Worcester State University
The Vibe Check
Worcester State University feels like a tight-knit, supportive community where students are genuinely seen and encouraged. The campus has a practical, down-to-earth energy, blending historic brick buildings with a focus on real-world preparation. It's a place where you can balance serious study with easy access to the city's amenities.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 24
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Worcester State's academic strengths are centered on high-demand fields like Health Professions, Business, and Criminal Justice, offering strong, career-focused programs. Students benefit from accessible, engaged faculty who prioritize teaching and mentorship over large lecture halls. Research opportunities are available, particularly through partnerships with local healthcare and business organizations in the Worcester area.
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 Worcester
Worcester offers a vibrant, accessible city life just a short walk or bus ride from campus. Students enjoy exploring the diverse food scene on Shrewsbury Street, catching a show at the DCU Center, or hiking at nearby Green Hill Park. The city's colleges create a youthful energy with plenty of coffee shops, bookstores, and local events to explore.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($60,624):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own campus police force and well-lit pathways. Worcester is a typical mid-sized city, so students should practice urban awareness, especially at night, but the campus itself is a secure environment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to lower debt.
- ✓ Strong, practical programs in high-growth fields like Health Professions and Business.
- ✓ A supportive, accessible campus environment with a focus on undergraduate teaching.
Cons
- ✗ The 57.1% graduation rate is below the national average, which may be a concern.
- ✗ The retention rate of 76.5% suggests some students transfer after their first year.
- ✗ Campus life may feel quieter compared to larger, more residential universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Worcester State University is primarily known for its strong, career-oriented programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Psychology, and Criminal Justice. It is recognized as a public university that provides accessible, practical education with a focus on serving the needs of Massachusetts and the New England region.
No, Worcester State University is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 89.86%, it is an accessible option for a wide range of applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1145, and the admissions process is holistic, giving weight to your overall application.
Campus life at Worcester State is a mix of commuter and residential experiences, fostering a close-knit community feel. Students can get involved in various clubs and organizations, and the urban setting provides easy access to city life in Worcester. The environment is supportive and focused on academic success, with a more relaxed social scene than large party schools.
For in-state students, Worcester State offers an excellent return on investment. The low average net price of $14,738 and a 10-year median earnings of $60,624 make it a financially sound choice. The value is particularly high for its top programs in healthcare and business, which lead to stable, well-paying careers.
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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 5,475
- In-State Tuition $11,286
- Out-of-State $17,366
- Zip Code 01602
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,738 and in-state tuition under $12,000, Worcester State offers exceptional value for a degree. The 10-year median earnings of $60,624 indicate a strong return on investment, especially for a public university. For out-of-state students, the value is still solid but requires careful comparison with public options in your home state.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.