Cleveland State University - Uni4edu

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, United States

Cleveland State University campus aerial view showing Rhodes Tower and modern buildings along Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland, Ohio skyline with Lake Erie in the background, urban campus setting

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, United States

Founded

1964

Institution Type

Public Research University

Total Students

14,000+

Acceptance Rate

91%

Discover Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University (CSU) is a public research university located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 1964, the university assumed the buildings, faculty, and programs of the former Fenn College, a private institution that had been in operation since 1923. Today CSU is part of the University System of Ohio and is classified as an R2 Doctoral University with high research activity.

CSU offers over 200 academic programs across eight colleges and schools, serving more than 14,000 students from diverse backgrounds. The university is recognized as number one in the nation for increases in research expenditures by the National Science Foundation, and maintains strong partnerships with institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, NASA Glenn Research Center, and Case Western Reserve University.

Situated on an 85-acre urban campus along historic Euclid Avenue, Cleveland State provides students with direct access to the cultural, professional, and economic resources of a major American city. The campus has undergone significant modernization, including the striking Washkewicz College of Engineering addition and the School of Film and Media Arts located at Playhouse Square.

Key Milestones

  • 1964: Cleveland State University established by Ohio Governor James Rhodes, absorbing Fenn College.
  • 1969: Cleveland-Marshall College of Law became part of CSU, tracing its origins to 1897.
  • 2008: Partnership established with Northeast Ohio Medical University for urban healthcare training.
  • 2018: CSU School of Film and Media Arts opened at Playhouse Square, the first standalone film school in Ohio.

Academic Structure and Colleges

Cleveland State University organizes its academic offerings across eight colleges and schools, providing over 200 programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Each college offers hands-on learning experiences enhanced by the university's urban location and strong industry partnerships throughout Northeast Ohio.

Monte Ahuja College of Business

Offering AACSB-accredited programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and management, the Monte Ahuja College of Business prepares students for leadership roles in the global economy through experiential learning and corporate partnerships.

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Accountancy

Washkewicz College of Engineering

Named after the Parker Hannifin executive, the Washkewicz College of Engineering offers programs in civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering with strong co-op and research opportunities tied to Cleveland's industrial base.

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering

College of Arts and Sciences

The largest college at CSU, Arts and Sciences encompasses disciplines ranging from the natural sciences and humanities to social sciences, mathematics, and the performing arts, fostering critical thinking and creative expression.

  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • English

College of Law

Tracing its origins to 1897, the College of Law is one of Ohio's oldest law schools and is known for its clinical programs, trial advocacy training, and commitment to public service law.

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Legal Studies
  • JD/MBA Dual Degree

Levin College of Public Affairs and Education

Focused on urban education, public administration, and social work, the Levin College prepares professionals to address complex challenges in public policy, community development, and educational leadership.

  • Public Administration (MPA)
  • Urban Studies
  • Teacher Education

College of Health

The College of Health offers programs in nursing, social work, health sciences, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, supported by partnerships with Cleveland's renowned healthcare institutions.

  • Nursing (BSN)
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
  • Social Work (MSW)

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission

  • ApplicationCommon App or CSU Application with USD 40 fee
  • High School GPAMinimum 2.3 GPA recommended; GPA is considered very important
  • Standardized TestsSAT/ACT scores optional for recent terms; typical ACT range 18-26
  • TranscriptsOfficial high school transcripts from all schools attended
  • English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent required for international applicants
CSU has adopted a test-optional policy for SAT/ACT scores. Students are welcome but not required to submit standardized test results with their application.

Graduate Admission

  • ApplicationOnline graduate application with USD 40 fee
  • Bachelor's DegreeEarned from a regionally accredited institution
  • TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
  • Entrance ExamsGRE or GMAT required for select programs; not all programs require scores
  • English ProficiencyTOEFL (minimum 78 iBT) or IELTS required for international students
Not all graduate programs require standardized entrance exams. Check specific program requirements on the CSU website. Some programs also require letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
August 15
Fall Semester (Undergraduate)

Regular application deadline for undergraduate students entering in the fall term. Rolling admissions apply.

July 21
Fall Semester (Graduate International)

Deadline for international graduate applicants for the fall semester. Some programs have earlier deadlines.

December 10
Spring Semester (Graduate International)

Deadline for international graduate applicants for the spring semester.

April 14
Summer Semester (Graduate International)

Deadline for international graduate applicants for the summer semester.

Tuition and Scholarships

Cleveland State University offers competitive tuition rates, particularly for Ohio residents who benefit from the state-mandated tuition guarantee that locks in the per-credit cost for all four undergraduate years. CSU also implements a tuition band between 12 and 18 credits, meaning students pay the same tuition whether taking 12 or 18 credits per semester.

Cost CategoryOhio ResidentOut-of-State / International
Tuition & Fees (Undergraduate)USD 13,362USD 19,046
Room & BoardUSD 13,500 (est.)USD 13,500 (est.)
Books & SuppliesUSD 1,000USD 1,000
Other ExpensesUSD 5,076 (est.)USD 4,914 (est.)
TotalUSD 32,938USD 38,460

Merit-Based Freshman Scholarships

Incoming freshmen are automatically considered for CSU merit-based awards based on their academic achievements. No separate application is required for most merit scholarships.

  • Eligibility: Based on GPA and academic performance
  • Application: Automatic consideration upon admission
  • Average Aid: Contact the university for current award amounts

International Student Scholarships

Cleveland State University offers scholarship opportunities specifically for international students who are enrolled at the university. Graduate assistantships and research assistantships are also available.

  • Type: Merit-based and need-based awards
  • Includes: Graduate assistantships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships
  • Application: Complete FAFSA and check CSU scholarship portal

Campus and Facilities

Cleveland State University's 85-acre campus is located in the heart of downtown Cleveland along historic Euclid Avenue. The campus blends modern facilities with historic landmarks, connected by skywalks and served by bus rapid transit on the Euclid Corridor, providing easy access to the entire city.

Housing and Dining

On-Campus Housing

CSU offers multiple residence options in downtown Cleveland, including traditional dormitories and apartment-style living. The university has invested in expanding housing to support a growing residential student population.

  • Fenn Tower residence hall
  • Euclid Commons apartments
  • Viking Hall housing

Dining Options

Students can choose from various dining options on campus and in the surrounding downtown area. Flexible meal plans are available for residential and commuter students alike.

  • On-campus dining hall
  • Campus cafes and food courts
  • Nearby downtown Cleveland restaurants

Student Life at Cleveland State

Cleveland State University offers a vibrant student life experience enriched by its urban setting in downtown Cleveland. With over 200 student organizations, Division I athletics, and easy access to the city's cultural attractions, students enjoy a dynamic college experience that extends far beyond the classroom.

Student Organizations

CSU hosts a diverse range of student organizations that cater to academic, cultural, recreational, and professional interests. Students are encouraged to get involved from their very first semester.

Academic and Professional

Discipline-specific organizations, honor societies, and pre-professional clubs that connect students with industry mentors and career development opportunities.

Cultural and International

Organizations celebrating the diverse backgrounds of CSU's student body, including groups for international students from over 80 countries.

Community Service and Leadership

Service-oriented groups that engage students in volunteer work, civic engagement, and leadership development throughout the Cleveland community.

Arts and Recreation

Creative and recreational clubs including performing arts ensembles, film societies, intramural sports, and outdoor adventure groups.

Vikings Athletics

Horizon League (NCAA Division I)

  • Men's Basketball
  • Women's Basketball
  • Men's Soccer
  • Women's Soccer
  • Fencing
  • Swimming and Diving
NCAA Division I

Cleveland: A City of Culture and Opportunity

Downtown Cleveland Ohio skyline at sunset with Terminal Tower, Key Tower, and modern skyscrapers reflected in the Cuyahoga River, Lake Erie visible in the background
The Cleveland skyline showcases the city's blend of historic architecture and modern development along Lake Erie.

Life in Cleveland

Cleveland is a major city in Northeast Ohio known for its rich cultural institutions, thriving healthcare and technology sectors, and affordable cost of living. As a CSU student, you will have direct access to world-renowned museums, professional sports, a vibrant food scene, and extensive internship and employment opportunities with major employers in the region.

Cultural Attractions

Home to the Cleveland Museum of Art, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Playhouse Square (the largest performing arts center in the U.S. outside of New York), and the Cleveland Orchestra.

Healthcare Hub

Cleveland is a global healthcare leader anchored by the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals, providing extensive clinical and research opportunities for students.

Affordable Living

Compared to other major U.S. cities, Cleveland offers a significantly lower cost of living, making it an attractive destination for students managing educational expenses.

Transportation

The campus is served by the RTA bus rapid transit along Euclid Avenue, connecting downtown Cleveland to University Circle and beyond. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is easily accessible.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

Contact CSU
Employment Rate
Contact the university for current employment data
USD 44,625
Median Salary
Six years after graduation (U.S. News)
120,000+
Alumni Network
Graduates worldwide

Top Employers of CSU Graduates

Cleveland Clinic Progressive Insurance KeyBank Sherwin-Williams NASA Glenn Research Center University Hospitals Parker Hannifin MetroHealth Medical Center

Practical Information

For International Students

International Admissions Office

The International Admissions Office assists prospective international students with application procedures, visa documentation (I-20 and DS-2019 forms), and credential evaluation.

Intensive English Language Program (IELP)

CSU offers an Intensive English Language Program for students who need to improve their English proficiency before beginning academic coursework. Successful completion of the advanced level can satisfy English proficiency requirements.

International Student Support

International students receive support through academic advising, career services, cultural programming, and assistance with immigration regulations and on-campus employment opportunities.

Key Contacts

Campus411 All-in-1 Enrollment Services
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

Cleveland State University World Rankings

Cleveland State University is recognized in multiple national and international ranking systems. The university has been gaining visibility for its research output and is ranked number one in the nation for increases in research expenditures by the National Science Foundation.

QS World University Rankings
#1401+
2026
Times Higher Education
#401-500
2022
U.S. News Global Universities
#1933
2025
U.S. News National Universities
#343
2026
SubjectRanking BodyRank
BusinessEduRank#162 in the U.S.
EngineeringEduRank#222 in the U.S.
Computer ScienceEduRank#219 in the U.S.
EducationU.S. News Best Grad Schools#147 in the U.S.
book icon
17000
Graduate Students
badge icon
1000
Academic Stuf
profile icon
17000
Students
apartment icon
Public
Instution Type

Features

Cleveland State University (CSU) features an urban campus in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, with engaged learning opportunities like internships and co-ops, a diverse student body, and a focus on upward mobility and impactful research. Key features include: state-of-the-art facilities, over 200 student organizations, eight academic colleges including Law and Engineering, more than 175 academic programs, a strong connection with Cleveland-based organizations like the Cleveland Clinic and NASA, and a nationally ranked online learning platform.

Featured Programmes

Bachelor's Degree

48 months

Psychology BA

location

Cleveland State University, Cleveland, United States

Earliest Intake

July 2026

Gross Tuition

21910 $

Bachelor's Degree

48 months

Political Science BA

location

Cleveland State University, Cleveland, United States

Earliest Intake

July 2026

Gross Tuition

21910 $

Bachelor's Degree

48 months

Pharmaceutical Sciences BS

location

Cleveland State University, Cleveland, United States

Earliest Intake

July 2026

Gross Tuition

21910 $

Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter

August - May

Location

Cleveland is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers many opportunities and resources, especially for students. One of the significant advantages of studying in Cleveland is its affordable cost of living, which is relatively lower than other major cities in the US, making it an attractive destination for students on a budget. The city also has a robust public transportation system that connects students to various parts of the city and provides a rich cultural and entertainment scene.

Location not found

Map not found.

AI Assistant

Uni4Edu AI Assistant