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Colleges / MA / Salem
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Salem State University

Public Salem, MA · Suburban · New England · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
52%
Graduation Rate
$56,662
Earnings (10yr)
$15,996
Net Price
96%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an acceptance rate of 96%, Salem State University is an accessible choice for many students seeking a supportive environment. This school is particularly well-suited for those interested in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or Education. The diverse academic offerings cater to a wide range of interests, making it a practical option for students who want to explore various fields before settling on a career path.

Looking ahead to life after graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $56,662 within ten years. This figure illustrates the potential for a solid return on investment, especially considering the affordability of the school. The cost of attendance after aid is around $15,996, which can be a reasonable figure when compared to the earnings graduates can achieve. This balance suggests that many graduates find a pathway to financial stability, even if the graduation rate stands at 52%.

When it comes to the financial aspect, the median debt for graduates is $25,000, which is manageable for many. With 35% of students receiving Pell Grants, Salem State University strives to support those who may need it most. Students who tend to thrive here often appreciate a practical approach to education, valuing a balance of academic rigor and real-world application. This is a place where hard work can lead to meaningful opportunities.

Rankings

How Salem Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation52%Earnings 10yr$57KNet Price$16KRetention75%Median Debt$25KPell Grant Rate35%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$11K$0-30K$14K$30-48K$14K$48-75K$23K$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%704.0%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%2745.0%MOBILITY193.26%

Cost & Financial Aid

$12,338
In-State Tuition
$19,531
Out-of-State
$15,996
Avg Net Price
$25,000
Median Debt
35%
Pell Grant Rate
49%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$10,516
Family Income $0–$30K
$13,870
Family Income $30K–$48K
$13,821
Family Income $48K–$75K
$23,223
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$48,209
6 Years After Entry
$54,540
8 Years
$56,662
10 Years
0.44x
Debt-to-Earnings
70%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$48,209 6yr $54,540 8yr $56,662 10yr

Social Mobility

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

193.26%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
2745.0%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
704.0%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$87,100
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.74
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.00
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
5.9%
Volunteering Rate
0.98
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 96%
Retention Rate 75%
Full-Time Faculty 100%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,694
Diversity Index 0.66
First-Gen Students 40%

Top Programs

Health Professions 23%
Business & Marketing 16%
Psychology 9%
Criminal Justice 9%
Education 9%
Biology & Biomedical 6%
Visual & Performing Arts 5%
Social Sciences 4%