Salem State University Undergraduate Viewbook 2025
This is Salem State University
Welcome to Salem State University, where the historic charm of Salem, Massachusetts, meets a vibrant community of learners and leaders dedicated to making a difference.
Known as the Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University and a Hispanic and minority-serving institution, we pride ourselves on our commitment to inclusivity, social justice and celebrating diversity.
Here, student success is our top priority, with faculty who know you by name and a wealth of resources to support your academic and personal well-being.
As a Viking, you’ll receive a high-quality, affordable education with hands-on experiences that prepare you for the future. Join us and discover a place where you’ll make lifelong friends, gain invaluable skills and be guided to achieve your best.
MASSACHUSETTS
Boston Salem
WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE SSU?
• A rich historical and cultural heritage, located in the historic city of Salem, renowned for its witch trials and significant role in American history
• A diverse range of academic programs, including an exploratory major that lets you explore interests before choosing a path
• Strong return on investment. Nearly 50% of our students qualify to attend for free, and 98% receive financial aid. Our career services team helps you turn that investment into real results.
• Emphasis on hands-on experiences through internships, research opportunities and experiential learning, providing you with practical skills and real-world exposure to complement your classroom education
• A supportive environment for students with diverse backgrounds and perspectives where you can forge lifelong connections with classmates, faculty and staff
• Opportunities to give back and make a positive impact through volunteerism, civic-learning courses and partnerships with local organizations, cultivating a sense of civic responsibility and social awareness among the student body
4,800+
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
38 COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
35
1 STATES REPRESENTED MILE FROM DOWNTOWN SALEM AND THE HEART OF HALLOWEEN
120+
RESTAURANTS IN SALEM
7 PUBLIC BEACHES
30 MINUTES FROM BOSTON
Programs that Fuel Your Passions
SELECTED ACCREDITATIONS
“Professors have helped me succeed in class, offered mentorship, sent internship opportunities, and written reference letters.”
—Myles DeBarros ’25 Sport and Movement Science major, Exercise Science concentration Dartmouth, MA
Academic Support
CENTER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE offers personalized support to help you stay on track, build confidence and reach your goals. Through academic advising and skillbuilding, it helps you take ownership of your learning and approach college with greater independence.
CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION creates meaningful opportunities for global engagement. Whether you study abroad, attend cultural events, explore global topics in class, or learn alongside international students, you’ll gain the perspective to thrive in a diverse, connected world.
FIRST YEAR SEMINARS break the mold. These courses aren’t tied to your major—they’re designed to surprise you, challenge how you think and spark meaningful conversations. A computer science seminar on knitting and community? Exactly.
MARY G. WALSH WRITING CENTER provides oneon-one help with any writing assignment. Tutors can support you with brainstorming, organizing your ideas and polishing your drafts—no matter where you are in the process.
MATH LEARNING CENTER gives you a supportive place to work through homework, prepare for exams and strengthen your skills. In-person and remote tutors help you build confidence and avoid common mistakes.
PROFESSORS AT SALEM STATE challenge you to grow while supporting you along the way. They’re passionate educators, active researchers and dedicated mentors who understand that life happens beyond the classroom—and they genuinely care about your success.
COMMONWEALTH HONORS PROGRAM
provides exceptional students with the rewarding opportunity to pursue a more challenging curriculum. Honors students work with specially selected faculty, learn in a small group seminar format, participate in independent research, and learn to think independently and creatively.
If you have a passion for learning, Salem State’s Honors program offers the chance to pursue a curriculum of challenge and inquiry at a higher level.
As an added benefit, Honors students receive an automatic $1,000 scholarship per year. salemstate.edu/honors
12:1 STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
(2024-25 Academic Year)
Firsts Matter
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE (FYE) ensures that you have access to the resources and support you’ll need to successfully navigate the transition from high school to university life. Whether it’s your first class, meeting your first new friend, joining your first student organization, or any other number of “firsts,” the FYE team is here to help guide you on that journey.
As a new student, you’ll be assigned a personal coach to keep you motivated and on track all year long.
Your first-year experience will lay the foundation for your continued success in academic, intellectual, social, and civic endeavors throughout your undergraduate career.
“From day one, professors made it clear they were here to support us academically and personally. I also found a great group of friends early on who were driven, kind and just as excited as I was. That combination of academic and social support made it feel like home.”
—Amya Enlow ’25
Politics, Policy and International Relations major Legal Studies and Media and Communication minors Worcester, MA
Academic Access
CENTER FOR ACCESSIBLE
ACADEMIC
RESOURCES (CAAR) fosters an inclusive learning environment for all Vikings. Through tutoring, supplemental instruction and tailored support for students with disabilities, CAAR ensures every student has the tools to succeed.
• Academic and Campus Accommodations works with students who self-identify as having a disability and would like to request support. Services and accommodations that provide equal access to curriculum and/or campus experiences are determined through documentation review and an interactive meeting with the student.
• Disability Access promotes an accessible experience by coordinating services and accommodations for visitors to Salem State and our students. We encourage all to participate in our programs and activities.
• Peer Tutors are highly recommended undergraduate students who excel in the courses they tutor. They break down challenging material and offer study tips.
• Supplemental Instruction offers peer-led outof-class sessions for select courses with historically challenging material and provides opportunities to review course concepts, engage in discussions with supportive peers, and prep for exams.
salemstate.edu/services
Student Services and Support
CAREER SERVICES supports you from day one with career exploration, resume building, internships, interview skills and employer connections. Use CliftonStrengths and Focus2 assessments to identify and articulate your career, academic goal and personal development strengths. Get free interview and workplace attire from the Career Closet and take a professional headshot for your LinkedIn profile.
COUNSELING AND HEALTH
SERVICES is staffed by nurse practitioners, psychologists, licensed mental health counselors, post-doctoral fellows, and advanced graduate interns. Health services offers medical care, consultation on health-related issues, health promotion programs, referrals, and collaboration with area providers and primary care physicians.
STUDENT NAVIGATION CENTER
(SNC) is your one-stop for navigating the business of being a student. From financial aid and billing to course registration and your ClipperCard (the official university ID card and your gateway to campus), SNC service representatives guide you through complex processes with care and clarity. They’ll help you build the confidence and skills to manage your college journey with independence.
VETERANS’ AFFAIRS assists current and former service members of the armed forces as well as survivors and dependents with both state and federal educational benefit programs.
theBeyondClassroom
Vikings at Work
“This community represents resilience, collaboration and the power of diversity, which fuels my passion for becoming a teacher of color.”
—Naresa Raymond ’25, ’26G 4+1 Elementary Education major Spanish minor Cambridge, MA
GAIN CAREER SKILLS
Vikings have interned or participated in clinical placements at many local, regional and national organizations. salemstate.edu/careers
Make an Impact
Through civic learning and community service initiatives, you can make a change within your community. We host several annual events and leadership opportunities to inspire you to become socially responsible.
SALEM STATE’S CIVIC FELLOWSHIP is a unique civic leadership program for you to explore your strengths, values and passions. Fellows develop their civic identity and individual role in working toward social change. They participate in leadership training, service projects and organize advocacy campaigns while building a sense of community amongst the cohort.
FI RST YEAR DAY OF SERVICE introduces new students to dozens of community partners to connect with their mission and complete service projects, from public schools to environmental groups, arts foundations, and mentoring organizations. salemstate.edu/CCE
Broaden Your Horizons
STUDY ABROAD and enhance your view of the world. You can study almost anywhere because we work with studyabroad providers who offer programs in nearly every region!
There are many opportunities for you to experience study travel outside of the U.S., including:
• Fall or spring semester programs through a partner university or external program
• Short-term winter or summer programs (2-8 weeks)
• Faculty-led study travel programs (7-10 days)
• Internship programs
The study abroad office works closely with each student to find the best program based on cost, academic requirements, personal interests, and professional goals. salemstate.edu/abroad
NATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE
(NSE) allows you to study at other colleges and universities in the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Explore a different geographical and cultural environment while broadening your academic experience. salemstate.edu/NSE
Learn and Lead
Working with our community to address important social, political, economic, and environmental issues is a cornerstone of the Salem State experience. Vikings are socially responsible and make an impact in their communities while earning their degree and after graduation.
Our Center for Civic Engagement is the nexus for community-based initiatives, civic learning and public engagement at Salem State. We’re a Carnegie Community Engagementclassified university. salemstate.edu/CCE
Advocacy
Our advocacy work empowers you to develop the skills, tools and resources to drive positive community change. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from diverse expert advocates tackling a wide range of critical issues affecting our society.
Civic Learning
Civic learning is about gaining the knowledge necessary to serve the public good. When you graduate, you’ll have the expertise, abilities, values, and resources to collaborate effectively within your communities and workplaces, addressing our most significant social challenges.
Community
You’ll engage with and make a difference in the North Shore community and beyond. We focus on building sustainable and equitable partnerships with local organizations, advancing their missions while tackling the issues that matter most to our communities.
The Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics is a nonpartisan institute that aims to engage and inspire our community to take an active role in our democracy and to pursue careers in politics and public service.
• Leads Salem State’s voter engagement
• Provides on-campus voting location for local and national elections
• Hosts political discussions and debates
• Supports students with career interests in politics and public service
• Awards competitive scholarship offerings in the areas of government, politics, civic engagement, non-profit and other means of public service
salemstate.edu/BerryIoP
“Being the Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University is important to me because it reflects our campus’s dedication, passion and commitment to creating positive social change.”
—Liv Duarte ’25
Psychology major Social Work, Sociology and Women’s Studies minors Harwich, MA
ADVOCACY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE-RELATED PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
4,000+ STUDENTS REACHED DURING 2024 ELECTION OUTREACH BY VIKINGS VOTE AMBASSADORS
$195,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDENTS PURSUING INTERNSHIPS IN POLITICS AND PUBLIC SERVICE
Academic Year)
There’s SomethingAlways to Do
From participating in intramural sports to getting involved with student government, we offer various programs and events to keep you engaged!
Salem State offers 50+ student organizations to help you gain new skills and make new connections. Did you know you can start your own group or club?
“As soon as I arrived, I felt like I had finally found the college experience I was looking for. The welcoming, close-knit community of peers, athletes and professors made it easy to feel at home. Plus, the location is a huge bonus— there’s always something to do in Salem, whether you’re downtown or hanging out on campus.”
—Savannah Scrodin ’25
Nursing major Biology minor Bristol, VT
Campus Life and Recreation
GASSETT FITNESS CENTER
All students receive a FREE membership to our Harold E. and Marilyn J. Gassett Fitness and Recreation Center. Gassett is open to all students and offers cardio and strength equipment, locker rooms, studios, lounge spaces, and recreational courts.
INTRAMURAL AND CLUB SPORTS
Basketball, Flag Football, Pickleball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball
ESPORTS LOUNGE
Take your gaming to the next level! We have state-of-the-art gaming PCs and consoles waiting for you.
Our space brings students from all majors and backgrounds together to build community and engagement on our campus. Leagues and tournaments allow you to test and hone your skills in an exciting and supportive environment.
POPULAR ANNUAL EVENTS AND PROGRAMMING
Spring Concert welcomes popular artists and nightlife experiences to campus! Last year, Program Council featured Valhalla, a unique, state-of-the-art super club night with a premier DJ, an immersive light show and VIP lounges.
Gassett After Dark brings Vikings together for a night of friendly blacklight tournament competition.
Viking Warrior Field Day is a campus-wide celebration featuring DJs, food trucks, inflatable obstacle courses, and more!
Superfan Tailgate is our official social kick-off to the new school year and sports season! Meet friends, enjoy great food and celebrate the affinity we share as Vikings.
Group Fitness Classes include pilates, yoga, strength training, and more!
YouHereBelong
We celebrate diversity by organizing inclusive events, including cultural festivals and guest speaker series, highlighting various traditions and perspectives. The university fosters a sense of belonging by offering support services, clubs and organizations that embrace and empower students from diverse backgrounds.
A PROUD HISPANIC AND MINORITY-SERVING INSTITUTION (HSI-MSI)
S alem State is proud to be classified by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities as a Hispanic and minority-serving institution based on our student demographics. salemstate.edu/HSI
What does this mean for all students?
• A culturally enriching environment that fosters diversity, inclusivity and understanding among students from various backgrounds
• Increased access to specialized support services and resources tailored to the unique needs of underrepresented communities, enhancing your academic success and overall experience
• A competitive advantage in the job market, as employers increasingly seek individuals with diverse perspectives and cross-cultural communication skills
“Being part of an HSI-MSI community means having resources designed to help students like me succeed and the opportunity to see my culture and identity celebrated. It also gives others the chance to learn about and enjoy different cultures.”
—Larissa Goncalves ’25 Media and Communication major Philosophy, Psychology minors Framingham, MA
CENTER FOR JUSTICE AND LIBERATION (CJL)
The CJL serves as a comprehensive, collaborative community space that honors, centers on and advocates for the holistic development and retention of students of underrepresented, marginalized and stigmatized identities.
MULTICULTURAL GROUPS, CLUBS AND TRADITIONS
• APIDA Heritage Month
• Asian Student Association
• Black History Month
• Black Student Affinity Spaces
• Black Student Union
• Bold, Educated, Empowered Sisters
• The Brotherhood
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation
• Haitian Cultural Club
• Hip-Hop Summit
• Hispanic and Latine Affinity Spaces
• Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month
• Latin American Student Organization
LGBTQIA+ AND WOMEN’S GROUPS, CLUBS AND TRADITIONS
• The Alliance
• Intersectional Feminist Collective
• Pride Flag Raising Ceremony
• Queer Prom
• Rainbow Resource Fair
• Raspberry Swirl: A Drag Extravaganza
• Pride Month
• Transgender and Non-Binary Affinity Spaces
• Women’s History Month
• Women’s Leadership Retreat
CAMPUS PRIDE INDEX
Our campus received a 4.5/5 star ranking in a national assessment of colleges and universities based on our institutional commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusive policies, programs and practices, and showcasing our dedication to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
GENDER-INCLUSIVE HOUSING
See A Campus Called Home (pg. 17).
GENDER-INCLUSIVE RESTROOMS
There are single-stall, gender-inclusive restrooms in facilities across campus.
CHOSEN (PREFERRED) NAME POLICY
Salem State community members may use a different name for various reasons to ensure an experience that best reflects them while at the university.
You may use a preferred name to identify yourself, including on class rosters, ClipperCard and other campus services and technologies.
LGBTQIA+ AND MULTICULTURAL COUNSELING
Counseling services has multiple counselors dedicated to LGBTQIA+ and multicultural mental health care, who support initiatives that foster the psychosocial-cultural well-being of students from diverse backgrounds and identities.
LGBTQIA+ POLICE LIASON
A dedicated university officer serves as the LGBTQIA+ liaison to the campus community affinity spaces. The officer is an additional community resource for LGBTQIA+ students and coordinates programs to support the LGBTQIA+ community on campus.
#2 50% 46% 26%
UNIVERSITY IN MASSACHUSETTS ON COLLEGENET’S SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX OF FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS ARE FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS OF STUDENTS ARE STUDENTS OF COLOR OF STUDENTS ARE HISPANIC (2024-25 Academic Year)
A CampusCalled Home
Welcome Home, Vikings!
From creating lifelong friendships in our residence halls to immersing yourself in the rich cultural history of Salem, our campus isn’t just a place to attend classes; it’s a home away from home.
We invite you to explore the unique and enriching lifestyle that comes with living on campus at Salem State.
Take a 360° virtual tour of residence halls right from your phone by scanning the QR code or visiting salemstate.edu/virtual
Why Live on Campus?
• Live near classes, library, dining halls, and all campus has to offer
• Access to on-site faculty (faculty in residence) and resident assistants (RAs) to support your success
• Weekly programs in your hall to help you meet friends and create connections around campus
GENDER-INCLUSIVE HOUSING
We provide an inclusive, comfortable environment for all our students. Gender-inclusive housing at Salem State is a living option within our residence halls where student housing is not limited by gender.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
All residence halls are staffed by a full-time, comprehensively trained residential staff member with a master’s degree, a master’s-seeking graduate resident director and RAs. A 24-hour security/information desk is located at the entrance to each hall.
VIKING DINING
• Customizable entrees, fresh organic foods, international favorites
• Gluten-free, protein-rich, vegan and vegetarian options
• Dining locations: Marsh Dining Commons and North Campus Café, express dining and takeout across campus, Dunkin’, Starbucks
• On-site registered dietitian to meet 1:1 and help you discover healthful lifestyle habits
“Seeing how connected the campus community was and how easy it was to form relationships made me feel like I belonged here.”
—Luke Day ’25 Biology major Criminal Justice minor Ottsville, PA
1,500+ STUDENTS LIVE ON CAMPUS
55% OF FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS LIVE ON CAMPUS
5
(2024-25 Academic Year)
Atlantic Hall
Modern apartments, vibrant energy and community-centered living!
• Vibrant living on Harrington Campus
• Modern residence housing 450 students in 77 six-person apartments
Live Like a Viking Bowditch
• Overlooks Marsh Quad, the Salem Bike Path and the scenic salt marsh
APARTMENT FEATURES
• Fully furnished apartments with two double rooms, two single rooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and living room
• Kitchens equipped with full-size stove and refrigerator
AMENITIES
• Small lounges throughout the building
• Ground floor features a fitness room, laundry area, pool tables, TV lounge area
CAMPUS PROXIMITY
Live steps away from Marsh Hall and Dining Commons, Forten Hall, Starbucks, Bertolon School of Business, Viking Shuttle stop, baseball field, and tennis courts.
Tour Atlantic Hall now!
Get an inside look at our residence halls and see why you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to live on campus.
Hall and Peabody Hall
These twin halls offer proximity to key campus locations, enabling an enriched university lifestyle right in the heart of campus.
• Conveniently situated on North Campus
• Offers fully furnished double or premium single rooms
• Features include a fitness area, laundry room, pool and foosball tables, flat-screen TV, vending machines, and a shared kitchen
CAMPUS PROXIMITY
Steps away from classroom buildings (Meier and Sullivan), North Campus Café, our state-of-theart library, Dunkin’, Viking Shuttle stop, and Gassett Fitness Center.
Tour Bowditch Hall now!
Atlantic Hall
Charlotte Forten Hall
Suite-style comfort meets the latest amenities. Charlotte Forten Hall is the newest, most dynamic residence hall on Harrington Campus.
SUITE FEATURES
• Bedrooms, entryway space and bathroom in each suite
• Common lounges on every floor for relaxing and connecting with friends
AMENITIES
• Starbucks and meeting spaces with separate entrance
• Cozy TV and study lounges throughout the building
• Large community space, fitness room, vending machines and laundry area
CAMPUS PROXIMITY
Steps away from Marsh Hall and Dining Commons, Starbucks, Bertolon School of Business, Viking Shuttle stop, baseball field, and tennis courts.
Tour Charlotte Forten Hall now!
Marsh Hall
Enjoy easy access to campus hot spots, creating the perfect backdrop for your university journey.
• Harrington Campus location, housing 525 students across five floors
• Offers fully furnished double or premium single rooms
• Each floor offers multiple lounge/study areas, community spaces and gender-inclusive bathrooms
AMENITIES
Fitness room, flat-screen TVs, video game consoles, Bluetooth speaker bar, pool tables, vending machines, and laundry room.
CAMPUS PROXIMITY
Steps away from Marsh Dining Commons, Starbucks, Bertolon School of Business, Viking Shuttle stop, Atlantic Hall, Charlotte Forten Hall, Marsh Quad, and Salem Bike Path.
Tour Marsh Hall now!
Marsh Hall
Peabody Hall
Forten Hall
Bowditch Hall
Art + design, creative writing, dance, music, and theatre are a core of vibrant activity and creative exploration on our campus. Students can experience the arts in and out of the classroom. We encourage you to take advantage of all that Salem State’s creative community has to offer.
Participate in public readings of your original poetry and fiction, take the stage in a dramatic play or musical, perform a solo in a music ensemble, share your work at our arts coffeehouses, craft your own choreography, create sculptures from recycled materials, write a play and see it performed, volunteer for the Massachusetts Poetry Festival, exhibit your art work, or engage with guest artists in workshops and other events. salemstate.edu/arts
Featured Student Arts Groups
AUDIO ENGINEER SOCIETY creates opportunities for student musicians to learn from other like-minded professional audio engineers across the world and to network with people in the student’s field of interest.
REPERTORY DANCE THEATRE provides students with performance opportunities, including a dance concert each semester.
STUDENT THEATRE ENSEMBLE provides students with performance and production opportunities on campus.
UNDRGRD is a street dance collective that uses hip hop, K.R.U.M.P., popping, bruk-u, and more—where movement becomes a tool for healing and a voice for the voiceless through the radical act of self-expression.
URBAN ART
THEATRE shares the stories of people of color and sparks social change.
Salem State’s intercollegiate athletic teams, recognized as some of the most successful programs in New England, are annual contenders for Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) championship honors.
We’re a proud member of the NCAA Division III with a rich tradition of excellence in intercollegiate athletics. Our student-athletes are empowered to be high achievers in and out of the classroom and leaders on campus. salemstate.edu/athletics
CONFERENCES
Go Green
We’re not just committed to shaping the future; we’re dedicated to protecting it. From our eco-friendly campus initiatives to hands-on opportunities for you to lead green projects, you’ll find countless ways to make a positive impact.
Vikings are addressing the climate crisis by pursuing campus decarbonization, broadening student scholarship and deepening community connections.
Our campus boasts over 1 MW (megawatt) of rooftop solar panels and five LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified buildings. Our North Campus Decarbonization project will drill 100 geothermal wells to help eliminate fossil fuels in buildings.
A student initiative obtained Tree Campus Higher Education certification for Salem State in 2025.
Getting around without a car is easy, with the Salem Skipper Van Share, a bike path from Harrington Campus to downtown, two Bluebike hubs on campus, and 16 more across the city. For drivers, we have 27 electric vehicle charging spots.
Learn
• Take one of the sustainability courses offered across disciplines
• Pursue a sustainability major or minor
• Research with a professor or external organization
• Present your research at a conference in your field
Engage
• Become a Sustainability Council intern
• Attend Earth Days events to learn from subject matter experts or enter the Earth Days writing or research poster contests
• Garden, plant a tree or harvest at First Year Day of Service
• Join a sustainability-focused club such as the Bio Society, Geographical Society, Greenhouse Club, and more
Implement
• Use a reusable OZZI “Go-Box” for takeout meals from Marsh Dining Commons
• Fill your reusable water bottle at our 34 campus refill stations
• Give or take free clothes, footwear, books and dorm décor at one of five Freecycle tables or our Career Closet
• Green your commute with a Bluebike or ride your own
2
8 BLUEBIKE HUBS ON CAMPUS
ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAYS
100+
salemstate.edu/sustainability
salemstate.edu/sustainability
SUSTAINABILITY COURSES ACROSS DISCIPLINES
49%
850 30+ GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION FROM 2004 TREES PLANTED SINCE 2022 KEN SARO-WIWA CLIMATE JUSTICE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED ANNUALLY
$1,000
PEOPLE ENGAGED DURING EARTH DAYS WEEK
(2024-25 Academic Year)
SSU BOLD A Campus Built ƒor the Future
Decarbonization Project
Salem State is leading the way in sustainability by replacing its outdated central heating plant with a new, geothermal system, starting with the Horace Mann renovation and Meier Hall addition.
salemstate.edu/ssu-bold
Salem State’s once-in-a-generation campus revitalization project is transforming how—and where— students learn. With cutting-edge labs, hands-on classrooms and a bold commitment to sustainability, SSU BOLD is about preparing you to succeed in high-demand careers while learning in spaces designed with you in mind.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• Decommissioning the current fossil-fuel-powered boiler
• Installing geothermal heating and cooling in key academic buildings
• Constructing a new underground utility corridor
• Preparing for a future solar array on North Campus
This project aims to create a more efficient, climate-conscious campus, providing year-round comfort in classrooms and labs. It also reflects Salem State’s commitment to modeling sustainable choices for our students and the Commonwealth.
Meier Hall Addition
A brand-new wing on the south side of Meier Hall will expand Salem State’s science and research capacity with modern labs and collaborative spaces for all students.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• 7 flexible science teaching labs
• Shared prep space for lab materials and equipment
• Student study and collaboration areas
• Improved building connectivity and circulation, including a new elevator
• A newly accessible courtyard entrance that meets ADA standards
• A cascading rain garden to manage stormwater and support sustainability
• Seamless integration with the existing building and campus landscape
This addition supports enrollment growth in STEM and helps students persist in science coursework and research.
Horace Mann Building Renovation
A comprehensive renovation of the Horace Mann Building will create a modern hub for health and human services programs, integrating criminal justice, healthcare studies, nursing, and occupational therapy into the heart of campus.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• 5 flexible general-purpose classrooms
• 2 computer classrooms
• 2 bedside skills labs
• 2 nursing simulation suites
• 1 occupational therapy lab
• 5 student hubs
• 5 office suites
• A new accessible, campus-facing entrance
This modern, hands-on learning environment prepares students to serve communities across the Commonwealth—in hospitals, clinics, schools, and the justice system.
State Viking
“You’ll be welcomed with open arms, no matter who you are or your identity.”
Understanding the Admissions Application Review Process
Our admissions counselors review all applicants for direct entry to their first-choice major. We encourage applicants to always elect a first- and second-choice major. Admissions decisions for non-competitive majors are released weekly and live on the Salem State Navigator portal.
Learn more about our admissions requirements at salemstate.edu/undergraduate
GPA and Standardized Test Requirements
We are a test-optional institution, focusing our admissions decision on an applicant’s academic work and grade point average (GPA), which research shows are better predictors of academic success. As a state university, we can offer admission to applicants who have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above in most of our non-competitive majors.
All applicants are automatically considered for an alternative admissions program, Summer Bridge Academy (SBA). SBA is a program to aid high school graduates in achieving academic success in college.
We generally advise applicants with a 2.5 GPA or lower to voluntarily submit additional application materials, including:
• Test scores (SAT/ACT) directly from their testing agency
• Letter(s) of recommendation from a teacher, high school guidance counselor, coach, employer, or mentor
• Essay
Visit salemstate.edu/testoptional
Apply
To apply, we require:
• A complete application
• $50 application fee
• All official transcripts
Apply online at salemstate.edu/apply
(Nursing applicants: visit salemstate.edu/nursing-reqs for official application details.)
Deadlines
Below are suggested deadlines; we follow a rolling admission process until a program is full (nursing deadlines are firm).
Photographer Jonathan Hillyer
Your Financial Aid Roadmap
What is Financial Aid?
Financial aid helps cover the cost of college. It may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. The type and amount you receive depend on your family’s financial situation.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what you qualify for. Visit studentaid.gov and use Salem State’s school code: 002188.
“As a first-generation college student, affordability was a significant factor. Salem State delivered a strong education with professors who have real-world experience. I also received financial aid and scholarships that helped reduce the financial burden.”
—Chris DaSilva ’25 Criminal Justice major Accounting minor Worcester, MA
How to Pay for College
Most students pay through a combination of:
• SAVINGS
• SCHOLARSHIPS
• GRANTS
• WORK-STUDY
• LOANS
• FAMILY INCOME
You don’t need to have it all figured out now—start with the FAFSA.
Financial Aid Timeline
AUGUST 1
ADMISSIONS APPLICATION
AVAILABLE ONLINE salemstate.edu/apply
OCTOBER 1
FAFSA AVAILABLE ONLINE
Salem State’s school code is 002188 studentaid.gov
DECEMBER
FINANCIAL AID
PACKAGES RELEASED
Salem State begins sending financial aid offers to admitted students in December on a rolling basis.
What Happens Next?
Once you’ve submitted your FAFSA and been admitted, our financial aid office will create a financial aid package customized to your family’s financial circumstances.
YOUR FINANCIAL AID PACKAGE
WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
Your Cost of Attendance (COA)
The total estimated cost to attend Salem State for one academic year, which includes:
• TUITION AND FEES
• ROOM AND MEAL PLAN (IF LIVING ON CAMPUS)
FEBRUARY 15
FINANCIAL AID PRIORITY DEADLINE
The sooner you apply for financial aid, the more institutional funds (such as grants and scholarships) may be available.
MAY 1
FAFSA DEADLINE for Massachusetts residents to be considered for MASSGrant funds
ENROLLMENT AND HOUSING DEPOSITS DUE salemstate.edu/pay-deposit
• INDIRECT COSTS like off-campus housing and transportation (if commuting), books, supplies, and personal expenses
Your Student Aid Index (SAI)
A number generated from your FAFSA that helps determine your financial need and the individual aid programs you qualify for. This may include grants, scholarships, loans, or work-study.
Your Net Price (Costs-Aid)
The amount you’ll actually pay to attend Salem State for one academic year.
Invest in Your Success
salemstate.edu/affordable
Are you from Massachusetts?
M assachusetts students with a household income of $75,000 or less who complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need will receive free tuition and mandatory fees.
For families with higher incomes, recent increases in federal and state financial aid— combined with Salem State’s own scholarships and institutional support—mean many eligible Vikings can still earn their degree with little or no tuition and fee costs.
Are
you
from New England?
C onnecticut | Maine | New Hampshire | Rhode Island | Vermont
New England students save big through the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) Tuition Break Program. Day students from New England receive big tuition discounts for any major.
Are you from the U.S.?
Students from outside New England automatically receive a $6,000 out-of-state award—bringing their cost close to the in-state rate.
THE DREAM.US NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP
Covers full tuition and fees for highly motivated undocumented students who are eligible for instate tuition and have significant unmet financial need. salemstate.edu/dream
HAROLD T. AND ALICE M. MCCARTHY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
A comprehensive four-year scholarship covering tuition, fees, room and board, and books for a first-year art + design major with financial need. salemstate.edu/McCarthy
JACK WELCH SCHOLARSHIP
Covers tuition, fees, and books for a Salem, Massachusetts resident enrolled full-time in the Bertolon School of Business. salemstate.edu/Welch
Learn more about these and other scholarship opportunities at salemstate.edu/scholarships
Majors and Concentrations
ART + DESIGN
(portfolio required after completing 21 credits in the major) Art History, Graphic Design, Painting, Printmaking, Studio Art/Photography
BIOLOGY
Nuclear Medicine Technology; (combined undergraduate/ graduate educator licensure programs are available)
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION*
Accounting, Analytics and Management Science, Corporate Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Financial Planning, Hospitality Management, Human Resource Management, Information and Data Science, International Business, Management, Marketing; (combined Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Master of Science in Accounting is also available)
CARTOGRAPHY AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
(combined Bachelor of Science in Cartography/Master of Science in Geo-Information Science is also available)
CHEMISTRY
Biochemistry
COMPUTER SCIENCE
CRIMINAL JUSTICE*
Criminal Investigation, Criminal Justice and Spanish, Criminology; (combined Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Criminal Justice is also available)
DANCE
(major does not require an audition/portfolio)
ECONOMICS
EDUCATION*
(additional criteria may be required for admission to specific concentrations. All teacher license endorsements occur at the graduate level.) Early Education and Care, Educational Studies—Community Education, Educational Studies—Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Social Justice in Education (fouryear program), Social Justice in Education with options in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education (joint bachelor’s/master’s pathway completed in five years). Students interested in teacher preparation programs for biology, English, history, or mathematics in middle or high school and specialists in physical education or Spanish must apply to their content major, not education. All teacher preparation pathways are joint bachelor’s/ master’s programs completed in five years.
ENGLISH
Creative Writing, Professional Writing; (combined undergraduate/graduate educator licensure programs are available; combined Bachelor of Arts in English/Master of Arts/Education/in Teaching are also available—see website for offerings)
EXPLORATORY (undeclared)
FRENCH
(see World Languages)
GEOGRAPHY AND SUSTAINABILITY
Environmental Sustainability, Sustainable Tourism
GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Applied Geosciences: Sustainability; Earth Science, Earth Studies, Forensic Geoscience; (combined Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences/Master of Science in Geo-Information Science is also available)
HEALTHCARE STUDIES*
Healthcare Studies and Spanish
HISTORY
Africa, Asia and Latin America History, Applied History: Pre-Legal/Business, European History, Public History, United States History; (combined undergraduate/graduate educator licensure programs are available)
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
American Studies, Ethnic Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies
ITALIAN
(see World Languages)
LIBERAL STUDIES*
MATHEMATICS
(combined undergraduate/graduate educator licensure programs are available)
MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION
Advertising, Journalism, Public Relations
MUSIC
(major does not require an audition/portfolio)
NURSING
PHILOSOPHY
POLITICS, POLICY AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
American Government, Law and Policy; International Relations and Comparative Politics
PSYCHOLOGY*
Applied Behavior Analysis; (combined Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Bachelor of Science in Psychology/ Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology are also available)
SOCIAL WORK*
SOCIOLOGY
SPANISH
(see World Languages)
SPORT AND MOVEMENT SCIENCE*
Exercise Science (Honors, Prehabilitation and Professional tracks), Recreation, Outdoor and Event Management, Sport Management (combined undergraduate/ graduate educator licensure programs are available)
BFA: Design, Directing, Performance, Playwriting, Stage Management, Technical Theatre (audition/portfolio required for admission to all BFA concentrations)
WORLD LANGUAGES AND CULTURES
Criminal Justice and Spanish, French, Healthcare Studies and Spanish, Italian, Spanish; (combined undergraduate/ graduate educator licensure programs in Spanish are available)
EVENING ONLY PROGRAMS
ACCELERATED BSN
(must have a U.S. completed BA or BS)
LPN TO BSN
(must be a licensed LPN or RN and a copy of license is required. LPN students will transition to full-time day status when they are ready to enter the first semester of junior nursing clinical courses.)
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH STUDIES (transfer only)
Bachelor’s and master’s programs (must be a licensed COTA and a copy of COTA license is required; an associate degree is also required)
COMBINED DEGREE/4+1 PROGRAMS
Combined degree programs allow you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree faster than if pursued separately. You start master’slevel courses in your senior year and complete the entire program in the fifth year, saving you time and money.
BACHELOR OF ARTS/MASTER OF ARTS/MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING/MASTER OF EDUCATION ENGLISH
(see website for offerings)
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE/MASTER OF EDUCATION EDUCATION
Justice in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education; Justice in Special Education, Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE/MASTER OF SCIENCE
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
(combined with Master of Science in Accounting)
CARTOGRAPHY
(combined with Master of Science in Geo-Information Science)
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(combined with Master of Science in Geo-Information Science)
PSYCHOLOGY
(combined with Master of Science in Behavior Analysis or Industrial/ Organizational Psychology)
ACCELERATED 3+3 BA/JD
Students who select the accelerated 3+3 BA/JD option spend three years at Salem State working towards their bachelor’s degree, then transfer to UMass Law. Their first year of law school counts as the fourth year of their bachelor’s degree. Applicants must apply and enroll in another area of study before applying to the BA/JD program. salemstate.edu/pre-law
ONLINE UNDERGRADUATE COURSES AND DEGREES
Salem State offers various online degree programs and many partial or completely online courses, providing the flexibility you need to earn your degree. salemstate.edu/online
CRIMINAL JUSTICE, FIRE SCIENCE ADMINISTRATION
(associate degree in Fire Science is required), HEALTHCARE STUDIES, SOCIAL WORK
*Major can be completed in the evening; not all concentrations are available.
Subject to change. Visit salemstate.edu/programs for an up-to-date list.
