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Colleges / VA / Norfolk
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Norfolk State University

Public Norfolk, VA · Urban · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
36%
Graduation Rate
$44,666
Earnings (10yr)
$15,282
Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Norfolk State University is a good fit for students looking for an accessible public university experience, with an acceptance rate of 88%. This openness invites a diverse student body, allowing people from various backgrounds to pursue their interests. Students here can dive into programs like Business and Marketing, Psychology, and Health Professions, making it a solid choice for those aiming for careers in growing fields.

After graduation, students can expect to earn around $44,666 within a decade. This earning potential reflects the university's focus on market-relevant programs. The affordability also stands out, especially for those who qualify for Pell Grants, as about 65% of students do. This financial support can be crucial for many who are navigating their paths after college.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Norfolk State, the net price after aid is about $15,282, while the median debt stands at $29,000. This means we need to consider how to manage that debt effectively. Generally, students who thrive here are those who take advantage of resources and support services, as well as those who are proactive in their studies and engagement on campus.

Rankings

How Norfolk Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation36%Earnings 10yr$45KNet Price$15KRetention73%Median Debt$29KPell Grant Rate65%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$13K$0-30K$14K$30-48K$16K$48-75K$26K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%2060.9%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1671.1%MOBILITY344.40%

Cost & Financial Aid

$10,180
In-State Tuition
$21,682
Out-of-State
$15,282
Avg Net Price
$29,000
Median Debt
65%
Pell Grant Rate
64%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$12,804
Family Income $0–$30K
$13,905
Family Income $30K–$48K
$15,507
Family Income $48K–$75K
$26,175
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$33,412
6 Years After Entry
$40,645
8 Years
$44,666
10 Years
0.65x
Debt-to-Earnings
50%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$33,412 6yr $40,645 8yr $44,666 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

344.40%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1671.1%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
2060.9%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$48,000
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.26
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
2.6%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 88%
Retention Rate 73%
SAT Average 927
ACT Midpoint 18
SAT Range 823–1030
ACT Range 16–22
Full-Time Faculty 54%
Faculty Salary (mo) $9,767
Diversity Index 0.35
First-Gen Students 37%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 15%
Psychology 14%
Health Professions 10%
Social Sciences 9%
Visual & Performing Arts 8%
Biology & Biomedical 6%
Communications 5%
Computer Science & IT 4%