Honor Societies, such as the Honors Program and the Business Club. There are many other clubs and organizations to choose from, and students are also welcome to start their own clubs based on their interests.

How are the food choices at Salem State University?

Salem State University offers a variety of food choices on campus. There are several dining options available including a dining hall, food courts, cafes, and a convenience store. The dining hall offers many different options including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. They also have themed nights such as Taco Tuesday, International Night, and BBQ Night. The food courts offer options like Subway, Panda Express, and Dunkin’ Donuts. Additionally, the cafes on campus offer grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Overall, there are many food options available at Salem State University.

Is there Greek life at Salem State University?

Yes, Salem State University has Greek life on campus. The university currently has nine recognized fraternities and sororities, including six national organizations and three local organizations. The Greek organizations on campus are part of the Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and Panhellenic Council. Membership in these organizations provides opportunities for leadership development, community service, and social networking.

What is Salem State University known for?

Salem State University is known for its excellent academic programs and beautiful campus located in Salem, Massachusetts. It is known for its strong roots in teacher education, nursing, and business programs. Additionally, the university is known for its commitment to community engagement and sustainability initiatives. The university also has a diverse student body consisting of both undergraduate and graduate students.

What are the most popular school clubs at Salem State University?

Salem State University offers a varied range of school clubs and organizations to its students. Some of the popular clubs at Salem State University are: 1. Student Government Association 2. Campus Activities Board 3. Radio Station 4. Dance Team 5. Ultimate Frisbee Club 6. Gaming Club 7. Volunteer Club 8. International Student Association Apart from these, there are many other clubs and organizations available at Salem State University catering to diverse interests such as academic clubs, art and music clubs, cultural and diversity clubs, and sports clubs, among others.

Is the campus at Salem State University safe?

Yes, the campus at Salem State University is generally considered to be safe. The university works closely with the Salem Police Department to ensure the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff. There are campus police officers on duty 24/7, and the university has implemented various safety measures such as security cameras, emergency phones, and a campus-wide alert system. However, as with any campus or city, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.