Cleveland State University Overview

Cleveland State University is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Cleveland, OH. It has an enrollment of 10,208 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 91.29%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $15,544. Tuition is $11,690.00 without financial aid.

Cleveland State University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Cleveland State University, 69.58% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Cleveland State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1.

Cleveland State University Website

Cleveland State University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 91.29%.

SAT or ACT scores are required

• The average SAT score was 1114.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 23.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Cleveland State University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $15,544. The in-state tuition is $11,690.00. Out-of-state tuition is $16,653.00

The average tuition is:

• $13,349, when family income is less than $30,000

• $13,719, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $16,181, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $17,539, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $18,241, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 49.41% of students received a federal student loan and 37.99% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $16,653.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Cleveland State University Net Price Calculator

Cleveland State University Majors/Salaries

Cleveland State University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Cleveland State University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,138
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,864
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,518
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $59,901
• Education, General. (Doctoral Degree) – $73,446
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,424
• Student Counseling and Personnel Services. (Master’s Degree) – $40,017
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,736
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $35,774
• Education, Other. (Master’s Degree) – $43,540
• Education, Other. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $63,997
• Chemical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $60,061
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,415
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $65,849
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $77,966
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,920
• Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,673
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $54,020
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,087
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $43,000
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Biology Technician/Biotechnology Laboratory Technician. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,193
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $42,682
• Community Organization and Advocacy. (Master’s Degree) – $42,682
• Public Administration. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,127
• Public Administration. (Master’s Degree) – $46,087
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,995
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $43,626
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Criminology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,410
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,208
• International Relations and National Security Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,848
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,409
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,077
• Urban Studies/Affairs. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,704
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,420
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,894
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,615
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $47,260
• Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $64,406
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Doctoral Degree) – $63,666
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $55,942
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $75,204
• Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. (Master’s Degree) – $65,332
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,575
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $65,610
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $48,901
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $61,888
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,179
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,401
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $45,128
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,234
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,568

Cleveland State University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Cleveland State University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.22%
• Asian: 3.73%
• Black: 15.99%
• Hispanic: 7.70%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.10%
• Non-resident alien: 4.13%
• Two or more races: 4.28%
• Unknown: 1.13%
• White: 62.73%

At Cleveland State University, 19.30% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Cleveland State University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Cleveland State University?

Cleveland State University boasts strong school spirit, with hundreds of student organizations, sports teams, and events that foster a sense of community on campus. The campus is home to multiple athletic teams, including basketball, soccer, and track and field, all of which receive strong support from the student body. Additionally, the university hosts various events throughout the year, such as Homecoming, Greek Week, and the annual Block Party, which brings together students, faculty, and staff for a day of food, music, and fun. Overall, Cleveland State University’s school spirit is vibrant and engaging, making it an ideal place for students looking to get involved and build lasting relationships.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Cleveland State University?

Cleveland State University offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities to its students. Some of the most popular extracurricular activities at Cleveland State University include joining any of the student clubs and organizations such as Campus Activities Board, Undergraduate Student Government, Multicultural Student Organization, and National Society of Black Engineers. Sports are also popular at Cleveland State University, with the most popular being basketball, where the Cleveland State Vikings compete in the NCAA Division I Horizon League. Additionally, students can participate in intramural sports, community service, professional development and leadership activities, and cultural events.

How are the food choices at Cleveland State University?

Cleveland State University offers a wide variety of food choices on campus, including diverse options like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items. The university has several dining locations, including cafes, dining halls, and shops. CSU Dining Services also partners with popular brands such as Starbucks, Subway, and Dunkin’ to provide more choices for students. Overall, the food at Cleveland State University is well-received by students and has positive reviews.

Is there Greek life at Cleveland State University?

Yes, Cleveland State University has a Greek life community. There are several fraternities and sororities available for students to join. These organizations provide opportunities for social and leadership development, community service, and networking. To learn more about Greek life at Cleveland State University, you can visit the Office of Student Life website or contact the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

What is Cleveland State University known for?

Cleveland State University is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and law. Additionally, Cleveland State has a reputation for being an urban, commuter-friendly institution that emphasizes experiential learning opportunities for its students. The university also boasts signature programs in urban education, health professions, and environmental studies.

What are the most popular school clubs at Cleveland State University?

Cleveland State University offers a wide range of clubs and organizations for students to join, but some of the most popular ones include: 1. Student Government Association (SGA) 2. Campus Activities Board (CAB) 3. Greek life organizations 4. Academic clubs, such as the Accounting Club or Pre-Health Professionals Club 5. Cultural organizations, like the Black Student Union or Latinx Student Association 6. Honors societies, such as Phi Beta Kappa or Sigma Tau Delta 7. Performing arts groups, like the CSU Chorale or Theater Arts Association 8. Sports and recreational clubs, such as the CSU Outdoors Club or Club Volleyball 9. Service organizations, such as the Rotaract Club or Habitat for Humanity 10. Special interest organizations, such as the Anime Club or Environmental Awareness Club. Overall, there are over 200 student organizations at Cleveland State University, so there is something for every student to get involved in based on their individual interests.

Is the campus at Cleveland State University safe?

Cleveland State University is generally considered a safe university campus. The university has its own police department with officers patrolling the campus 24/7. The campus is well lit, and there are emergency call boxes situated throughout the campus. However, as with any urban campus, it is still important to take basic safety precautions such as walking in groups, reporting any suspicious activity, and being aware of your surroundings.