Overview
Founded in 1894 as Fitchburg Normal School to train teachers, the institution evolved through several name changes before becoming Fitchburg State University in 2010. It has built a reputation as a solid, affordable public university serving the North Central Massachusetts region, with particular strength in teacher preparation, criminal justice, business, and industrial technology programs. Over more than a century, the university has expanded from its teacher-training roots into a comprehensive institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across multiple disciplines.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Fitchburg, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1894 |
| Total students | 5,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $12,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $16,500 |
| Room & board | $12,500 |
| Average financial aid | $10,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 980-1170 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Business Administration
- Communications Media
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.