Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
A Proud Legacy. A Bold Future. Founded in 1892, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is a public historically Black university that blends tradition, innovation, and a strong commitment to community uplift. Here, you don’t just join a university—you become part of the Ram family—the Ramily.
Our students say: “When you have a place that feels like home and people who invest in your success, that’s what sets us apart.”
You will have opportunities to immerse yourself in the thrill of the big games, vibrant student life with over 100 clubs, Greek organizations, and the excitement of lifelong friendships. We’re more than just a place to study, we’re home.
You will find a perfect combination for your college experience. Build the skills you need for the career you want, while you make friends and memories. Be yourself. Follow your passion. Find your people.
Get to know Winston-Salem State University
College Highlights
At WSSU, learning is a dynamic and collaborative experience. Students engage deeply with their disciplines through service-learning, undergraduate research, and community-based projects, using real-world applications to ensure that learning stays relevant and impactful.
Many programs incorporate experiential components, such as internships, clinical placements, and capstone projects that connect students with local organizations and industry partners. Whether studying education, business, health sciences, or the arts, WSSU students are challenged to think critically and act purposefully.
SET UP FOR SUCCESS
The First-Year Experience at WSSU supports new students by fostering a strong community and laying the foundation for academic and personal success. Through engaging programs, students develop critical thinking skills, build meaningful relationships, and grow as independent learners.
The First-Year Experience will help you:
- Ease the Transition: Receive support as you adjust to college life.
- Foster Connections: Build relationships with peers, faculty, and staff.
- Promote Growth: Develop cultural awareness, self-discovery, and resilience.
FYE Highlights:
- Ramdition: New student orientation
- Alumni Series Workshops: Success tips from WSSU graduates
- Legacy Leader Mentor Groups: Peer mentorship
- In Between the Sheets Reading Series: Thought-provoking book discussions
From day one, you’ll gain access to campus resources, support services, and learning opportunities that help them thrive academically and beyond.
ENROLLMENT BY ETHNICITY
Non-U.S. Citizen: 1%
Hispanic/Latine: 5%
Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 80%
White, non-Hispanic: 8%
Native/Indigenous American or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic: 0%
Asian, non-Hispanic: 1%
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic: 0%
Two or more races, non-Hispanic: 4%
Race and/or ethnicity unknown: 1%
WSSU’s faculty are dedicated mentors who put student success at the center of their teaching. With small class sizes and a commitment to inclusive pedagogy, professors provide personal attention while preparing students for graduate study and professional achievement.
The university offers more than 40 undergraduate degree programs across its College of Arts, Sciences, Business and Education, and the School of Health Sciences. Curricula are designed to support both academic rigor and personal development, encouraging students to take intellectual risks and explore interdisciplinary interests.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
At WSSU, research, scholarship, and creative activity are essential parts of the student experience. Students engage in high-impact projects that prepare them to become future leaders in science, social science, health, and the arts.
Each year, WSSU celebrates these accomplishments during Scholarship Week—a dynamic, week-long event that showcases student excellence and innovation. Scholarship Week features interactive workshops, student panels, pop-up exhibits, an art exhibition, and classroom showcases. This inspiring series highlights the brilliance, creativity, and groundbreaking research of the talented students within the Ram community.
Rooted in the values of equity and empowerment, WSSU fosters a welcoming and affirming campus environment. Students take pride in their heritage and build lifelong bonds through campus traditions, cultural celebrations, and over 100 student organizations. Leadership programs, Greek life, and athletics contribute to a spirited, purpose-driven community.
COMMUNITY-BASED LEARNING
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) offers an array of community-based learning opportunities through programs like the Community Service and Service Learning Program, the WSSU RESILIENCE Program, and the Office of Field & Clinical Experiences. These programs help students gain practical experience, address community needs, and develop civic engagement skills.
SCHOOL LOCATION
Located in the historic city of Winston-Salem, the university is embedded in a rich cultural landscape with access to museums, theaters, research centers, and community organizations. Students benefit from a strong network of support that champions both academic and personal growth.
WSSU graduates are known for their resilience, leadership, and sense of service. The university’s commitment to career preparation is evident in its strong advising, mentorship, and professional development programs. Students regularly participate in career fairs, job shadowing, and graduate school prep to position themselves for post-college success.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Career Development Services (CDS) supports students throughout all phases of the career development process. They offer a full range of resources and services to help students develop the necessary strategies and skills that will distinguish them as professionals. CDS staff members help students learn about their skills and interests, and articulate them confidently in résumés, cover letters, interviews, and personal statements; identify and explore career options that they might pursue; and implement an effective strategy to attain their desired career outcomes.
Admission
TEST SCORES
Optional
FRESHMAN PROFILE
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th Percentile: 420 | 75th Percentile: 530
SAT Math
25th Percentile: 400 | 75th Percentile: 520
ACT Composite
25th Percentile: 14 | 75th Percentile: 18
ACT Math
25th Percentile: 15 | 75th Percentile: 18
ACT English
25th Percentile: 12 | 75th Percentile: 17
Tuition & Cost
Tuition (in-state): $3,401
Tuition (out-of-state): $14,057
Fees: $3,334
Room: $7,402
Board: $3,985
Contact Winston-Salem State University
Contact Admissions
wssu.edu/admissions
(336) 750-2074
admissions@wssu.edu
Campus Location
601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Winston-Salem, NC 27110
(336) 750-2000