Pittsburg State University
Acceptance rate
89.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$19,744
In-state $8,400
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,472
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
36.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 55.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Pittsburg State University (PSU), located in the vibrant city of Pittsburg, Kansas, is renowned for its strong emphasis on student success and community engagement. Established in 1903, PSU has developed a reputation for its comprehensive programs and supportive learning environment. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, and arts. One of its standout features is the College of Technology, which focuses on hands-on experience and practical skills, preparing students for the demands of the workforce. The university's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its dedicated faculty, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields and actively engage with students through mentorship and research opportunities.
Campus life at Pittsburg State University is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students. The university prides itself on its rich traditions and active student organizations, which encourage participation in various extracurricular activities. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers that promote a well-rounded student experience. PSU is also known for its impressive athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball, which not only enhance school spirit but also provide opportunities for students to engage in competitive sports. With a focus on both academic and personal growth, Pittsburg State University continues to be a preferred choice for many students seeking a nurturing and dynamic educational environment.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Pittsburg State University
The data from Pittsburg State University reveals notable trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that merit discussion. Over the years, there has been a consistent increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, the in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $5,906 in 2014 to $8,156 in 2024, reflecting a significant increase of approximately 38%. Similarly, the out-of-state undergraduate tuition jumped from $15,786 to $19,500 in the same period, representing a 23% increase. This upward trend in tuition costs can be a significant concern for prospective students and their families, especially considering the growing burden of student debt nationwide.
In contrast to the rising tuition, graduation rates for undergraduates have shown improvement over the years. The percentage of students graduating on time increased from 28.2% in 2013 to 32.9% in 2023. This positive trend may indicate enhanced academic support and resources at the university, contributing to better student outcomes. Furthermore, the 150% graduation rate also reflects a gradual increase, suggesting that more students are completing their degrees within an extended timeframe, even if they encounter challenges.
Student retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 74% to 75% from 2014 to 2023. This stability is encouraging, as it implies that the majority of students are satisfied with their university experience and choose to continue their education at Pittsburg State University. However, the slight decline in overall student enrollment numbers, from 6,236 in 2014 to 4,489 in 2023, raises questions about the university's appeal in a competitive higher education landscape.
Overall, while the rising costs of tuition pose challenges, the improvements in graduation rates and stable retention figures suggest that Pittsburg State University is taking steps to support its students effectively. Balancing affordability with quality education will be crucial for the university's future success and attractiveness to prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Fayetteville, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- Pitt State
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Thomas Newsom (President)
- Phone
- 6202317000
- Address
- 1701 S Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 95.0%, women 96.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Pittsburg State University
The admission data from Pittsburg State University over the years reveals notable trends in acceptance rates, enrollment figures, and the demographics of applicants. The overall acceptance rates for male and female applicants have fluctuated, with male acceptance rates peaking at approximately 95% in 2020, while female rates reached around 96%. These high acceptance rates indicate that Pittsburg State University has maintained a relatively open admission policy, which may cater to a diverse student body.
Enrollment numbers have varied, with a peak of 1,161 students in 2012, followed by a gradual decline, with the lowest enrollment recorded in 2023 at 847 students. The rejection numbers also illustrate this trend, as they peaked at 669 in 2012, reflecting the competitive nature of admissions during that time. However, the university has consistently admitted a significant number of students, suggesting a commitment to accessibility.
Interestingly, the deferment rates have also seen variability, with a high of 1,430 deferrals in 2023. This may indicate a growing trend of students opting to delay their college experience, possibly influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused many prospective students to reconsider their immediate enrollment plans.
Overall, the data suggests that while Pittsburg State University remains an accessible option for many students, changing trends in enrollment and deferment may require the administration to adapt its strategies to ensure a vibrant campus community in the coming years.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Pittsburg State University
The admissions data from Pittsburg State University reveals notable trends in standardized test submissions and scores over the years. The reliance on the ACT for admissions is evident, with a high percentage of applicants submitting scores, particularly between 2007 and 2016, where the submission rates hovered around 89% to 99%. However, there was a significant drop to 65% in 2017, indicating a possible shift in admissions strategy or applicant demographics.
As we move towards the years 2020 to 2023, a new pattern emerges with the introduction of SAT scores. In these years, only 4% of the admitted students submitted SAT scores, suggesting that the university may have been focusing more on ACT submissions or that fewer students chose to submit SAT scores. This aligns with a broader national trend of colleges re-evaluating their testing requirements, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, where many institutions began to adopt test-optional policies.
The available score ranges for SAT and ACT also provide insight into the academic preparedness of incoming students. The SAT reading and math scores indicate a range from 478 to 600, while ACT composite scores reflect a diverse range of academic achievement among students. This variability in scores highlights the importance of holistic admissions processes that consider multiple aspects of an applicant’s profile.
Overall, the data from Pittsburg State University illustrates an evolving landscape in higher education admissions, where standardized test scores play a crucial role, but their importance may be diminishing as universities adapt to changing educational environments and student needs.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
3,138 applicants in 2025, 89.4% admitted
2,806 admitted 332 not admitted Yield 31.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other · Master's195 (5% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's60 (0% international)
- Industrial Technology/Technician · Master's47 (81% international)
- Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General · Master's44 (82% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's26 (0% international)
- Behavioral Sciences · Master's22 (5% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Pittsburg State University
The graduation data from Pittsburg State University for 2023 reveals noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant number of graduates, totaling 122 for the bachelor's degree. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has amplified the urgency for skilled nurses in the workforce.
In contrast, the Business Administration and Management program shows a diverse landscape, with no graduates at the bachelor level but a substantial output at the master's level, producing 196 graduates. This suggests a shift in focus towards advanced education in business, potentially driven by the competitive job market that favors candidates with higher qualifications.
Interestingly, the education sector, particularly Elementary Education and Teaching, has no recorded graduates, raising concerns about the future supply of educators. This scarcity may reflect broader trends in teacher shortages seen across the nation, which have been exacerbated by challenging working conditions and compensation issues.
Moreover, the absence of international students in several programs indicates a potential area for growth. As institutions worldwide increasingly seek to attract international talent, Pittsburg State University could benefit from enhancing its global outreach to diversify its student body.
In summary, the graduation data highlights significant trends in healthcare and business education while raising concerns about educational workforce sustainability. Addressing these challenges could be crucial for the university's future strategic planning and alignment with labor market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $35,309 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $42,826 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $89,945 | ||||
| Accounting. | $57,501 | ||||
| Finance, General. | $51,726 | ||||
| Human Resources Development. | $73,227 | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $49,870 | ||||
| Construction Management, General. | $71,645 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $57,268 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $55,186 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $53,698 | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $42,992-$51,882 | ||||
| Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. | $42,992-$51,882 | ||||
| Technology Teacher Education/Industrial Arts Teacher Education. | $44,361-$56,725 | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $44,361-$56,725 | ||||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $72,207-$105,631 | ||||
| Nursing Science. | $72,207-$105,631 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $72,207-$105,631 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | $33,149 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,965 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,666 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Polymer Chemistry. | - | ||||
| Physics, General. | - | ||||
| Materials Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $36,089 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair Technology/Technician, General. | - | ||||
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Design. | - | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printing Management. | $40,509 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $37,860 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst. | $55,682 | ||||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | $34,698 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||||
| Geography. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,154 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
Students
5,755 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 77.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,887
- First-year undergraduates 881
- Graduate students 1,283
- Transfers and others 704
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,472)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Pittsburg State University in 2023
Pittsburg State University reflects a diverse and balanced student body in 2023, with the largest group consisting of undergraduate freshmen, numbering 847, where females slightly outnumber males with a ratio of 51% to 49%. This trend of balanced gender representation continues among undergraduate upperclassmen, where males make up 50.8% of the 3,035 students, indicating a steady environment for both genders in higher education.
Interestingly, the undergraduate transfer student population shows a higher ratio of males at 55.8%, which might suggest that more male students are seeking to transition into different programs or institutions. Conversely, the graduate student demographic has a significant female majority, with 59.9% of the 1,369 students being women. This could be reflective of broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees across various disciplines.
The ethnic breakdown of these groups, particularly among freshmen and transfer students, is noteworthy. Although detailed statistics for the undergraduate upperclassmen and graduate students are not fully available, the data indicates a substantial representation of white students across all categories. This demographic information provides insights into the university's community, highlighting both the need for continued efforts to enhance diversity and the progress made in gender representation.
Overall, the student demographics at Pittsburg State University in 2023 illustrate a commitment to inclusivity and gender balance, paving the way for a supportive academic environment for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Pittsburg State University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Pittsburg State University in 2023 reveals several interesting trends. A significant proportion of the student body is composed of traditional-aged students, particularly those in the 18-21 age range. For instance, nearly 79% of the undergraduate male population and approximately 86% of the undergraduate female population fall within the 18-21 age bracket. This reflects a common trend in many universities where young adults are the predominant demographic.
As students age, the numbers begin to decline. The 22-24 age group accounts for a notable 24% of the total male student population, while the female counterpart represents 14% of the overall female population. However, as we move into older age categories, such as 25-29 and above, there is a visible decrease in enrollment. For example, the 25-29 age group constitutes only about 11% of the total male students and 17% of the total female students. This shift could indicate that many students are completing their degrees earlier or choosing to enter the workforce rather than pursuing further studies.
Interestingly, the data shows a relatively small representation of students aged 30 and older, with only 7% of male students and 15% of female students in this category. This may reflect broader societal trends where older adults are less likely to enroll in traditional degree programs, potentially due to career commitments or family responsibilities.
Overall, the age composition at Pittsburg State University highlights the predominance of younger students, aligning with national trends in higher education. As the university continues to adapt to changing demographics, understanding these patterns will be crucial for shaping future academic offerings and student support services.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
114 in 2025 · 6.2% in 2016
158 in 2025 · 14.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Pittsburg State University
The international student enrollment data from Pittsburg State University over the years highlights significant fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the undergraduate international student percentage peaked at 6.17% in 2015, reflecting a period of growth and increased global interest in the university. However, this trend did not sustain, as by 2021, the percentage dropped dramatically to just 1.53%. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted international travel and student mobility.
Similarly, the graduate international student proportion also witnessed a peak of 15.66% in 2009 but experienced a substantial decline in subsequent years, reaching 6.29% by 2021. This decline suggests a possible decrease in the appeal of the university for international graduate students, perhaps due to shifting perceptions of the U.S. educational landscape and competition from institutions abroad.
The drop in both categories raises concerns about the university's global engagement and its ability to attract diverse talent. As international students contribute significantly to campus culture and local economies, the university might need to strategize on restoring and enhancing its international outreach. This could involve targeted recruitment efforts, partnerships with foreign institutions, and improved support services for international students. As we move forward, monitoring these trends will be vital for the university's growth and sustainability in an increasingly global educational environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$29,978
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,744
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,400
- Room and board
- $10,234
- Graduate tuition
- $20,302
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$150M
Expenses$129M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 168 | 139 |
| Football | 134 | - |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Soccer | - | 40 |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 165 | 117 |
| Football | 120 | - |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 164 | 114 |
| Football | 132 | - |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 95.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 109.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of KansasLawrence · 112.2 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 113.6 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 143.6 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 157.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 160.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 164.8 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 167.7 mi
U.S. News #95
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Pittsburg State University:
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its strong research initiatives.
-
University of Tulsa - With a rank of 195, this private university is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate education and has a vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151, this comprehensive university is well-known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - This university ranks 185 and is celebrated for its strong emphasis on agriculture, engineering, and business programs.
-
Kansas State University - Ranked 170, this institution offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research contributions.
-
Washington University in St Louis - With an impressive rank of 24, this prestigious university is known for its rigorous academics and outstanding faculty.
-
Saint Louis University - Ranked 105, this Jesuit university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its commitment to service and community engagement.
These institutions provide various educational opportunities and are known for their academic excellence in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Pittsburg State University
The crime data from Pittsburg State University reveals a significant decline in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students over the years. In 2013, the crime rate was notably high at 16.52, indicating a challenging environment for students. However, by 2023, this figure has dropped to 7.68, reflecting a positive trend towards improved safety on campus.
The data highlights a steady decrease in various types of offenses, with notable reductions in incidents of assault and drug-related arrests. For instance, the number of gun-related arrests remained zero across multiple years, suggesting effective measures in place to prevent such occurrences. Furthermore, the decline in alcohol-related arrests points to potential successful outreach programs aimed at curbing binge drinking and its associated risks among students.
In 2021 and 2022, the university reported its lowest crime rates, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a secure campus environment. This trend aligns with broader national efforts to enhance safety in educational institutions, particularly in the wake of increasing concerns surrounding campus violence and substance abuse.
Overall, the data indicates that Pittsburg State University is making strides in reducing crime rates, which is crucial for the wellbeing of its students. Continued efforts in safety education and community engagement will be essential in maintaining this positive trajectory. For those interested in understanding the methodology behind calculating crime rates, further information can be found at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Pittsburg State University include Gary Busey (Actor Oscar-nominated for The Buddy Holly Story), Harry Reems (Pornographic actor, star of Deep Throat) and James Tate (Poet, Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winner).
-
Gary Busey 1944–
Actor Oscar-nominated for The Buddy Holly Story
-
Harry Reems 1947–2013
Pornographic actor, star of Deep Throat
-
James Tate 1943–2015
Poet, Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winner
-
Lee Scott 1949–
Third CEO of Wal-Mart Stores
-
Jake LaTurner 1988–
Former U.S. Representative from Kansas
-
Jennifer Knapp 1974–
Christian singer-songwriter and author
-
Eka Tjipta Widjaja 1922–2019
Founder of Indonesia's Sinar Mas Group
-
Brian Agler 1958–
Basketball coach and Wittenberg University athletic director
-
Sherm Lollar 1924–1977
Professional baseball player and coach
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.