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Norfolk State University and Radford University are both public institutions — Norfolk State University in Norfolk, VA and Radford University in Radford, VA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Norfolk, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,392
Tuition: $21,682/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 38.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Norfolk, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Radford, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 89.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 6,038
Tuition: $25,633/year
Student-faculty ratio: 14.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.7%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Radford, VA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Norfolk State University | Radford University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 87.8% | 89.5% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 823–1030 |
| 940–1160 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 16–22 | 19–26 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 5,392 | 6,038 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,682/year | $25,633/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,282 | $14,578 |
| Graduation rate | 38.5% | 48.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $44,666 | $53,739 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 14.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Norfolk, VA | Radford, VA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology | Health professions, Business and marketing, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (87.8% vs 89.5%). Radford University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($14,578 vs $15,282). Radford University reports the higher graduation rate (48.7% vs 38.5%). Radford University is the larger undergraduate campus (6,038 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Norfolk State University and Radford University
Norfolk State University has an acceptance rate of 87.8%; Radford University is around 89.5%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Norfolk State University tuition is $21,682/year. Radford University is $25,633/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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