Fayetteville State University

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Fayetteville State University

  • Overview & Academics

    Fayetteville State University (FSU) is a public, comprehensive historically Black university located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Established in 1867, FSU is part of the University of North Carolina System and offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. FSU upholds a commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and community engagement. Academic offerings span across liberal arts, business, education, health sciences, and the sciences, providing both traditional and online learning formats.

    • Bachelor’s, master’s, post-baccalaureate certificates, and doctoral degrees
    • Signature programs in nursing, criminal justice, social work, business administration, and education
    • Strong online degree completion offerings and flexible evening classes
  • Admissions

    Admissions at FSU are considered moderately selective, welcoming a diverse student body with a strong focus on access and opportunity. Prospective students must submit an application, official transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (test-optional for many programs), and additional materials for specific majors.

    • Application: UNC System application or Common App
    • Required materials: high school diploma (or equivalent), transcripts, standardized test scores (optional for most), letters of recommendation and essays for certain programs
    • Consideration for transfer, adult, military, and international students
  • Cost

    FSU is recognized as one of North Carolina’s most affordable universities, making education accessible for students from varied backgrounds.

    • In-state tuition (2023-2024): Approx. $5,000 per year
    • Out-of-state tuition (2023-2024): Approx. $16,900 per year
    • Additional fees for housing, meals, books, and specific courses
    • Robust financial aid offerings, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and military tuition assistance
  • Student Population

    FSU serves approximately 6,500 students, with a diverse population drawn from across North Carolina and beyond.

    • Undergraduate: ~5,200
    • Graduate/professional: ~1,300
    • Rich diversity: Predominantly African American, with increasing Hispanic/Latinx, white, and international student representation
    • Significant enrollment of military-affiliated students
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Classified as a Historically Black University/College (HBCU)
    • Consistently ranked among top public HBCUs in the US
    • Recognized for value, social mobility, and military-friendliness
    • Highly ranked regionally for social work, nursing, criminal justice, and business
  • Campus & Culture

    FSU’s 156-acre campus features a blend of historic and modern facilities, including the iconic Seabrook Auditorium, a new Science and Technology complex, on-campus housing, recreational facilities, and vibrant gathering spaces. The campus is located minutes from downtown Fayetteville, adjacent to Fort Liberty military base, providing a unique blend of academic, social, and cultural activities.

  • Athletics & Traditions

    • NCAA Division II, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
    • Men’s and women’s basketball, football, volleyball, bowling, cross country, track & field
    • Signature traditions: Homecoming, Bronco Pride Week, Founder’s Day, and the annual CIAA basketball tournament
    • Mascot: The Bronco
    • Strong legacy in women’s bowling and men’s basketball
  • Mission

    FSU’s mission is to provide a quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and service to the broader community, with a focus on preparing graduates for a dynamic global society.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    FSU is led by a Chancellor and governed by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors. The university is actively investing in new academic programs, infrastructure improvements, expanded online learning, and partnerships with military and local industries. Recent priorities include strengthening STEM offerings, supporting student success, and expanding research initiatives.

  • Programs

    • College of Humanities and Social Sciences
    • Broadwell College of Business & Economics (AACSB accredited)
    • School of Education (CAEP accredited)
    • College of Health, Science & Technology
    • Popular programs: Business administration, criminal justice, social work, psychology, computer science, nursing, education leadership, and public administration (MPA)
  • Campus Life

    FSU’s campus life is active and engaging, with a vibrant mix of cultural, social, and academic activities.

    • On-campus housing and dining options
    • Performing arts, leadership development, and multicultural educational programs
    • Health, wellness, and recreational opportunities
  • Student Organizations

    More than 100 student organizations cater to diverse interests including:

    • Greek life (NPHC fraternities and sororities)
    • Honor societies
    • Academic and professional clubs
    • Community service groups and special interest organizations
  • Admission Stats

    • Acceptance rate: ~77%
    • Average admitted freshman GPA: 3.2
    • SAT (middle 50%): 890–1040
    • ACT (middle 50%): 18–21
    • Application deadline: Rolling admission, priority March 1