Norfolk State University

School Overview

Norfolk State University is located in Norfolk, VA, 23504, set within a city environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #59 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Norfolk State University has an acceptance rate of 88%, providing broad access to higher education and welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 820-1030 and ACT scores of 16-22. The average high school GPA among enrolled freshmen is 3.0.

Norfolk State University enrolls 5,412 undergraduate students, creating a mid-sized community where students can explore diverse academic interests while still being recognized by their professors. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 50% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 15%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at Norfolk State University include Psychology, General (14% of students), Business/Commerce, General (13% of students), and Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (9% of students). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

However, the average net price after financial aid is $15,577, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Norfolk State University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Norfolk State University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Norfolk State University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.