Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University admits 68.5% of applicants, meaning approximately 7 in 10 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Winston-Salem State University in the Moderately Selective category, making it more accessible than highly competitive institutions while maintaining academic standards.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Winston-Salem State University is somewhat more selective than typical public regional universities, which tend to admit most qualified applicants. The 16-percentage-point difference from the peer median suggests the university exercises moderate selectivity in its admission process.

This level of selectivity means that students with solid academic credentials have good prospects for admission, though the university does evaluate applications rather than maintaining completely open admission. Students should expect a holistic review process that considers multiple factors beyond test scores and grades.

For prospective students, this selectivity level indicates they should present a complete application with attention to all components, but most academically prepared students can reasonably expect admission. The moderate selectivity creates opportunities for students who might not qualify for highly selective institutions while maintaining an academic environment with engaged peers.

Winston-Salem State University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,345 annually, including $6,735 in-state tuition, $11,484 for room and board, and $1,690 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $17,391, though most students benefit from financial aid that substantially reduces actual costs.

The average student pays $13,393 after financial aid, representing savings of $8,952 from the sticker price. This net price of $13,393 sits $700 above the peer median of $14,093, indicating costs slightly above similar public regional universities but within reasonable range.

The financial aid system at Winston-Salem State University demonstrates progressive pricing that varies significantly by family income level. Net costs range from $11,012 for families earning under $30,000 to $20,815 for those earning over $110,000, creating a $9,803 spread that targets aid toward those with greatest financial need.

This income-based pricing structure reflects the university's commitment to access for lower-income students while maintaining revenue from families with greater ability to pay. The moderate net price combined with strong earnings beyond expectations creates favorable conditions for return on educational investment.

Winston-Salem State University graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over time, with median earnings rising from $40,557 six years after enrollment to $43,867 at eight years and $45,344 at ten years, representing 11.8% growth from the six-year mark. These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 1,796 graduates, providing high confidence in reported figures.

The institution generates $5,989 in earnings beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing Winston-Salem State University in the 77th percentile for earnings uplift and achieving well above average tier performance. Low-income graduates earn $34,200, reflecting the institution's focus on serving economically diverse student populations.

Earnings span from $29,750 at the 25th percentile to $66,577 at the 75th percentile, representing a 2.2:1 ratio that reflects differences in program choice and career trajectory. Approximately 34.8% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

Winston-Salem State University offers 13 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for evaluation. Adult Health Nursing dominates the program portfolio, graduating 268 students with median earnings of $73,285 and ranking #70 nationally and #2 in North Carolina with a strong value score of 74.8.

Blood Bank Technology Specialist ranks #15 nationally and #1 in North Carolina, graduating 48 students with median earnings of $59,239 and achieving a value score of 69.6. Clinical Research Coordinator ranks #39 nationally and #4 in North Carolina, producing 90 graduates earning $42,216.

Animal-Assisted Therapy ranks #14 nationally and #1 in North Carolina, graduating 56 students with median earnings of $33,674. Exercise Science and Kinesiology represents the university's second-largest program with 97 graduates earning $35,607.

The concentration in health sciences programs reflects Winston-Salem State University's institutional strengths and regional workforce needs.