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Salem State University

Salem State University campus

At Salem State University — the Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University — you’ll learn by doing, find your people and graduate ready to lead in your career and community.

Academics: With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, professors know your name and are personally invested in your success. Choose from 33 majors, 100+ concentrations and 80+ minors. Not sure what to study? Our exploratory major helps match your strengths and interests to programs that prepare you for future success.

Affordability: Free or reduced tuition for many Massachusetts students, a tuition break for New England students and automatic savings for out-of-state students make Salem State accessible.

Belonging: Recognized as a Hispanic and minority-serving institution, Salem State is committed to equity, access and culturally responsive support. We also earned 4.5/5 stars from Campus Pride Index for LGBTQ+ inclusion, including a policy that lets you use your chosen name, inclusive housing and active student support.

Careers: From day one, you have access to 600+ employers on campus each year, personalized advising, resume and interview prep, and a 70,000+ alumni network that opens doors.

Campus life: Live where things are happening with 5 residence halls, 65+ clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, intramurals, Greek life, and arts events.

Location: The coastal city of Salem blends history, arts and Halloween energy, all close to Boston.

Discover the Salem State Difference.

Accepts first-year applicationsNew EnglandPublicSuburbanMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed

Academic programs

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Communication
  • Music
  • Art & Design
  • Economics
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Greek Life
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • LGBTQIA Services
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • Night Class Offerings
  • On-Campus Housing
  • ROTC Program
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Veteran Fee Waiver
  • Distance/online learning

Application information

First-year

All applicants are reviewed for admission based on academic course levels, grades and standardized test scores (if submitted). Before starting your application, view Salem State's first-year admissions requirements.

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Additional information

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but at Salem State, affordability is real.

  • Nearly 50% of students attend tuition-free
  • 98% receive financial aid
  • $15,547: Average aid package
  • $10,502: Average grants and scholarships
  • Ranked #23 in the nation for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report

Free Tuition and Fees: Massachusetts students with a family income of $75,000 or less may qualify for full coverage.*

Support for Middle-Income Families: Families between $75,000–$100,000 may qualify for a 50% reduction.*

Regional Savings: New England students qualify for the NEBHE Tuition Break.

Out-of-State Savings: Students from beyond New England automatically receive a $6,000 award.

Undocumented Student Support: Massachusetts high school completers may qualify for in-state tuition and can apply for TheDream.US National Scholarship (up to $33,000 plus stipends for books, housing and transportation).

*Programs subject to state funding and eligibility requirements. Room and board not included.

Visit us

Salem State University offers a vibrant seaside campus in the unique, historic city of Salem, Massachusetts. See what it's like to be a Viking by visiting our campus — we can't wait to show you around. 

The classes have intellectually challenged me, while the community has supported me. That combination has helped foster my individuality, which I know will help me make a difference in this world and share my light with others!