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Salem State University and University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth are both public institutions — Salem State University in Salem, MA and University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth in North Dartmouth, MA. 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.
Salem, MA · Public
Acceptance rate: 95.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,291
Tuition: $19,531/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 49.8%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Salem, MA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
North Dartmouth, MA · Public
Acceptance rate: 90.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,221
Tuition: $32,567/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 52.1%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in North Dartmouth, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Salem State University | University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 95.9% | 90.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 1050–1270 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | 26–30 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 4,291 | 5,221 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,531/year | $32,567/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,996 | $20,927 |
| Graduation rate | 49.8% | 52.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $56,662 | $68,804 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Salem, MA | North Dartmouth, MA |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Psychology | Business and marketing, Health professions, Social sciences |
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth is more selective (90.6% vs 95.9% acceptance rate). Salem State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,996 vs $20,927). University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth reports the higher graduation rate (52.1% vs 49.8%). University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth is the larger undergraduate campus (5,221 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 Salem State University and University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
Salem State University has an acceptance rate of 95.9%; University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth is around 90.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Salem State University tuition is $19,531/year. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth is $32,567/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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