PublicUrbanHBCUNorfolk State University
Norfolk State; NSU
Norfolk, Virginia 23504-8000
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for psychology — excellent value
Norfolk State University is a public institution in Norfolk with particular strength in psychology and business. With an average SAT of 980, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 5.5K undergraduates with a 18:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
33% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $44,666 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,973.
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History The institution was founded on September 18, 1935, as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University.
- •Eighty-five students attended the first classes held in 1935.
- •Scott as director in 1938, and served as provost, 1963–1969, and the first president 1969–1975.
- •In 1942, the school became independent of VUU and was named Norfolk Polytechnic College.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 980
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
42.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$17,277
Programs (48)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
72%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
41
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from VA state average + city premium