About Salem State University
Salem State University is a four-year, public institution located in Salem, Massachusetts. It was founded in 1854 as Salem Normal School, and, because of the high demand for teachers, the school thrived and expanded to include liberal arts and professional programs. Salem State began enrolling men in 1898, and after many name changes over the years became Salem State University in 2010. Today this comprehensive university is diverse and welcomes students of all types. Salem State offers a student-focused curriculum that allows students to explore their “passions” while gaining real-world experience.
SSU awards bachelor’s and master’s degrees along with undergraduate and graduate certificates and licensure programs. Salem State also offers fully online degree programs and non-credit programs, as well as a variety of certificate programs and online courses. Salem State University online degrees are offered in a flexible format. These degrees allow students to study where it is convenient. A number of hybrid degrees are also offered, providing students with more degree options.
Accreditation & Licensing
Salem State University is accredited by:
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Type:
4-year, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Post-master's certificateReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 6,001 ; Graduate: 1,805Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 10% ; Graduate: 32%Graduation Rate:
55%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$56,662Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$25,000Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
71%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$8,277Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesFeatured Ranking Reports
Salem State University is featured in 2 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Salem State University is located in Massachusetts
Massachusetts at a Glance:

Top Majors in Massachusetts:
Top Incentives in Massachusetts:
- MASSGrant: Up to $3,100 annually
- John and Abigail Adams Scholarship: Full tuition at state institutions
- Gilbert Matching Student Grant: Up to $2,500 annually
Top Career Pathways in Massachusetts:
- Entry Level: Research Associate ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Project Manager ($110,000)
- Senior Level: Research Director ($180,000+)
- Required Education: BS Biotechnology
- Certifications: PMP, Six Sigma, Quality Systems
- Entry Level: Software Engineer ($85,000)
- Mid Level: Senior Developer ($135,000)
- Senior Level: Technical Director ($190,000+)
- Required Education: BS Computer Science
- Certifications: AWS, Azure, Security+
- Entry Level: Clinical Innovation Specialist ($70,000)
- Mid Level: Innovation Manager ($120,000)
- Senior Level: Innovation Director ($175,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, PMP, CPHIMS


