Youngstown State University

Youngstown, OH 44555-0001 — Public

Value Score: 70/100 | ROI Score: -7 | Affordability Score: 90/100

Tuition (In-State): $11,113 | Out-of-State: $11,473

Acceptance Rate: 84.5% | Graduation Rate: 51.7% | Retention Rate: 75.7%

Median Earnings (10yr): $41,544 | Median Debt: $24,000

SAT Average: 1120 | ACT Midpoint: 21

Student Body Size: 7,961 (medium)

Pell Grant Recipients: 33.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 38.5%

Average Faculty Salary: $8,731/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Youngstown State University is $11,113 per year, which is near the national average for public institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $11,473/year — a premium of $360 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $1,440 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $44,452 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Youngstown State University:

Families earning $0–$30,000: $9,328/year
Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $9,421/year
Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $13,369/year
Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $16,249/year
Families earning $110,000+: $18,235/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $1,785/year, paying just 84% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Youngstown State University has an acceptance rate of 84.5%, placing it in the Less Selective (70–85%) category. This means roughly 2,357 students apply each year.

Youngstown State University accepts the majority of applicants, making it an accessible option for students across a range of academic backgrounds.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1120, 6% above the national average. This is within the mid-range nationally.

The ACT midpoint is 21, near the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

51.7% of students at Youngstown State University complete their degree, 17% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.

First-year retention rate: 75.7% (7% below the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of Youngstown State University earn a median salary of $41,544 ten years after enrollment, near the national average. This represents a $6,544/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $196,320 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $24,000, 12% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $260/month, with a total repayment of $31,200 (including $7,200 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.58x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Youngstown State University pays for itself in approximately 7 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

33.8% of students at Youngstown State University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), near the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.

38.5% of students take federal loans, 18% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $8,731/month, near the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Youngstown State University enrolls 7,961 undergraduate students. As a large institution, students have access to a wide range of programs, research opportunities, and campus activities.

Diversity Index: 56/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 66%, Hispanic 5%, Black 8%, Asian 2%.

Youngstown State University: Medium-Sized Public Institution with Good Affordability

Affordable Education, Regional Impact: Youngstown State University's Value Proposition
From Penguins to Professionals: YSU's Path to Career Success
Experience the Heart of Ohio: A Community-Focused College Journey at YSU

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Youngstown State University receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

Academics: D
Value: F
Outcomes: C
Affordability: C+

College Analysis

Youngstown State University is a Public institution in Youngstown, OH with approximately 7,961 students. Academics: Youngstown State University has a graduation rate of 51.66%, slightly below the national average for public universities. Value: The university offers a relatively affordable in-state tuition of $11,113, with a high affordability score of 90. Outcomes: Graduates earn a median salary of $41,544 after 10 years, which is below the national average for public universities.

The Verdict: Is Youngstown State University Worth It?

Youngstown State University presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state tuition of $11,113 and a median 10-year earnings of $41,544, the immediate financial picture appears modest. The median debt of $24,000, when compared to the median earnings, suggests a debt-to-income ratio that requires careful financial management post-graduation. The ROI score of -7 indicates that, on average, graduates do not see a significant financial return on their investment within a typical timeframe, especially when considering the cost of living and potential for higher earnings elsewhere. However, the low in-state tuition and the significantly lower cost of living in Youngstown can make YSU a more accessible option for many students. For those who remain in the region and secure employment in growing sectors like healthcare or advanced manufacturing, the debt can be manageable. The key to value at YSU lies in choosing majors with strong local demand and leveraging the university's career services for job placement. It's not a guaranteed high-return investment based on median figures alone, but for students prioritizing affordability and regional employment, it can be a sensible choice. It's a hidden gem for the budget-conscious student focused on specific, in-demand local careers.

Return on Investment

While the degree is affordable, the lower median salary after 10 years suggests that the return on investment may not be as high as at more selective institutions.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Youngstown State University: $24,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $273/month. Total repaid: $32,760 ($8,760 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 2.1 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $32,760.

Strengths

Affordable tuition
High graduation rate
Good location in Ohio

Weaknesses

Lower median salary after graduation
Predominantly white student body
Higher student debt

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1120. ACT Midpoint: 21. Retention Rate: 75.7%.

Youngstown State University boasts a robust academic environment with particular strengths in its STEM fields, business, and education programs. The College of STEM is a significant draw, offering popular majors like Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science, often with strong ties to regional industries for internships and co-op opportunities. The Williamson College of Business Administration is also highly regarded, providing practical, career-focused education. YSU's Beeghly College of Education is another cornerstone, preparing educators for roles in local and state school districts. Research opportunities are available for undergraduates, particularly within the STEM disciplines, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the university's commitment to accessible education suggests a faculty dedicated to teaching and student mentorship. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly stated, is generally conducive to personalized attention given the university's size. YSU offers an Honors College, providing a more challenging academic path with smaller class sizes, enriched coursework, and dedicated advising for high-achieving students. Study abroad programs are available, offering students the chance to broaden their horizons academically and culturally. Academic support is a priority, with resources like the Center for Teaching and Learning offering tutoring, writing assistance, and academic coaching to help students succeed across all disciplines.

Financial Aid Guide for Youngstown State University

Pell Grant recipients: 33.8%. Students taking federal loans: 38.5%.

Navigating financial aid at Youngstown State University is a practical endeavor, with a strong emphasis on making education accessible. YSU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen, often tied to GPA and ACT/SAT scores (though these are not provided, high school performance is key). These can range from partial tuition waivers to full-ride scholarships for exceptional candidates. Need-based aid, distributed through federal and state grants like the Pell Grant (though the rate is not specified, it's a significant source for eligible students), is crucial. YSU also participates in the Federal Direct Loan program, providing students with access to low-interest loans. Work-study opportunities are available, allowing students to earn money through part-time campus jobs. For a student with an in-state tuition of $11,113, a typical aid package might include a combination of grants, scholarships, and potentially federal loans. For families with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) below $50,000, a significant portion of tuition could be covered by grants and scholarships. For those with higher incomes, merit scholarships become more critical. Scholarship applications are often integrated with the admissions process, but students should also actively seek out departmental scholarships and external opportunities. Negotiating financial aid at YSU is generally less common than at highly selective private institutions; the focus is more on clearly defined merit and need-based criteria. However, if there are significant changes in financial circumstances, contacting the financial aid office with documentation is always advisable.

Hidden Costs at Youngstown State University

Student Activity Fee: A mandatory fee of approximately $100-$150 per semester supports student organizations, events, and campus programming.
Technology Fee: Typically around $100-$200 per semester, this fee contributes to the university's technology infrastructure, including computer labs and Wi-Fi.
Parking Permit: For students who drive to campus, annual parking permits can range from $100 to $250 depending on the lot location.
Textbooks and Supplies: Budget an average of $800-$1,200 per academic year for required course materials.
Meal Plans: While not mandatory for all students, on-campus meal plans can range from $2,000 to $4,000 per academic year, depending on the chosen plan.
Health Insurance: If not covered by a parent's plan, YSU offers a student health insurance plan that can cost upwards of $1,500-$2,000 annually.
Transportation: For students living off-campus or commuting, local bus passes or personal vehicle expenses can add $50-$200 per month.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Youngstown State University (YSU) graduates enter a diverse job market, with many finding opportunities within the Mahoning Valley and surrounding regions. Major employers that frequently recruit from YSU include Mercy Health (healthcare), The J.M. Smucker Company (food production), and various manufacturing firms like Vallourec Star and Extruders Inc. Alumni tend to cluster in sectors such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, education, and technology. While specific graduate school placement rates are not readily available, YSU offers programs that can prepare students for further study in fields like engineering, business, and education. Notable alumni include former NFL coach Lou Holtz and actor Ed O'Neill, showcasing a range of career paths. YSU's career services department offers resume assistance, interview preparation, and job fairs, aiming to connect students with employers. The university also emphasizes internship pipelines, with many programs requiring or strongly encouraging practical experience. For instance, the Williamson College of Business Administration has strong ties with local businesses for internships. Geographic hiring patterns show a significant concentration of alumni in Ohio, particularly in Northeast Ohio, but also extending into Pennsylvania and other Midwestern states, reflecting the regional economic landscape. The university's focus on applied learning and workforce development aims to position graduates for immediate employment in demand-driven fields.

Campus Life & Culture at Youngstown State University

Youngstown State University serves a predominantly in-state student body, with a strong representation from the Mahoning Valley and surrounding Northeast Ohio counties. The university is committed to diversity and inclusion, attracting students from various backgrounds. Students who thrive at YSU are often self-motivated, community-oriented individuals who appreciate a supportive learning environment and the opportunity to engage directly with faculty and local industries.

Youngstown State University (YSU) offers a vibrant campus life deeply rooted in the Mahoning Valley community. With a student body of just under 8,000, YSU provides a more intimate college experience than larger universities, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. The campus itself is a blend of historic and modern architecture, centered around the iconic Kilcawley Center, which serves as the student union and a hub for social activity, dining, and student organization meetings. You'll find over 150 student organizations, ranging from academic clubs and cultural groups to recreational and service-oriented organizations, ensuring there's a niche for everyone. The university's commitment to student engagement is evident in its numerous events, concerts, and cultural festivals held throughout the year. For those seeking a more structured social life, YSU has a presence of fraternities and sororities, contributing to the campus's social fabric. Athletics are a significant part of the YSU experience, with the Penguins competing in NCAA Division I, particularly known for their strong football program, which draws considerable student and community support to Stambaugh Stadium. Housing options are available on campus, primarily in the University Courtyard Apartments and Lyden House, offering a convenient way to stay connected to campus life. Many students also live in the surrounding neighborhoods, which offer a mix of affordable housing options and a genuine Youngstown feel. The general vibe at YSU is one of accessibility and community focus, where students are encouraged to get involved, support each other, and make the most of their college years in a supportive, urban environment.

Campus Highlights

The Beeghly Center for Performing Arts, hosting a variety of cultural events and student performances.
The Ward Beecher Planetarium, offering educational and entertaining shows about space.
Stambaugh Stadium, home to the highly spirited YSU Penguins football team.
The Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor, providing a unique look at the region's industrial past.
Kilcawley Center, the bustling student union and central hub for campus life.
The Maag Library, a key academic resource with extensive collections and study spaces.
The extensive network of walking and biking trails surrounding the campus, connecting to the city's green spaces.

Location & Regional Advantages

Youngstown State University's location in Youngstown, Ohio, offers a unique set of advantages and challenges. The local job market is historically tied to manufacturing, but is undergoing a transition towards advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Proximity to larger industrial hubs like Pittsburgh, PA (about an hour away) and Cleveland, OH (about an hour and a half away) provides access to a broader range of employment opportunities and potential internship sites. The cost of living in Youngstown is significantly lower than in major metropolitan areas, making it an attractive option for students seeking affordability. This lower cost of living can also extend the reach of a graduate's starting salary. Quality of life in Youngstown is characterized by a strong sense of community and a developing arts and culture scene, though it may not offer the same level of amenities as larger cities. The weather is typical of the Midwest, with four distinct seasons, including cold winters. Safety is a concern in any urban environment, and while YSU has its own campus safety measures, students should be aware of their surroundings. The geographic advantage lies in YSU's ability to serve as a regional anchor, providing skilled graduates to local industries while offering a more affordable educational experience and living environment compared to more expensive urban universities.

How to Get Into Youngstown State University

Applying to Youngstown State University is a straightforward process, given its accessible admission rate of 84.5%. YSU does not appear to offer Early Decision or Early Action, so focus on meeting the regular application deadlines, typically in the late spring or early summer. The admissions office values a solid academic record, demonstrated by your GPA and coursework. While specific GPA ranges aren't published, a strong high school performance will significantly improve your chances. Since SAT/ACT scores are not provided, the emphasis is likely placed on your overall academic profile and potentially a personal essay. The essay is an opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and why YSU is the right fit for you; focus on your aspirations and how YSU's programs align with them. Demonstrated interest isn't heavily emphasized, but attending virtual or in-person campus tours, engaging with admissions counselors, and following YSU on social media can subtly signal your commitment. The timeline should involve submitting your application and all supporting documents (transcripts, essay) well before the final deadline to ensure timely review and aid consideration.

How Youngstown State University Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: University of Akron, Kent State University, Cleveland State University, Ohio University

Advantages

Significantly lower cost of living in Youngstown compared to larger Ohio cities where peers are located.
Stronger ties to the specific advanced manufacturing and healthcare sectors prevalent in the Mahoning Valley.
More personalized attention potentially due to smaller class sizes in certain programs compared to larger state universities.

Disadvantages

Lower median graduate earnings compared to some peers.
Less national brand recognition, potentially impacting job searches outside the immediate region.
Lower graduation rate suggests potential challenges with student retention or program completion.

Best For

Prospective students interested in highly specialized programs or those seeking a more diverse student body may want to consider other options.
Students looking for a higher median salary after graduation might explore more selective institutions.

Avoid If

Students seeking a highly selective institution with a higher median salary after graduation should avoid Youngstown State University.
Prospective students looking for a more diverse student body with a higher percentage of Asian students should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Youngstown State University

How much does it cost to attend Youngstown State University?

In-state tuition at Youngstown State University is $11,113 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $11,473 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $24,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Youngstown State University?

Youngstown State University has an acceptance rate of 84.5%.

What is the graduation rate at Youngstown State University?

Youngstown State University has a graduation rate of 51.7%.

How much do Youngstown State University graduates earn?

The median earnings for Youngstown State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $41,544. With median debt of $24,000, graduates earn roughly 1.7x their debt level annually.

How big is Youngstown State University?

Youngstown State University has approximately 7,961 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Youngstown, OH and is a Public institution.

Is Youngstown State University worth the cost?

Youngstown State University has an ROI score of -7 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $11,113 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $41,544, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Youngstown State University located?

Youngstown State University is located in Youngstown, OH. It is a Public institution with approximately 7,961 students.

How much student debt do Youngstown State University graduates have?

The median student debt for Youngstown State University graduates is $24,000. With median earnings of $41,544 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 58%.

Is Youngstown State University a good college?

Youngstown State University has a graduation rate of 51.7% and median post-graduation earnings of $41,544. The student body is predominantly white, with a low percentage of Asian students.

How does Youngstown State University compare to similar colleges?

The university has a high admission rate, indicating it may be more accessible compared to some peer institutions. Compared to peer institutions, Youngstown State University offers a more affordable tuition and a high graduation rate, but graduates earn lower median salaries.

What career prospects do Youngstown State University graduates have?

Graduates of Youngstown State University are well-prepared for careers in the local manufacturing and healthcare industries.

What should prospective students know about Youngstown State University?

Youngstown State University is well-positioned in the Ohio market, offering a balance of affordability and academic quality.

What makes Youngstown State University stand out?

Median student debt is $24,000, which is average for public universities.

What are the pros and cons of attending Youngstown State University?

The university's location in Youngstown, Ohio, may offer unique cultural and economic experiences.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.