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Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH

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Quick Facts

1964
Founded
Public research university
Type
9,077
Total Students
8,761
Undergrad
4,307
Graduate
$144M
Endowment
(2026)
$13K
Tuition (In-State)
$18K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
6-year
69%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University: Cleveland's dynamic public research hub, built on a legacy of urban innovation.

Cleveland State University (CSU) stands as a cornerstone of public higher education in Cleveland, transforming lives and contributing to the region's vibrancy. What began with free classes offered by the Cleveland YMCA in 1870 evolved into Fenn College, eventually becoming CSU in 1964 when the State of Ohio acquired its campus. Today, CSU is a robust public research university, deeply committed to serving its diverse student body and the broader community.

Known for its strong foundations in engineering, business, arts and sciences, and education, CSU offers a comprehensive academic experience. The Washkewicz College of Engineering continues its legacy of innovation, while the groundbreaking CSU School of Film & Media Arts, established in 2018, positions the university at the forefront of creative industries in Ohio. Partnerships, like the one with Northeast Ohio Medical University, further enrich its academic landscape and research opportunities.

CSU has historically served as a commuter college for area residents, and while it grew significantly, it continues to adapt to student needs with robust hybrid and remote learning options. Under leadership that aimed to elevate its national standing, CSU has focused on academic excellence and providing accessible, high-quality education. The university celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024, looking forward with a new vision, "Cleveland State United," to shape its future as Cleveland's premier public research institution.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1964, building on a legacy of public education tracing back to 1870.
  • A leading public research university serving 13,068 students.
  • Home to the Washkewicz College of Engineering, a foundational pillar of the university.
  • Features Ohio's first standalone CSU School of Film & Media Arts, established in 2018.
  • Strategic partnership with Northeast Ohio Medical University since 2008.
  • Offers robust hybrid and remote learning opportunities, adapting to modern student needs.
  • Celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024, reflecting a rich history and forward-looking vision.

Timeline

1870
Cleveland YMCA began offering free higher education classes
1921
Cleveland YMCA School of Technology separated from the YMCA
1923
Began offering bachelor's degrees (regarded as Fenn College's founding date)
1929
Formally renamed Fenn College
1964
State of Ohio purchased Fenn College campus, establishing Cleveland State University
2008
Partnered with Northeast Ohio Medical University
2012
Opened the Galleries at CSU and partnered with South China University of Technology
2018
Established the CSU School of Film & Media Arts
2024
Celebrated its 60th anniversary
2025
Launched new vision, Cleveland State United
🏛️
62 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Cleveland State University

⚙️

Washkewicz College of Engineering

Evolved from the original Fenn College of Engineering, a core academic strength.

💼

College of Business Administration

One of the original colleges established at the university's founding.

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

One of the original colleges established at the university's founding.

📚

College of Education

One of the original colleges established at the university's founding.

🎭

CSU School of Film & Media Arts

Ohio's first standalone film school, established in 2018.

Leadership

Nigamanth Sridhar
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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