Fayetteville State University
Acceptance rate
82.1%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$8,353
In-state $4,353
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,074
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
27.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 43.6%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Fayetteville State University (FSU) is a public historically black university located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Established in 1867, FSU is part of the University of North Carolina system and has a rich history of providing accessible education to students from diverse backgrounds. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of academic excellence, civic engagement, and a commitment to the community. FSU’s motto, “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,” reflects its dedication to producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also socially responsible and ready to contribute positively to society.
The campus boasts a vibrant student life with numerous organizations, clubs, and activities that promote a strong sense of community and engagement among students. FSU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple fields, including business, education, and science, with a focus on preparing students for successful careers. The university also emphasizes research and hands-on learning, providing students with opportunities to engage in projects that benefit the local community. The athletic programs at FSU are robust, with a variety of sports teams that foster school spirit and camaraderie among students. Overall, Fayetteville State University stands out for its commitment to academic achievement and community service, making it a noteworthy institution for students seeking a well-rounded education.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Fayetteville State University
The data from Fayetteville State University reveals significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention that merit discussion. Over the years, tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trajectory. From 2014 to 2022, in-state tuition increased from $4,605 to $5,379, while out-of-state tuition rose from $15,401 to $16,987. Notably, there was a sharp decline in both in-state and out-of-state tuition in 2023, which may reflect a strategic response to financial accessibility challenges faced by students.
Furthermore, the graduation rates exhibit a notable improvement in the 2023 academic year, with on-time graduation rates climbing to 23.08% compared to earlier years, where rates hovered around 9.39% to 17.13%. This increase is promising, suggesting potential improvements in academic support and student engagement initiatives at the university.
Retention rates, however, present a mixed picture. While retention peaked at approximately 79.06% in 2016, it subsequently dipped to around 63.33% in 2022, before rebounding slightly to 69.71% in 2023. This fluctuation indicates that the university may need to enhance its support services to maintain student engagement and satisfaction over time.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, generally ranging between 15 to 18 students per faculty member. A lower ratio often correlates with improved academic outcomes, suggesting that Fayetteville State University is maintaining a favorable environment for personalized instruction.
Overall, while the university has made strides in graduation rates, the fluctuating retention rates and rising tuition pose challenges that require ongoing attention and strategic planning.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Raleigh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Darrell Allison (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 9106721111
- Address
- 1200 Murchison Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28301-4298
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 63.6%, women 70.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Fayetteville State University
The admission data for Fayetteville State University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. Notably, the male acceptance rate has fluctuated from 75.57% in 2009 to a low of 45.62% in 2015, indicating a tightening of admissions. The female acceptance rate has similarly seen a decrease, from 79.33% in 2009 to 52.72% in 2015, highlighting the increasing competitiveness for female applicants as well.
In terms of enrollment, there is a noticeable decline between 2010 and 2015, where the number of enrolled students dropped significantly from 582 to 476. This decline coincided with an increase in the number of denied applicants, peaking at 2,042 in 2015. This suggests that the university may have been adjusting its admissions strategy to manage enrollment numbers in response to external factors such as funding, resources, or institutional capacity.
Interestingly, from 2020 onwards, we observe a resurgence in both male and female acceptance rates, with male acceptance reaching 72.91% and female acceptance at 82.16% in 2021. This could indicate a strategic shift to attract more students post-pandemic, as many universities have faced challenges in maintaining enrollment during this period.
Overall, the data reflects the dynamic nature of university admissions and the external pressures that influence these trends. As higher education institutions continue to navigate the post-COVID landscape, understanding such patterns will be crucial for prospective students and policymakers alike.
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
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 · 2% submitted SAT, 8% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores and Submission Rates at Fayetteville State University
The data from Fayetteville State University reveals a notable trend in the admission scores and the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a clear decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 96% in 2007 to just 4% in 2023. This sharp decrease suggests a significant shift in the university's admission strategy, possibly influenced by the growing movement towards test-optional policies in higher education.
The SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile starting score for reading improving from 370 in 2007 to 440 in 2023. Conversely, the 75th percentile ending scores have also increased, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to achieve higher marks. This could imply a more competitive applicant pool or a shift in the demographics of students who choose to apply.
The decline in submission rates may be reflective of broader changes in educational assessment, where students are increasingly opting for schools that do not require standardized test scores. Many universities are recognizing that standardized tests may not fully capture a student's potential or readiness for college. As a result, Fayetteville State University may be adapting to this trend, attracting a diverse range of applicants who might not have considered applying previously due to testing requirements.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions and the potential impact of test-optional policies on both the applicant pool and the academic standards of incoming students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
6,515 applicants in 2025, 82.1% admitted
5,352 admitted 1,163 not admitted Yield 14.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's150 (7% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's65 (2% international)
- Psychology, General · Master's29 (0% international)
- Sociology, General · Master's27 (0% international)
- Social Work · Master's26 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral18 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Fayetteville State University
The graduation data from Fayetteville State University for 2023 reveals some notable trends across various fields of study. One striking observation is the significant number of graduates in Business Administration and Management, which accounts for the highest number of master's degree recipients, with 127 awarded. This indicates a strong interest in business-related programs, likely reflecting the growing demand for skilled professionals in this sector, particularly in light of the post-pandemic economic recovery.
Additionally, the field of Education shows a robust output, particularly at the master's level, where there are a total of 57 graduates. This aligns with the current emphasis on educational reform and the need for qualified educators, which has been a focal point in many discussions about systemic improvements in the United States. Moreover, the presence of international students in education, though small, suggests a growing interest in the U.S. education system from abroad.
Interestingly, while fields such as Psychology and Health Care Administration have notable master's graduates, there are no international students graduating from these programs, indicating potential barriers to entry for international scholars in these disciplines. This could reflect broader trends regarding immigration policies and the accessibility of advanced education for non-residents.
Overall, the data illustrates a university that is not only responding to labor market demands but is also reflective of larger societal trends, such as the importance of education and business in the evolving job landscape. As the university continues to adapt its offerings, monitoring these graduation trends will be essential for understanding the future workforce and educational needs.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $42,205-$72,572 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $42,205-$72,572 | |||
| Accounting. | $57,755 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,038-$50,010 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $39,762 | |||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $81,742 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $40,031 | |||
| Fire Services Administration. | $74,857 | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | $36,977 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $85,949 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $44,575-$47,738 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $44,575-$47,738 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $44,575-$47,738 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $44,575-$47,738 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geography. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | $43,714 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $36,161-$50,273 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $42,104 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,751 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $23,224 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $34,890 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strategic Intelligence. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
7,107 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 32:68 · Freshman retention 75.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,966
- First-year undergraduates 753
- Graduate students 1,033
- Transfers and others 1,355
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,074)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Fayetteville State University in 2023
The student population at Fayetteville State University showcases a diverse array of backgrounds and gender representations for the year 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 786 students, with a notable gender distribution of 31.7% male and 68.3% female. This trend of a higher female representation continues among upperclassmen, where the proportion of females rises to 70.7% out of 3,412 students. Such statistics highlight an ongoing trend in higher education, where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts, reflecting broader societal shifts towards gender equity in academic pursuits.
Transfer students account for 1,020 individuals, again showing a predominance of females at 71.3%. Graduate students, numbering 1,039, present a slightly more balanced gender ratio at 34.6% male and 65.4% female. This data indicates that while women are leading in undergraduate numbers, men retain a more competitive presence at the graduate level.
Examining the ethnic makeup of these cohorts reveals a considerable diversity, especially among the freshmen, where the representation of White students is significant. However, detailed statistics on the ethnic subcategories remain sparse, highlighting an area for future data collection. The increasing number of Hispanic and Asian students in universities across the U.S. suggests a growing multicultural environment, which is essential for fostering inclusivity and diverse perspectives in academic discourse.
Overall, Fayetteville State University’s demographics in 2023 reflect broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of diversity and gender representation in shaping future leaders and thinkers. This data not only serves as a snapshot of the current student body but also as a benchmark for future growth and development within the university.
Age Composition of Students at Fayetteville State University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Fayetteville State University reveals a predominantly younger demographic, with a significant number of students under the age of 24. The largest segment is found in the 18-19 age group, where there are 354 male undergraduates and an impressive 800 female undergraduates, making up approximately 54.6% of the total student population. This trend continues into the 20-21 age range, where male and female undergraduates still dominate, highlighting the university's appeal to traditional college-age students.
Interestingly, as we look at slightly older age groups, such as 22-24 and 25-29, the number of graduate students starts to increase, particularly among females. This could indicate a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, as evidenced by the 77 females aged 22-24 and 123 aged 25-29, both of which suggest a commitment to further education.
Moreover, the data shows a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases, with the 50-64 age group comprising only about 4.4% of the total student population. This pattern is consistent with national trends, where younger individuals are more likely to pursue higher education, while older adults often engage in lifelong learning or professional development rather than traditional degree programs.
In conclusion, Fayetteville State University's student body is predominantly young, with a notable increase in female representation in both undergraduate and graduate programs. This reflects broader societal trends in education, particularly the increasing enrollment of women in higher education.
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.
79 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
18 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville State University has experienced notable fluctuations in its international student population over the years. The data indicates that the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally shown an upward trend, peaking at 0.78% in 2014. However, this figure has varied significantly, with some years witnessing a sharp decline in international enrollment. For instance, the percentage dropped to 0.02% in 2006 and reached its lowest point of 0.18% in 2016. This inconsistency may reflect broader trends in international student mobility, influenced by factors such as visa policies and global events.
In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students has shown a more consistent increase, particularly notable from 2018 to 2023, when the percentage rose from 1.08% to 2.12%. The growth in graduate enrollment may suggest that Fayetteville State University is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international students pursuing advanced degrees, possibly due to its expanding academic programs and support services tailored for international students.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also likely played a role in these trends, affecting global mobility and enrollment patterns in 2020 and 2021. As universities worldwide adapt to post-pandemic realities, it will be interesting to observe how Fayetteville State University continues to engage with the international student community and whether it can sustain or further enhance the growth of its international graduate student population in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$19,802
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,353
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,353
- Room and board
- $11,449
- Graduate tuition
- $17,856
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -49% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 46%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$199M
Expenses$164M
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 · Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 75 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 35 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 35 |
| Basketball | 13 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 8 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 80 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 43 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 43 |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 100 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 42 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 42 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 50.7 mi
U.S. News #73
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 58.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 64.1 mi
U.S. News #8
-
Elon UniversityElon · 79.1 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 82.3 mi
U.S. News #219
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 85.0 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 85.9 mi
U.S. News #208
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 93.4 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 105.1 mi
U.S. News #169
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Fayetteville State University:
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Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in law, business, and medicine.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a ranking of 22, this university is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its small class sizes and emphasis on liberal arts education.
-
University of North Carolina Wilmington - This university ranks 201 and is recognized for its strong programs in marine biology and business.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Also known as Virginia Tech, this university ranks 47th and is known for its engineering and technology programs.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
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 Data at Fayetteville State University
The crime data from Fayetteville State University over the past decade presents a fluctuating picture of campus safety. Notably, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students shows a marked decline from 16.27 in 2013 to a low of 4.94 in 2021. This significant drop may suggest successful initiatives in crime prevention and a growing awareness of safety among the university community. However, the rise in the rates in subsequent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, raises concerns about the current safety climate on campus.
In examining the specific types of offenses, arrests related to gun possession have been a recurrent issue, reflecting broader societal trends concerning gun violence. The university's management must continue to address these incidents with robust policies and support systems for students. Additionally, drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses remain pertinent issues that require targeted interventions to foster a healthy campus environment.
Moreover, the data indicates that while the overall crime rates have decreased significantly in certain years, they still have the potential to rise quickly, necessitating ongoing vigilance and proactive measures from both university authorities and students. It is essential to maintain a focus on community-building and peer support to encourage reporting and intervention in the face of crime.
In conclusion, while Fayetteville State University has made strides in improving campus safety, the recent uptick in crime rates signals that continued efforts are necessary to ensure a secure educational environment. For more insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Fayetteville State University include Blueface (Rapper and professional boxer), Darrell Armstrong (Former NBA player and assistant coach) and Junkyard Dog (Professional wrestler known as Junkyard Dog).
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Blueface 1997–
Rapper and professional boxer
-
Darrell Armstrong 1968–
Former NBA player and assistant coach
-
Junkyard Dog 1952–1998
Professional wrestler known as Junkyard Dog
-
Affion Crockett 1974–
Comedian and actor
-
Marvin W. Lucas 1941–
Former North Carolina House Democratic member
-
Brasheedah Elohim 1980–
American-Israeli basketball and tennis player
-
Michele S. Jones 1963–
First female Command Sergeant Major of the Army Reserve
-
Frances Jackson
Democratic member of the North Carolina House
-
Andre Bowden 1968–
Former Arena Football League player
More alumni (1, by field)
Sports
-
Chris Armstrong 1967–
Former Canadian Football League receiver
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
Recent News at Fayetteville State University
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
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Fayetteville State University announced in late October 2025 that it is integrating AI-powered virtual simulation and virtual reality platforms into its curriculum to advance social work education.
Source: markets.financialcontent.com -
Fayetteville State University and Wake Technical Community College signed the Bronco Benefit partnership agreement, guaranteeing seamless transfer admissions and waiving application fees for qualified students.
Source: bizfayetteville.com
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.