Shawnee State University

School Overview

Shawnee State University is located in Portsmouth, OH, 45662, set within a city environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #112 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.

Shawnee State University has an acceptance rate of 76%, providing broad access to higher education and welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds.

With just 2,997 undergraduates, Shawnee State University provides an intimate academic setting where small class sizes and close faculty mentorship are central to the student experience. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 73% 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 35%, 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 Shawnee State University include Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other (10% of students, median early-career salary: $44,610), Computer Programming/Programmer, General (6% of students), and Psychology, General (6% of students, median early-career salary: $53,076). 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.

Room and board adds approximately $12,832. However, the average net price after financial aid is $14,144, 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 Shawnee 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. Shawnee 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 Shawnee State University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.