Shawnee State University
Out-of-state tuition
$16,032
In-state $9,448
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,994
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
32.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.1%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Shawnee State University (SSU), located in Portsmouth, Ohio, is a public university that offers a unique blend of academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1986, SSU has grown to accommodate a diverse student body and provides a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is known for its commitment to student success, which is reflected in its small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members. The faculty at SSU comprises experienced educators and professionals who are dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment. This strong faculty-student relationship enhances the learning experience and equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen fields.
The university also prides itself on its vibrant campus culture and student life. With numerous student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities, Shawnee State encourages students to engage both academically and socially. The campus is home to various facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, which support a well-rounded educational experience. SSU's emphasis on community involvement enables students to apply their skills in real-world settings, contributing positively to the local area. Additionally, Shawnee State's focus on health sciences, engineering, and digital media programs has made it a popular choice for students looking to enter these high-demand fields. This dedication to quality education and community service continues to enhance the university's reputation and attract students from diverse backgrounds.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Shawnee State University
Shawnee State University, a public institution, has exhibited notable trends in several critical areas over recent years. One of the most striking observations is the significant increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Between 2014 and 2023, in-state tuition rose from $7,177 to $9,341, marking an increase of approximately 30%. In contrast, out-of-state tuition escalated from $12,291 to $15,686, reflecting a 28% rise. This upward trend in tuition costs is reflective of the broader national concern regarding college affordability, which has been a hot topic in recent years.
Moreover, the graduation rates have shown a remarkable improvement, particularly for students graduating on time. The on-time graduation rate surged from 10.5% in 2013 to 26.6% in 2023, indicating a significant enhancement in student success and retention strategies at the university. This increase in graduation rates could be attributed to improved academic support services, faculty engagement, and an overall commitment to student achievement.
Retention rates have also experienced fluctuations but generally show a positive trend, peaking at about 78.5% in 2020 before slightly declining to 65.9% in 2023. A higher retention rate typically correlates with a supportive learning environment and student satisfaction.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 14 to 19 students per faculty member in recent years. A favorable student-to-faculty ratio is crucial for personalized education and can significantly impact student experiences and outcomes.
In summary, while Shawnee State University has seen increased tuition costs, it has concurrently made strides in boosting graduation rates and maintaining a supportive educational environment, emphasizing the university's commitment to student success amidst financial challenges.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Cincinnati, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Eric Braun (President)
- Phone
- 7403543205
- City
- Portsmouth, Ohio
- Address
- 940 Second Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 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
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Mathematics, General · Master's32 (13% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's24 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's15 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's9 (0% international)
- Rhetoric and Composition · Master's5 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, Other · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Statistics at Shawnee State University
The graduate statistics from Shawnee State University for the year 2023 reveal intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields. Notably, the health and medical administrative services program stands out with 48 bachelor's degrees conferred, showcasing the university's strong emphasis on health-related studies. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in administrative roles, as the industry continues to expand in response to an aging population and increasing health concerns.
In contrast, the biological sciences program awarded 31 bachelor's degrees, which, while significant, reflects a relatively lower output compared to health-related programs. Interestingly, the mathematics program had no bachelor's degrees awarded but produced 29 master's degrees, indicating a potential trend where advanced studies in mathematics may be more favorable among graduates seeking specialized knowledge.
The nursing program also demonstrated a robust output, with 24 bachelor's degrees awarded, alongside a notable international presence, as indicated by the single international graduate. This highlights Shawnee's appeal to international students in health-related fields, which is vital for fostering a diverse academic environment.
On the other hand, certain artistic disciplines, such as the performing arts, did not produce any graduates, which may point to challenges in these programs or a shift in student interest towards more technical or health-oriented fields. This trend reflects broader national patterns where students increasingly opt for degrees that promise better job security and career prospects.
Overall, the data indicates a clear preference among students for programs aligned with health and technical disciplines, mirroring current labor market trends that prioritize skill sets in these areas. This shift could have implications for curriculum development and resource allocation at the university moving forward.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $54,243 | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $42,486 | ||||
| Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other. | $42,486 | ||||
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $36,592 | ||||
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $36,592 | ||||
| Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist. | $61,910 | ||||
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $61,910 | ||||
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | ||||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $63,006 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $69,893-$84,986 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,857 | ||||
| Accounting. | $43,501 | ||||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | $36,487 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $36,487 | ||||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $33,630 | ||||
| Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. | $33,630 | ||||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electromechanical/Electromechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | ||||
| Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology/Technician. | $66,105 | ||||
| Computer Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | ||||
| CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $36,891 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $36,891 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $29,905 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $21,795 | ||||
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | $21,795 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhetoric and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | - |
Students
3,231 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 72.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,582
- First-year undergraduates 513
- Graduate students 237
- Transfers and others 899
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,994)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Shawnee State University in 2023
The student demographics at Shawnee State University for the year 2023 present a compelling picture of the institution's diversity and gender distribution among its student body. Notably, the undergraduate newcomers, comprising 640 students, exhibit a gender distribution where 42.7% are male and 57.3% are female. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, with a similar gender ratio, indicating a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment at the undergraduate level.
In contrast, the graduate student population, totaling 206 individuals, shows a significant gender imbalance with only 35% male representation compared to 65% female. This disparity may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees, possibly influenced by ongoing societal shifts towards gender equality in education and the workforce.
Additionally, the representation of various ethnic groups among these students reveals important insights into the university's inclusivity. For instance, while detailed breakdowns are not fully provided, the presence of different ethnic minorities highlights the university's commitment to serving a diverse student population.
Overall, these figures underscore the importance of supporting all student groups, particularly in fostering an inclusive environment that encourages the participation of underrepresented populations in higher education. As universities like Shawnee State continue to evolve, understanding and addressing the needs of their diverse student body will be vital for ongoing success and community engagement.
Age Composition of Students at Shawnee State University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Shawnee State University reveals interesting trends about the demographic makeup of the student body. A significant proportion of undergraduates is represented by those aged 18-19, with 36.2% of the total female students and 39.6% of the total male students falling within this age group. This highlights the university's appeal to traditional college-aged individuals, which is consistent with national trends indicating that many students enter higher education directly after high school.
As we move into the 20-21 age range, the number of male undergraduates decreases slightly, while the female undergraduates remain relatively stable. This trend may suggest that younger females are increasingly pursuing higher education. Additionally, the 22-24 age group shows a notable presence of graduate students, particularly among males, indicating that older students are returning to academic pursuits.
It's worth noting the decline in student numbers in the older age brackets, particularly those aged 30-34 and beyond. This could reflect broader societal trends where non-traditional students face challenges such as balancing work and family commitments alongside their studies.
The data also shows that the number of male students is consistently lower than that of female students across most age categories, especially in the younger demographics. This aligns with national statistics indicating that female enrollment in higher education has surpassed that of males in recent years, a trend that has sparked discussions about educational equity.
Overall, Shawnee State University's age composition illustrates a diverse student body with a predominance of traditional students, while also highlighting the ongoing need to support non-traditional students as they navigate their educational journeys.
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.
59 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
5 in 2025 · 13.8% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Shawnee State University
The data regarding international student enrollment at Shawnee State University reveals interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2022, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs has seen fluctuations. Notably, the peak was observed in 2022, where international students comprised approximately 3.04% of the total undergraduate population, a significant increase compared to previous years.
In contrast, the representation of international students in graduate programs has remained relatively low, with the highest percentage recorded in 2015 at 11.28%. The data indicates that while the number of graduate students has increased, the proportion of international students has not kept pace, particularly evident in the years following 2015. This trend may reflect broader issues in the higher education landscape, such as shifting immigration policies and global events that influence student mobility.
The overall enrollment numbers suggest that Shawnee State University has been attracting a modest but steady influx of international students, particularly at the undergraduate level. However, the decline in the percentage of international graduate students from 2015 onwards raises questions about the university's appeal and support for graduate-level international candidates.
This data mirrors national trends in U.S. higher education, where institutions have been grappling with attracting and retaining international students due to various geopolitical and economic factors. As universities strive to enhance their global presence, it will be essential for Shawnee State University to develop strategies to bolster its appeal to international graduate students while maintaining support for undergraduate enrollment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$28,534
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,032
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,448
- Room and board
- $12,502
- Graduate tuition
- $21,221
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$61.8M
Expenses$57.2M
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 NAIA · River States
River States: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 30 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 30 | 20 |
| Soccer | 22 | 20 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 9 |
| Swimming | 15 | 10 |
| Bowling | 13 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 11 | 8 |
| Tennis | 9 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 21 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 24 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 23 | 17 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Cross Country | 19 | 11 |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Bowling | 14 | 12 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Swimming | 10 | 11 |
| Tennis | 12 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 27 | 21 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 23 | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 23 | 11 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Cross Country | 20 | 10 |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Bowling | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Swimming | 11 | 9 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 63.2 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Xavier UniversityCincinnati · 84.7 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati · 86.3 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 87.7 mi
U.S. News #44
-
University of DaytonDayton · 94.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of KentuckyLexington · 94.8 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 96.0 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 106.7 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 107.6 mi
U.S. News #133
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Shawnee State University:
-
Ohio University-Main Campus - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - With a ranking of 142, this comprehensive university is known for its strong focus on research and innovation.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - A highly regarded institution, ranked 43 in the nation, known for its extensive academic offerings and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Dayton - This comprehensive university ranks 133 and is recognized for its commitment to experiential learning and community service.
-
University of Kentucky - Ranked 159, this university is known for its strong programs in various fields, including business, education, and health.
-
Denison University - A top liberal arts college ranked 39, it emphasizes a strong academic environment and personal development.
-
Berea College - With a ranking of 30, this liberal arts college is known for its unique tuition-free model and commitment to serving students from low-income backgrounds.
-
Miami University-Oxford - This comprehensive university ranks 133 and offers a well-rounded education with a focus on liberal arts.
-
Centre College - A liberal arts college ranked 51, it is known for its strong academic programs and engaging campus community.
-
Earlham College - Ranked 100, this liberal arts college is recognized for its strong commitment to social justice and community engagement.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and environments for students 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Shawnee State University
The campus crime statistics at Shawnee State University over the past decade present a compelling narrative about safety and security on campus. Notably, there has been a significant decline in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, which dropped from 9.37 in 2013 to just 1.21 in 2021. This drastic reduction suggests a successful implementation of safety measures and a growing awareness among students regarding personal safety.
The data reveals that incidents of gun arrests and domestic violence have fluctuated, but overall, the rates have decreased markedly in recent years. For instance, although there were multiple gun-related arrests in 2021, the overall rate of criminal activity was at its lowest since the data collection began. This decline can be attributed to increased community engagement initiatives and tighter security protocols that universities across the country have adopted in response to rising concerns about campus safety.
Furthermore, the years 2016 to 2019 show a notable increase in drug and alcohol-related offenses, which could echo national trends of substance abuse during that period. However, the sharp drop in incidents from 2020 onwards indicates a potential shift in student behavior or an improvement in enforcement and prevention programs.
In light of recent national discussions around campus safety, the trends at Shawnee State University highlight both the challenges and achievements in maintaining a secure educational environment. Continuous monitoring and responsive strategies will be essential in ensuring that these positive trends are sustained in the future. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.