Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University is a bold, vibrant and diverse academic community that fosters the creative thinking, analytical problem-solving, and depth of character graduates need to transform themselves and their world. These values embody our motto, “Enter to Learn. Depart to Serve.”

Founded in 1892, WSSU enjoys a distinguished reputation as a historically black constituent institution of the University of North Carolina that offers a rich curriculum rooted in a high-quality, liberal education. Our undergraduate and graduate students can choose from many innovative areas of study designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to develop creative solutions to today’s—and tomorrow’s—complex problems.

WSSU offers high quality, challenging programs that prepare graduates to lead and serve in their professions and communities. Choose from more than 40 undergraduate majors and 10 graduate programs, both masters and doctorate. Our faculty are known for their research expertise, getting to know our students, and working closely with them.

WSSU is a vibrant student-centered learning community, embracing educational excellence in a caring culture that supports student success. Prepare for today's in-demand jobs with innovative programs in more than 40 majors. Ignite your passion, discover your strength, and prepare to make a difference in the world.

There is no ceiling to what you can do at WSSU. Exciting student activities. Small classes where you get to know your professors. Leadership opportunities. Traditions that celebrate our heritage. Ignite your passion, discover your strength, and prepare to make a difference in the world.

Yes, you CAN finish your degree at NC's #1 HBCU. Ignite your passion, discover your strength, and prepare to make a difference in the world. #BeTheNext

WSSU offers more than 10 outstanding programs to advance your career with a master's or doctoral degree. A WSSU degree offers great value - we are ranked #2 in the UNC system for highest salary after receiving a graduate degree.

Study abroad allows you the opportunity to gain insight into new cultures and languages while you develop a new global perspective on the world. The world is becoming increasingly interdependent, and employers and graduate schools often prefer applicants with global experience. Study abroad is an important extension of your academic and personal development that you cannot afford to miss.

The Office of Continuing Education offers noncredit personal and professional development courses which reflect and anticipate the changing nature of society. University admission is not required.

The Department of Disability Services is here to assist you with any barriers you may encounter while you are at Winston-Salem State University student or employee. Disability Services works to ensure all WSSU faculty, staff and enrolled students have an equal opportunity to participate in all aspects of collegiate life.

We are here to make sure that your college experience is fun, exciting, enriching, and engaged. University Student Activities & Engagement (USAE) provides you with opportunities to get involved in social groups, activities, community service, and events throughout the year.

Career Development Services (CDS) works with students during all phases of the career development process. Career Development Services offers a full range of resources and services to assist you in developing the necessary strategies and skills which will distinguish you as a professional. CDS staff members want to help you learn about your skills and interests, and articulate them confidently in resumes, cover letters, interviews, and personal statements; identify and explore career options that you might pursue; and implement an effective strategy to attain your desired career outcomes.

The Hire-a-Ram Student Employment Program is a federally funded service sponsored by WSSU's Office of Career Development Services. The goal of the program is to assist WSSU students in obtaining off-campus part-time, temporary or seasonal employment while attending the University.

Internship programs are designed to strengthen your academic program through experiential learning and the practical application of acquired knowledge. Co-ops and internships are experiential learning programs which provide opportunities to gain work experience prior to graduation.

Let Career Development Services help you jump start your career development, job search, and/or graduate school process. There many resources that are available to current WSSU students and alumni.

Winston-Salem State University was founded as the Slater Industrial Academy by Simon Green Atkins on September 28, 1892. Atkins had an audacious vision to create an institution where every student would meet the challenges of the day equipped with an education designed to intellectually prepare the “head, hand, and heart.” Twenty-five students attended classes in a one-room frame structure and were taught by a single instructor.

Since its founding in 1892, Winston-Salem State University has grown from a one-room frame structure to more than 39 buildings located on a picturesque 117-acre campus overlooking the woodlands of Salem Lake in the heart of Winston-Salem.

The university is now number one in the UNC system for North Carolina job placement for graduates and number one in the UNC system for the average salary for triad-area graduates. It is home to an award-winning student activities center, top 25 division II football, basketball and baseball programs, and offers students 100-plus student organizations.

With a faculty-to-student ratio of 16:1, the university enrolls approximately 5,100 students and offers more than 40 bachelor’s programs, 9 master’s programs, two professional doctoral programs, and two certificate programs. Through the Division of Lifelong Learning, opportunities abound for non-traditional students to pursue studies through evening-weekend, summer, distance learning, and continuing education classes.