Cleveland State University
The Vibe Check
Cleveland State University feels like an energetic, urban campus where students are constantly on the move and connected to the city. It's a practical, no-frills environment that thrives on the buzz of downtown Cleveland, fostering a culture of grit and real-world readiness.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 980
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
CSU is a powerhouse for career-focused education, particularly in Health Professions, Business, and Engineering. The curriculum is hands-on, with strong co-op and internship programs that leverage the university's downtown location for real-world experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Cleveland
Students take full advantage of Cleveland's vibrant arts and sports scene, from catching a Guardians or Cavaliers game to exploring the West Side Market. The city's lakefront parks, world-class museums, and bustling restaurant scene offer endless options for fun and exploration.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,131):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is secured with its own police force and a network of blue-light emergency phones. While the surrounding downtown area requires standard urban awareness, the university provides safety escorts and a robust alert system.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Excellent value and affordability for a major metropolitan university
- ✓ Prime downtown location provides unmatched access to internships and jobs
- ✓ Very high acceptance rate makes it accessible to a wide range of students
- ✓ Strong, career-oriented programs in high-demand fields like health and engineering
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are below the national average
- ✗ The urban setting may feel overwhelming for students from rural areas
- ✗ Campus life can feel commuter-focused, with less of a traditional residential college atmosphere
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Cleveland State University is known for its strong, career-focused programs in Health Professions, Business, and Engineering. Its defining feature is its urban campus integrated directly into downtown Cleveland, providing students with unparalleled access to internships, co-ops, and city life.
No, Cleveland State University is not hard to get into. It has a very high acceptance rate of 95.48%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 980.
Campus life at CSU is urban and dynamic, with a student body of just over 9,000. The university offers over 200 student organizations and a Division I athletics program. Its location in the heart of Cleveland means students have the city as their campus, with access to museums, sports, and entertainment just steps away.
Yes, Cleveland State University represents a strong financial value. With an average net price of $16,065 and 10-year median earnings of $52,131, the ROI is compelling, especially for in-state students. The low tuition and high availability of financial aid (39% Pell Grant rate) make it an affordable path to a degree with good earning potential.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 11,390
- In-State Tuition $12,613
- Out-of-State $17,973
- Zip Code 44115
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $16,065 and strong financial aid availability, CSU offers a solid return on investment. The 10-year median earnings of $52,131, combined with relatively low tuition, make this a financially sound choice for many students.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.