Shaw University
The Vibe Check
Shaw University offers an intimate, close-knit campus experience where students are not just numbers but familiar faces in a supportive community. As a historically black university, there is a palpable sense of legacy and resilience, with a student body that is highly motivated and focused on academic success. The small campus size fosters strong personal connections with faculty and peers, creating a nurturing environment for personal growth.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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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
Shaw University provides a robust liberal arts foundation with notable strengths in Business & Marketing, Parks, Recreation & Fitness, and Communications. The small class sizes ensure personalized attention from dedicated faculty who are committed to student mentorship and quality teaching. While research opportunities are present, they are often tailored to undergraduate involvement, focusing on practical application and community-based projects.
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 Raleigh
Raleigh offers a vibrant mix of college-town energy and big-city amenities, with students frequenting the downtown bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The city is known for its extensive park systems and greenways, perfect for outdoor activities, and is part of the Research Triangle, providing a youthful and intellectual atmosphere.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($34,409):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting, and while it has its own campus security, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Raleigh is generally considered a safe city compared to other metropolitan areas, but standard urban safety precautions are always advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable private education with a low average net price
- ✓ Supportive, close-knit HBCU community with small class sizes
- ✓ Historic campus with a strong sense of legacy and tradition
- ✓ Location in Raleigh provides access to job opportunities in the Research Triangle
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation (16.6%) and retention (56.0%) rates indicate challenges in student persistence
- ✗ Median post-graduation earnings are relatively low compared to national averages
- ✗ Smaller campus and enrollment may offer fewer resources and extracurriculars than larger universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Shaw University is North Carolina's first historically black university, founded in 1865. It is known for its historic legacy, strong sense of community, and academic programs in business, criminal justice, and the social sciences. The university has a notable history of producing leaders in the African American community.
Shaw University has an acceptance rate of 30.48%, making it a selective institution. Applicants should aim for a strong GPA and competitive test scores. However, the university also considers holistic factors, and the high Pell Grant rate suggests a commitment to admitting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Campus life at Shaw is intimate and community-focused due to the small enrollment of around 839 students. Students experience a supportive HBCU environment with strong faculty-student interaction. The urban location in Raleigh allows students to access city amenities, while on-campus activities foster a tight-knit student body.
Shaw University can be worth the cost for students who take advantage of its affordability and supportive network. With an average net price of $14,083, it is a low-cost option for a private degree. However, prospective students should be proactive in their career planning to ensure they achieve earnings above the median $34,409, maximizing the value of their investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,015
- In-State Tuition $17,176
- Zip Code 27601
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,083, Shaw University is significantly more affordable than many private institutions, especially considering the high Pell Grant rate indicates substantial financial aid for students. However, the 10-year median earnings of $34,409 are below the national average for college graduates, suggesting that while the upfront cost is low, the return on investment requires careful consideration of the chosen major and career path. The value is maximized for students who leverage the supportive environment to secure stable employment in high-demand local fields.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.