Winston-Salem State University
The Vibe Check
Winston-Salem State University pulses with a strong sense of community and HBCU pride, creating a close-knit, supportive atmosphere where students are recognized by name. The campus feels both historic and forward-looking, with a blend of disciplined academics and spirited tradition, especially during events like the Christmas Tree Lighting. It's a place where faculty and staff are deeply invested in student success, fostering an environment that feels both nurturing and challenging.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
WSSU is a leader in health sciences, offering top-tier programs in nursing, physical therapy, and healthcare management that are highly respected in the region. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and research, particularly through partnerships with the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and other local institutions. Class sizes are often smaller than at larger universities, allowing for more personalized instruction and direct mentorship from faculty.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem offers a vibrant mix of urban culture and southern charm, with students frequenting the Arts District for galleries, studios, and unique restaurants. The city's growing downtown provides entertainment options like concerts, sporting events, and coffee shops, while the nearby mountains and lakes offer outdoor recreation. On campus, students enjoy a variety of student organizations, Greek life, and spirited athletic events.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($45,344):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own campus police force and well-lit pathways, though standard urban safety precautions are always advised. The surrounding area has seen revitalization, but students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially off-campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, with a low average net price.
- ✓ Strong, well-regarded programs in Health Professions and Nursing with direct career pathways.
- ✓ Close-knit, supportive HBCU community with dedicated faculty and staff.
- ✓ Prime location in a mid-sized city with a growing arts, tech, and healthcare scene.
Cons
- ✗ The 49.1% graduation rate is below the national average, which may indicate systemic challenges.
- ✗ As a public HBCU, it may have fewer resources for research and facilities compared to larger flagship universities.
- ✗ The urban setting may not appeal to students seeking a traditional, isolated college town experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Winston-Salem State University is a historically black university (HBCU) renowned for its exceptional programs in Health Professions, particularly nursing, physical therapy, and respiratory therapy. It is also recognized for its strong emphasis on community engagement, social justice, and preparing students for careers in public service and education.
Winston-Salem State University has an acceptance rate of approximately 68.55%, making it moderately selective. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 946. While the university considers test scores, it uses a holistic review process, so factors like GPA, coursework rigor, essays, and extracurricular involvement are also important in the admissions decision.
Campus life at WSSU is characterized by a strong sense of community and school spirit. Students can participate in over 100 student organizations, including Greek life, honor societies, and special interest groups. The university hosts numerous events throughout the year, and its location in Winston-Salem provides easy access to off-campus entertainment, dining, and cultural activities in a vibrant urban setting.
For in-state students, Winston-Salem State University offers an outstanding value. With a low in-state tuition of $6,735 and an average net price of $13,393, it is one of the most affordable pathways to a four-year degree in North Carolina. The 10-year median earnings of $45,344, combined with strong programs in high-demand fields like healthcare, make it a financially sound investment with a positive return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,944
- In-State Tuition $6,735
- Out-of-State $17,391
- Zip Code 27110
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition under $7,000 and a high Pell Grant recipient rate of 61.5%, WSSU is an exceptionally accessible option for North Carolina residents. The average net price of $13,393 is significantly lower than the national average, and the 10-year median earnings of $45,344 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like healthcare. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is still strong compared to many private institutions, but in-state students receive the most financial benefit.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.