Northeastern State University
Northeastern State University is a public university in Tahlequah, OK ranked #1439 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B-, enrolling about 4,636 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 99.2%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Management Information Systems and Services.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 62.8% first-year retention, and 37.2% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $11,800, about $5,198 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -12.7%, roughly 98.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $41,207. That's about $2,481 below national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Northeastern State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Northeastern State University graduates 37.2% of students within six years and keeps 62.8% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Northeastern State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $7,513 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $10,494 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,020 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $19,274 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 42.4% of Northeastern State University students receive Pell Grants — above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $9,624 to $17,134 depending on family income. Use Northeastern State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $16,943/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $17,134/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $41,207
- 10-Year Median Earnings $41,207
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $12,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 52.5%
- Employment Rate 85.5%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Northeastern State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Northeastern State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Northeastern State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Northeastern State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Northeastern State University graduates earn $41,207 median, the -12.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 455-585
- SAT Math 465-560
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 18-23
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 4,636
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 62.8%
- Graduation Rate 37.2%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into Northeastern State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Northeastern State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 99.2%, Northeastern State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 99.2% acceptance rate, Northeastern State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 920 and 1145 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Northeastern State University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Research and Experimental Psychology, and Business Administration, Management and Operations draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 9.1%
- Research and Experimental Psychology 8.2%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 7.3%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 7.1%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 6.7%
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 6.1%
See more majors
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness 4.7%
- Accounting and Related Services 4.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $99,835
- 2. Management Information Systems and Services $89,588
- 3. Computer Science $82,556
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians $68,684
- 5. Accounting and Related Services $63,470
- 6. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $62,912
- 7. Finance and Financial Management Services $61,112
- 8. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other $59,214
- 9. Biology, General $56,259
- 10. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services $55,516
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Optometry (First Professional Degree) $128,096
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $98,309
- 3. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $93,687
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $78,311
- 5. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $75,505
- 6. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $60,009
- 7. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $59,707
- 8. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $56,730
- 9. Curriculum and Instruction (Master's Degree) $56,535
- 10. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $56,535
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $99,835—80% more than Communication Disorders Sciences and Services ($55,516). Graduate: Optometry programs lead with $128,096 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Northeastern State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree, 45 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 44 graduates)
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree, 43 graduates)
- Optometry (First Professional Degree, 28 graduates)
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Bachelor's Degree, 20 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (6 programs)â–¼
- Computer Science
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Mathematics
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Engineering Physics
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
Online Master's Degrees (6 programs)â–¼
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Accounting and Related Services
- Natural Sciences
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)â–¼
- Special Education and Teaching
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Optometry
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 4,636
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 38.4%
- Female Students 61.6%
- Caucasian 44.1%
- Asian 2.5%
- Hispanic 8.1%
- Black 4.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients 42.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Northeastern State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Northeastern State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Northeastern State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Northeastern State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Northeastern State University has a diverse student body, with 44.1% identifying as White. Women make up 61.6% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Northeastern State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Northeastern State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Northeastern State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1439 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $11,800 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $41,207 median earnings. The 37.2% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 62.8% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Northeastern State University's Strengths
Ranked #1439 with a B- grade, Northeastern State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Northeastern State University excel at providing affordable education ($11,800 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Northeastern State University's 62.8% retention and 37.2% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($41,207 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Northeastern State University and $11,800 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 37.2% six-year graduation rate sits 25.3 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 62.8% first-year retention is 14.0 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -12.7% return on investment is 98.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $41,207 run about 6% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $11,800 is roughly $5,318 lower than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 62.8% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 85.5% employment rate within three years sits 17.3 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Tahlequah, OK, Northeastern State University operates as a public university and receives a B- from EDsmart. It appears at #1439 in EDsmart's national list Completion earns C, Support C+, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability A-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 62.8% of first-year students return, and roughly 37.2% finish within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -12.7%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $11,800 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $19,274.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $7,474 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $12,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 42.4% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $41,207 at the median. Compared with the national median, that's 6% lower.
Roughly 85.5% of graduates are employed three years out.
Plan around an ROI of about -12.7% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
99.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Northeastern State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Tahlequah, OK 74464-2399
- Website www.nsuok.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$25.4M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate25.7%