Overview
Northeastern State University was founded in 1846, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher education west of the Mississippi River, originally established as the Cherokee National Female Seminary. Headquartered in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, NSU has grown into a multi-campus public university serving a diverse student population, including one of the highest percentages of Native American students among U.S. universities. The nursing program, housed within the university's health sciences offerings, has built a strong regional reputation for preparing graduates for licensure and employment in rural and underserved healthcare settings.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Tahlequah, Oklahoma |
| Founded | 1846 |
| Total students | 8,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 68% |
| Graduation rate | 42% |
| Average starting salary | $58,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $7,200 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $16,500 |
| Room & board | $9,800 |
| Average financial aid | $8,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 82% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 950-1160 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | August 1 |
Top Programs
- Nursing (BSN)
- Optometry
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Business Administration
- Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.