Norfolk State University
Norfolk State University is a public university in Norfolk, VA ranked #1015 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 5,392 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 87.8%. Students most often pursue Social Work and Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, 72.6% first-year retention, and 38.5% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $15,282, about $1,716 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -45.3%, roughly 130.6 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $33,412. That's about $10,276 below national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Norfolk State University has an acceptance rate of 87.8%, annual tuition of $10,180, average net price of $15,282, and a national rank of #1015 (Grade B), with a 38.5% six-year graduation rate, about 5,392 undergraduates, and median earnings of $33,412 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Norfolk 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
Norfolk State University graduates 38.5% of students within six years and keeps 72.6% 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 Norfolk 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 | $10,180 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $11,591 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,780 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,633 |
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 65.0% of Norfolk State University students receive Pell Grants — well 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 $12,804 to $26,175 depending on family income. Use Norfolk State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $17,972/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $26,175/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $33,412
- 10-Year Median Earnings $33,412
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $17,277
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 26.9%
- Employment Rate 84.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Norfolk 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.
Norfolk State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Norfolk State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Norfolk State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Norfolk State University graduates earn $33,412 median, the -45.3% 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 430-520
- SAT Math 393-510
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 16-22
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 5,392
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 72.6%
- Graduation Rate 38.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
How to Get Into Norfolk State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Norfolk 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 87.8%, Norfolk 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 87.8% acceptance rate, Norfolk 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 823 and 1030 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Norfolk State University undergraduates. Business/Commerce, General, Sociology, and Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, O draw the most students.
- Business/Commerce, General 11.5%
- Sociology 10.6%
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, O 9.0%
- Psychology, General 8.9%
- Social Work 7.9%
- Biology, General 6.9%
See more majors
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 5.6%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 5.5%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Social Work (Master's Degree) $60,811
- 2. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree) $59,924
- 3. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $58,014
Program Choice Matters: Graduate: Social Work programs lead with $60,811 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Norfolk 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
- Sociology (Bachelor's Degree, 75 graduates)
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 64 graduates)
- Social Work (Bachelor's Degree, 56 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 49 graduates)
- Social Work (Master's Degree, 42 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 (25 programs)▼
- Sociology
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Social Work
- Biology, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Construction Engineering Technologies
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Chemistry
- Accounting and Related Services
- English Language and Literature, General
- Mathematics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Engineering, Other
- Physics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
- Journalism
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
Online Master's Degrees (10 programs)▼
- Social Work
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Special Education and Teaching
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Physics
- Music
Online Doctoral Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Social Work
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Materials Sciences
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 5,392
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 32.5%
- Female Students 67.5%
- Caucasian 1.8%
- Asian 0.2%
- Hispanic 4.7%
- Black 80.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 65.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Norfolk State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Norfolk State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Norfolk 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 Norfolk State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Norfolk State University has a diverse student body, with 1.8% identifying as White. Women make up 67.5% of undergraduates. 65.0% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Norfolk 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 Norfolk State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Norfolk State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1015 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $15,282 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $33,412 median earnings. The 38.5% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 72.6% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Norfolk State University's Strengths
Ranked #1015 with a B grade, Norfolk State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Norfolk State University excel at providing affordable education ($15,282 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: Norfolk State University's 72.6% retention and 38.5% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($33,412 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Norfolk State University and $15,282 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 38.5% six-year graduation rate sits 24.0 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 72.6% first-year retention is 4.2 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -45.3% return on investment is 130.6 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $33,412 run about 24% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $15,282 is roughly $2,115 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 72.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 84.6% employment rate within three years sits 16.4 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
EDsmart rates Norfolk State University—a public university in Norfolk, VA—at B overall. It appears at #1015 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion C+, Support B-, Career Outcomes C+, 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.
72.6% of learners come back after year one while 38.5% complete the degree within six years. The reported ROI is -45.3%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
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 $15,282 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,633.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,351 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $17,277 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 65.0% 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 $33,412 at the median. That sits about 24% below the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 84.6% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -45.3% 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
87.8% 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 Norfolk 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Norfolk State University's acceptance rate?
Norfolk State University's acceptance rate is 87.8%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Norfolk State University cost?
At Norfolk State University, listed tuition and fees are $10,180 per year, and the average net price after aid is $15,282. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Norfolk State University's ranking?
Norfolk State University ranks #1015 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Norfolk State University's graduation rate?
At Norfolk State University, the six-year graduation rate is 38.5%, and first-year retention is 72.6%.
What are Norfolk State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Norfolk State University report median earnings of $33,412 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Norfolk State University's student population?
Norfolk State University enrolls about 5,392 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Norfolk, VA 23504-8000
- Website www.nsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$68.3M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate1.0%