Founded in 1894, Fitchburg State University. is a Public college. Located in Massachusetts, which is a city setting in Massachusetts, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 4,162 full time undergraduate students, and 2,601 full time graduate students.
The Fitchburg State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 14:1. There are 204 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Fitchburg State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
74%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
50
SAT Range
890-1090
ACT Range
18-24
Admissions at FSC are considered Selective, with ,24% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 21 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
0% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 0% were in the top quarter, and 0% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Fitchburg State University.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
43%
“We know about current events and vote”
57%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
0%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
57%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
19%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
14%
“I only go out in groups”
62%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
24%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
29%
“We bought the gear”
48%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
62%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
19%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
33%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
57%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
10%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
38%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
38%
“We only party on weekends”
14%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
19%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
52%
“There might be people who do”
29%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
0%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
43%
“We know about current events and vote”
57%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
0%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
57%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
19%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
14%
“I only go out in groups”
62%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
24%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
29%
“We bought the gear”
48%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
62%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
19%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
33%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
57%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
55 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
38 Students rated off-campus housing 3.4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
68 Students rated campus food 3.2 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
72 Students rated campus facilities 3.9 stars. 26 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
72 Students rated class size 4.3 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
71 Students rated school activities 3.7 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
70 Students rated local services 4 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
72 Students rated academics 4.3 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.
Fitchburg State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Fitchburg State University?
24 Students rated Fitchburg State University
Natalia
08/02/2024
Nestled into the rolling hills of central Massachusetts and located just at the outskirts of the heart of an up-and-coming city, Fitchburg State University offers a distinctive blend of tradition and innovation. This historic institution delivers a comprehensive and enriching college experience by merging academic rigor, professional preparation, personal interests, and community.
Fitchburg State touts a student-oriented approach to higher education, making for an accessible, affordable, and personalized academic journey. With over 60 different graduate and undergraduate programs comprising a diverse array of course options, there truly is something for everyone. In addition, the university provides flexible learning options, including Honors courses and various modalities such as in-person, hybrid, online synchronous, and online asynchronous formats, to fit diverse schedules and preferences. Regardless of what courses you take, small class sizes ensure students benefit from close interactions with professors who are not only knowledgeable and experienced but also passionate about their subjects.
The university’s commitment to career readiness goes beyond traditional lectures by emphasizing hands-on, experiential learning through state-of-the-art facilities like the nursing simulation lab and game design idea lab. Additionally, with a strong focus on connecting students with potential employers through career fairs and internships with numerous industry-leading companies, students gain the confidence and exposure necessary to be successful in their field. From academic tutoring to counseling services, the university also offers a wide range of resources, ensuring students have the support needed to thrive in every facet of life.
Beyond the academics, Fitchburg State promises a vibrant campus life that enhances the student experience. With over 85 sports, clubs, and organizations, students have countless opportunities to connect with peers and explore their interests. The campus hosts free events and gatherings daily, from workshops and career-oriented activities to cultural and recreational experiences. Whether you're interested in joining major-based clubs, participating in cultural or religious groups, exploring Greek life, or diving into unique interest-based organizations, Fitchburg State provides numerous avenues to get involved and enrich your college journey.
The facilities are all newly renovated to meet the needs and lifestyles of modern college students, complemented by meticulously maintained grounds. The four-story library reimagines the traditional quiet zone through its innovative design, offering collaboration areas, study rooms, conference rooms, and silent floors, among thousands of books, journals, digital resources, and course materials. Additionally, many classrooms have been transformed into “flipped classrooms,” featuring whiteboard walls and table groups equipped with embedded laptops and monitors. This setup fosters a dynamic learning environment where student engagement with the material is at the forefront.
Fitchburg State has multiple on-campus housing options for both graduate and undergraduate students. The campus features three traditional dorm and suite-style buildings, offering single, double, or triple occupancy rooms. These buildings are equipped with central lounges, TVs, and game tables, as well as private bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and common areas. These residence halls are designed to enhance the student experience through Residential Living Communities, where you can be grouped by major, Honors program status, or personal interests. This approach fosters a supportive and engaging living environment throughout your studies. For upperclass students, there are three university-owned apartments to consider with one building being located on campus, while two others are less than a ten-minute walk away.
Flexible meal plan options are designed to cater to both commuter and residential students. The small campus layout means you're never far from one of the numerous dining options. There is a clear focus on variety when it comes to food on campus, with an emphasis on local, seasonal, and culturally diverse foods to celebrate both community and individuality. The central dining facility features a cafeteria-style setup with various food choices and accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergies. For quick meals, smaller chain establishments on campus offer popular made-to-order food and drinks on the go. Additionally, the university hosts frequent dining events, such as holiday-themed meals and interactive pop-up areas where students can vote on their preferred offerings.
Overall, Fitchburg State University offers the traditional college experience along with everything anyone could need to learn, connect, and build memories to last a lifetime. It is the dedication to both personal and academic growth that truly makes it feel like an investment into yourself and your desired future. At FSU, “It’s About You!”
Natalia
07/18/2024
Fitchburg State University offers a compelling blend of academic rigor and supportive community that I find appealing. It is well-regarded for its strong programs in nursing, which align with my academic interests. The emphasis on practical experience through internships and cooperative education is particularly appealing to me, as it provides valuable hands-on learning opportunities that can enhance my career readiness.
I appreciate the smaller class sizes and the personal attention that faculty members are known to provide. This aspect is crucial for me as it fosters a conducive learning environment where I can actively engage with course material and receive guidance when needed. The campus facilities, including modern classrooms, labs, and recreational spaces, contribute to a positive learning experience.
Fitchburg State's campus offers a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles that I find attractive, but the surrounding area is not very safe. The diversity of the campus community and the resources available for student development are also factors that contribute to my favorable view of the university.
Logan
04/15/2020
I enjoyed my education here, most of the teachers were helpful and available. I find that I did not live the typical college career here. There is not much to do outside of school in the area. I think that school should create areas for students to go on weekends and be keener to making the area a college area rather than the area it is now. The area is not safe and not fun t walk around. if you do not have a car you are pretty much stuck on campus. The problems with the school are not in academics but rather in social aspect of college.
Sofia
11/29/2019
It's a really good school that is very under rated. It's a relatively small campus, with a pretty scenery and really nice students and professors. The other staff working on campus are very nice as well. This is my first real semester here but I am loving it so far and everything is very accessible, from the shuttles to knowing how to navigate through campus.
Nicholas
07/30/2019
Fitchburg State University is the kind of place you go when you don't want to go to college...or if you live in the area. Being a member of the latter group, I am constantly faced with classes in which no one cares. The professors are burned out like high school teachers, or honestly incompetent.
Jordan
07/17/2019
I am going into my second year at Fitchburg State University and I feel like the science program is one of the most thriving departments on campus. The dining hall hours could be better but overall it is a great school. I feel very safe with the emergency buttons all over campus as well as campus security frequently seen around campus.
Maddie
04/03/2019
Fitchburg State University is a great school for people looking for smaller class sizes. The campus is great, it is not to big but not too small. Its a perfect medium sized school. There is train station down the street that can take you right into Boston. The people here including faculty are very friendly and passionate about their work. Professors want you to do your best. There is always someone here that is ready and wanting to lend a helping hand. There is many sport teams that are division three, but sporting events are still fun to go to. There are many social events put on by the clubs, and associations. If there is not a club you want to join, make one! There are plenty of faculty that will help you.
Lindsay
02/05/2019
Fitchburg State University is my best and cheapest option since I live in Fitchburg. The class sizes are not too big and it is better since the professors can know each student a bit more. I personally love how Fitchburg State is associated with McKay Elementary since I am an education major. I have more opportunities to get field hours done. Overall the school is not too bad.
Katyana
10/17/2018
I absolutely love Fitchburg State. The classes are extremely interactive and the teachers are available and engaging. The classes are never boring, there’s tons of extra curricular activities and it offers programs to further education and career paths. There are so many resources from an on campus health center to police and counselors.
Kayla
10/12/2018
It is a great school. The campus is not too big but also not too small. There's always something to do on campus. The classes can be tough but everyone here wants you to succeed. Every staff or faculty here is so friendly and answer any questions you may have.
Magdiel Job Alarcon
07/29/2018
Fitchburg State University has a supportive faculty and I can't wait to begin my MBA in Management program in the Fall 2018 term! The MBA program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, which adds value to an already affordable program.
Shannon
04/18/2018
I am not a big fan of Fitchburg State University. The food is not very good in the dining hall and I have found plenty of hairs in my food. All of the offices that are meant to help students are not helpful at all. I was sent all over campus by different people who kept referring me to the wrong people many, many times.
Breanna
03/24/2018
I think that Fitchburg State University is a great school to attend, and I plan on enrolling in fall of 2018. when visiting the school, I really enjoyed how the environment was, and I felt safe just walking around alone. the campus was really easy to navigate, and I even had a chance to take the shuttle bus, which I have to say is extremely convenient. When visiting, I was able to go to the new athletic center that had just opened, with a nice training gym and a turf field inside, I feel so lucky to have such a great opportunity to train in a building like that. This is an amazing school, and I'm excited to spend my next four years there.
Abiglae
03/20/2018
This has been an excellent experience for me thus far. Professors are available, willing to interact and answer questions. I work with the disability services program and it has been very helpful to me in achieving good grades. I would strongly recommend this campus to anyone looking for a university that is on the small to medium size. friendly environment and positive culture overall.
Sterley
03/07/2018
Fitchburg State University is a remarkable school. I started the school in Fall 2017, and prior to that the way I made my decision is based of the school's credibility. I love the faculty, they offered me the best package. I love this school, the atmosphere, and the people here. I am at a home away from home.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Fitchburg State University is 74%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
The greatest advice I could give myself as a highschool senior would be to transfer schools and work harder. I had attended the same private school for my entire life. From kindergarten up to 12th grade I went to the school. As I reached highschool I soon noticed the level of education at the school was not up to the level I would have prefered. When I was a senior I did not care about school because it was so easy. I did not have to try and would get an A. This was noncondusive to my study habits and I have slipped into a state of full time senioritis. As I am in college now I have a harder time studying, so If i could go back I would force my parents to allow me the chance of altenate education. Which would have improved many things in my college education.
Any type of person could join this school. I would recommend it to anyone that I meet. It is a great campus where the teachers care about you and want you to have the best education you can. Anyone is welcome
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
The communication media program has a lot of excellent equipment. The teachers seem to be really good when you first meet them, but they definetely have their flaws.
Communications, is one of the main programs at my school. Nursing is also a big one that many kids apply to. I decided to go because I have heard from former students that the biology department was very good at Fitchburg State, and I have not been dissapointed.
The best thing about the school is that the teachers and advisors work very hard to match you up with the best possible internship. They do this because most places will hire their interns and your placement is very important.
My classmates at Fitchburg State University are very goal orientated. Being a prestigious teaching and nursing school, Fitchburg State University is known for their success rate in health related and early childhood learning programs. Most students are from the area in which the university is located, which proves that those who learn there are prideful and want to pursue their career in a way that benefits the local community. The student:professor ratio is 15:1, which enables each student to have hands on experiences in the classroom, as well as a close relationship with their professor.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Fitchburg State University may be a small school but we have a fully supportive staff that offers us an recieve an excellent education that I would not have received at a large university.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
How nice the faculty and students are. Also that the classes are pretty small so that the faculty are able to learn each students name and face individually. There are plenty of advisors of all kinds if a student is in need of help. The Recreational Center is nicely put together and very clean. Overall, the school is just really nice.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustating thing about Fitchburg State University is trying to juggle everything. In my freshman year, I didn't know how to juggle classes, homework, tutoring, work, sleep, and social time. It was hard but I eventually figured out that I just had to make a certain time for each thing. Making a planned schedule worked for me and it still does.
Some of the best things at this school are the people an the opportunities the school provides for you like life long friends and amazing internships. Some of the things that I think should change are some of the places on campus should have longer hours an more activities should be put in place so the student won't leave every weekend. The biggest controversy on campus would be the construction on campus which makes it harder to get to classes.
Most of the professors you meet at this school will learn your name an know you by face and that helps when you have one on ones with them. My favorite classes are the psychological classes. The least favorite are the math classes. Me and my friends have deep conversations outside of class all the time. In class students do participate in class discussions. When it's time for advising the advisor do make you focus on what you need to have for the type of Profession your going into. Some of the requirements the school makes you do I'm not to fond of but they do it so you become a well rounded person.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
There are tons of clubs on this campus that are about bettering the school or the community. The school has people come out to the school for entertainment like comedians and singers. I met my friends at a bsu party a year ago and that's how people usually meet each other. Last weekend everybody went home but when know ones out here you do study groups and you talk and listen to music.
It depends on your major but some of the classes I take I do enjoy. There about an Hour and 15min long but if you’re a science major the labs are long so I recommend you eat before class and study real hard.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
90% of students attending Fitchburg State University receive some sort of financial aid.
38% were awarded federal grants.76%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.