HomeUniversitiesNortheastern State University
Northeastern State University
Public UniversityUnited States

Northeastern State University

United States

19,904/yr

Avg. tuition

26,834/yr

Living (Bachelors)

20,477/yr

Living (Masters)

43+programs

Courses

About

Northeastern State University (NSU) is a public university with its main campus in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. The university also has two other campuses in Muskogee and Broken Arrow and online. Northeastern is the oldest institution of higher learning in Oklahoma and one of the oldest institutions west of the Mississippi River. Tahlequah is home to the capital of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, and about 25% of Northeastern State University students identify as American Indian.

Northeastern State University offers 69 undergraduate degrees, 18 graduate degrees and 13 pre-professional programs in five colleges (Business & Technology, Liberal Arts, Education, Optometry, and Health & Science Professions). There is also a distance-learning program by which students who cannot attend university due to work or family obligations can complete courses via the Internet or videoconferencing.

Northeastern State University is an Oklahoma State University System member accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The university is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to diversity, and beautiful campus. Northeastern State University is a great place to get a quality education in a supportive environment.

What is the acceptance rate of the Northeastern State University?

The acceptance rate for international students at Northeastern State University is 99%. The tuition fees for international students at Northeastern State University are as follows:

  • Undergraduate tuition: $17,438 per year
  • Graduate tuition: $19,068 per year

In addition to tuition, international students must also pay a variety of fees, including:

  • International student fee: $150 per semester
  • International orientation fee: $50
  • Books and supplies fee: $1,000
  • Health northeastern State Universityrance fee: $1,500
  • Housing and dining fee: Varies

Northeastern State University is ranked in the regional university rankings by U.S. News & World Report. In the 2023 rankings, Northeastern State University is ranked #77 out of 120 regional universities in the West. Northeastern State University is also ranked #39 out of 100 Western public regional universities.

Top Reasons to Study in the Northeastern State University

  • Academic solid programs: Northeastern State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, many of which are ranked among the best in the state. For example, Northeastern State University's optometry program is ranked #1 in the state of Oklahoma.
  • Commitment to diversity: Northeastern State University is a diverse campus with students from all over the world. This diversity creates a rich learning environment where students can learn from each other. Northeastern State University is also home to the Cherokee Nation Center for Indigenous Studies, one of the country's only centres of its kind.
  • Beautiful campus: Northeastern State University's campus is in the Ozark Mountains' foothills. The campus is home to a variety of historical buildings, as well as modern facilities.
  • Strong athletics program: Northeastern State University is an NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference member. The RiverHawks compete in 15 sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and softball.
  • Affordable tuition: Northeastern State University is a public university, meaning tuition is relatively affordable. In-state tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $17,438.
  • Scholarships and financial aid: Northeastern State University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. This can help to make Northeastern State University more affordable for students from all backgrounds.

Admissions

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

99%

Application Fee

$25 - $30


How to Apply at Northeastern State University

The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.

Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Online Application from their official website.
  • The application fee is $25 (Non-Refundable) for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic
    • Personal statement/Essay writing
    • Two letters of teacher recommendation
    • Financial Aid Statement of Intent

Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Online Application on their official website.
  • The application fee is $25 (Non-Refundable) for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic
    • Personal statement/essay writing
    • Transfer Report Form
    • Letter of recommendation
    • Financial documentation

Documents Required to Apply to Northeastern State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Complete the Online Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic English Test scores.
  • Personal statement/Essay writing
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Financial documentation
  • Resume
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form 
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students

  • Complete the Online Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
  • GRE/GMAT scores 
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic English Test scores.
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Resume (Relevant work experience)
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

All documents must be in English or have an official English translation


Exams Accepted By Northeastern State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic English Test scores.

Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students

  • Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or iTEP Academic English Test scores.

Campus Life

Number of campuses the university has
3

Campus locations
Oklahoma

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

  • Public bus: The City of Tahlequah operates a public bus system that serves various points in the city, including the Northeastern State University campus. Bus fares are $1.25 for adults and $0.50 for children and seniors.
  • Taxi: A few taxi companies in Tahlequah serve the Northeastern State University and other city areas. Taxi fares vary depending on the distance travelled.
  • Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft are also available in Tahlequah. Ride-hailing fares vary depending on the distance travelled and the time of day.
  • Bicycle: Tahlequah is a relatively flat city, making it an excellent place to bike. The city has a few bike paths, including one that connects to the Northeastern State University campus.
  • Walking: Tahlequah is a small city, so it is easy to get around by walking. The Northeastern State University campus is also walkable, with several sidewalks and crosswalks in the city.

Services offered by the university

  • Academic advising: Northeastern State University offers academic advising to all students. Academic advisors can help students choose suitable courses, plan their academic path, and Northeastern State University, they are on track to graduate.
  • Career counselling: Northeastern State University offers career counselling to students. Career counsellors can help students explore career options, develop resumes, and prepare for job interviews.
  • Financial aid: Northeastern State University offers financial aid to students who need help paying for college. Financial aid can come from grants, loans, and work-study.
  • Health services: Northeastern State University offers students, faculty, and staff health services. Health services include a doctor's office, a dentist's office, a pharmacy, and a counselling centre.
  • Student activities: Northeastern State University offers a variety of student activities, including clubs, organisations, and sports teams. Student activities can help students get involved on campus and make friends.
  • Housing: Northeastern State University offers housing to students. Housing options include residence halls, apartments, and cottages.
  • Dining services: Northeastern State University offers students, faculty, and staff dining services. Dining options include a cafeteria, a grill, and a coffee shop.

Student life at Northeastern State University

  • Join a club or organisation: Northeastern State University has over 100 student organisations, so there is something for everyone. Students can join clubs based on their interests, such as the Art Club, the Debate Team, or the Spanish Club. They can also join organisations based on their majors, such as the Business Club or the Nursing Club.
  • Attend sporting events: Northeastern State University is an NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference member. The RiverHawks compete in 15 sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and softball. Students can cheer on their school's teams at home games or travel to away games.
  • Go to the movies: The Northeastern State University Theater Department puts on a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year. Students can get tickets for these performances at the Tri-State University Center for the Performing Arts.
  • Visit the art museum: The Northeastern State University Museum of Art houses a collection of over 4,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery. Students can visit the museum for free and learn about art from different cultures.
  • Go hiking or camping: Northeastern State University is located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, offering plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Students can go hiking, camping, fishing, or swimming.
  • Have fun at the student union: The Northeastern State University Student Union is the heart of campus life. Students can go to the game room, the bowling alley, or the food court. They can also attend concerts, dances, and other events at the Student Union.

On campus accomodation at Northeastern State University

  • Residence halls: Northeastern State University has six residence halls on campus. Residence halls offer a variety of room types, including singles, doubles, triples, and quads. Residence halls also have common areas like lounges, study rooms, and laundry facilities.
  • Apartments: Northeastern State University also has two apartment complexes on campus. Apartments offer more privacy than residence halls, and they also have kitchenettes. Apartments are a good option for students who want more independence.
  • Cottages: Northeastern State University also has two cottages on campus. Cottages are a good option for students who want a more private living experience. Cottages have kitchens and living rooms, located away from the hustle and bustle of campus.

Housing Cost

The cost of on-campus accommodation at Northeastern State University varies depending on the type of housing and the number of people in the room. For example, a single room in a residence hall costs $3,200 per semester, while a quad room in a residence hall costs $1,800 per semester.

Students who live on campus are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plans include breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Northeastern State University dining hall. Meal plans cost $1,500 per semester for 12 meals per week or $1,800 per semester for 18 meals per week.

Faculty

University Faculty:Student Ratio

1:17

University Faculty Stats

  • Number of faculty: Northeastern State University has 600 faculty members, including full-time and part-time faculty.
  • Percentage of female faculty: 54% of Northeastern State University faculty are female.
  • Percentage of minority faculty: 21% of Northeastern State University faculty are minorities.
  • Average faculty salary: The average salary for a full-time faculty member at Northeastern State University is $66,000 per year.
  • Percentage of faculty with tenure: 55% of Northeastern State University faculty have tenure.
  • Percentage of faculty with PhDs: 75% of Northeastern State University faculty have PhDs.

Career Opportunities

University Endowments Value

18155040

Internship opportunities at Northeastern State University

  • On-campus jobs: Northeastern State University offers a variety of on-campus jobs for students, such as work-study positions, student assistant positions, and tutoring positions.
  • Off-campus jobs: Northeastern State University also partners with local businesses and organisations to offer off-campus jobs for students. These jobs can be in various fields, such as retail, food service, and healthcare.
  • Summer internships: Northeastern State University offers summer internships for students in various fields. These internships can be with businesses, government agencies, or non-profit organisations.
  • Research internships: Northeastern State University also offers research internships for students interested in conducting research. These internships can be with faculty members or with other research institutions.

Placement of Northeastern State University

Job Placement

According to Northeastern State University's (NSU) 2022 Career Outcomes Report, 96% of the Class of 2022 had secured full-time employment within 6 months of graduation. 

Top Hiring Companies

The top 10 hiring companies for Northeastern State University graduates in 2022 were:

  • Cherokee Nation Businesses
  • Bank of America
  • Walmart
  • State of Oklahoma
  • AT&T
  • United Health Group
  • Walgreens
  • General Motors
  • General Motors
  • Chickasaw Nation Industries

Salaries

The average starting salary for Northeastern State University graduates in 2022 was $47,000. The salaries ranged from $25,000 to $100,000, with the highest salaries in business, engineering, and healthcare.

Popular Courses · 43

Last updated August 14, 2026

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Northeastern State University : Admission 2025-26, Rankings, Fees & Acceptance Rate at NSU