Shaw University : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About Shaw University
Widely recognized as one of the earliest historically Black universities in the South, Shaw University sits in the heart of Raleigh with a close‑knit feel and a tradition of service. Students find a strong liberal arts core alongside career‑minded fields, taught by faculty known for mentoring and real‑world perspective. Modern classrooms, labs, studios, and a well‑used library are paired with tutoring, counseling, advising, and career support that feels practical, not perfunctory.
Campus life is lively and rooted in community. Student orgs, step shows, choir and band, and a spirited homecoming shape the year, while intramurals and fitness spaces keep things active. The culture leans welcoming, purposeful, and proud. Career prep is boosted by internships and connections across government, healthcare, education, and tech nearby. Raleigh's arts scene, food, and public life are right outside the gates. Distinctive traditions and a legacy of advocacy run deep here; civil rights organizer Ella Baker is among its notable alumni.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Shaw University with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in North Carolina. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Theology (3)
Theological Studies, Ministry Preparation and Religious Leadership
39.0401
Religious Education.
(PostBacCert)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
21-2021 | Directors, Religious Activities and Education | $65,040 | $84,640 | +$19,600 (+30.1%) |
25-1126 | Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary | $88,210 | $77,230 | -$10,980 (-12.4%) |
39.0602
Divinity/Ministry.
(PostBacCert)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
21-2011 | Clergy | $67,160 | $62,430 | -$4,730 (-7%) |
25-1126 | Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary | $88,210 | $77,230 | -$10,980 (-12.4%) |
39.0699
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.
(PostBacCert)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
21-2011 | Clergy | $67,160 | $62,430 | -$4,730 (-7%) |
21-2099 | Religious Workers, All Other | $49,830 | $38,020 | -$11,810 (-23.7%) |
25-1126 | Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary | $88,210 | $77,230 | -$10,980 (-12.4%) |
Business (2)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-1011 | Chief Executives | $262,930 | $245,590 | -$17,340 (-6.6%) |
11-1021 | General and Operations Managers | $133,120 | $95,470 | -$37,650 (-28.3%) |
11-2022 | Sales Managers | $160,930 | $122,190 | -$38,740 (-24.1%) |
11-3012 | Administrative Services Managers | $126,030 | $95,330 | -$30,700 (-24.4%) |
11-3013 | Facilities Managers | $114,520 | $100,820 | -$13,700 (-12%) |
11-3051 | Industrial Production Managers | $129,180 | $119,210 | -$9,970 (-7.7%) |
11-3071 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | $116,010 | $96,430 | -$19,580 (-16.9%) |
11-3111 | Compensation and Benefits Managers | $156,230 | $125,270 | -$30,960 (-19.8%) |
11-3121 | Human Resources Managers | $160,480 | $122,810 | -$37,670 (-23.5%) |
11-3131 | Training and Development Managers | $140,590 | $107,730 | -$32,860 (-23.4%) |
11-9021 | Construction Managers | $119,660 | $110,400 | -$9,260 (-7.7%) |
11-9072 | Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling | $87,060 | $77,210 | -$9,850 (-11.3%) |
11-9151 | Social and Community Service Managers | $86,100 | $74,450 | -$11,650 (-13.5%) |
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | $63,190 | -$7,430 (-10.5%) |
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $103,500 | -$46,390 (-30.9%) |
13-1051 | Cost Estimators | $83,160 | $68,490 | -$14,670 (-17.6%) |
13-1071 | Human Resources Specialists | $79,730 | $69,440 | -$10,290 (-12.9%) |
13-1081 | Logisticians | $87,600 | $71,950 | -$15,650 (-17.9%) |
13-1082 | Project Management Specialists | $108,100 | $85,450 | -$22,650 (-21%) |
13-1111 | Management Analysts | $114,710 | $89,890 | -$24,820 (-21.6%) |
13-1141 | Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | $82,920 | $68,530 | -$14,390 (-17.4%) |
13-1199 | Business Operations Specialists, All Other | $92,380 | $66,040 | -$26,340 (-28.5%) |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $99,870 | -$13,970 (-12.3%) |
52.0301
Accounting.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-2011 | Accountants and Auditors | $93,520 | $79,020 | -$14,500 (-15.5%) |
13-2022 | Appraisers of Personal and Business Property | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13-2031 | Budget Analysts | $93,920 | $76,080 | -$17,840 (-19%) |
13-2041 | Credit Analysts | $98,040 | $126,350 | +$28,310 (+28.9%) |
13-2054 | Financial Risk Specialists | $119,930 | $90,630 | -$29,300 (-24.4%) |
13-2061 | Financial Examiners | $103,650 | $95,210 | -$8,440 (-8.1%) |
13-2081 | Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents | $67,570 | $57,110 | -$10,460 (-15.5%) |
13-2082 | Tax Preparers | $58,860 | $57,490 | -$1,370 (-2.3%) |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $99,870 | -$13,970 (-12.3%) |
Kinesiology (2)
Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation
31.0101
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1193 | Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary | $87,980 | $74,260 | -$13,720 (-15.6%) |
31.0505
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
29-1128 | Exercise Physiologists | $59,620 | $53,900 | -$5,720 (-9.6%) |
Security & Safety (1)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
43.0104
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
19-4099 | Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other | $64,640 | N/A | N/A |
25-1111 | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,820 | $58,120 | -$26,700 (-31.5%) |
33-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | $82,260 | $58,460 | -$23,800 (-28.9%) |
33-1012 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $110,990 | $71,140 | -$39,850 (-35.9%) |
Education (4)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.1202
Elementary Education and Teaching.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $73,920 | -$4,580 (-5.8%) |
25-2021 | Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education | $69,790 | $50,640 | -$19,150 (-27.4%) |
13.1209
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $73,920 | -$4,580 (-5.8%) |
25-2011 | Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education | $41,450 | $31,810 | -$9,640 (-23.3%) |
25-2012 | Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education | $67,020 | $50,590 | -$16,430 (-24.5%) |
13.1210
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.
(PostBacCert)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $73,920 | -$4,580 (-5.8%) |
25-2011 | Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education | $41,450 | $31,810 | -$9,640 (-23.3%) |
25-2012 | Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education | $67,020 | $50,590 | -$16,430 (-24.5%) |
25-2021 | Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education | $69,790 | $50,640 | -$19,150 (-27.4%) |
25-9042 | Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-9043 | Teaching Assistants, Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13.9999
Education, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $73,920 | -$4,580 (-5.8%) |
25-3099 | Teachers and Instructors, All Other | $71,610 | $47,390 | -$24,220 (-33.8%) |
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101
Psychology, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $103,500 | -$46,390 (-30.9%) |
19-3032 | Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | $134,400 | N/A | N/A |
19-3033 | Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $106,850 | $80,980 | -$25,870 (-24.2%) |
19-3039 | Psychologists, All Other | $111,340 | $143,900 | +$32,560 (+29.2%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $49,390 | -$14,170 (-22.3%) |
25-1066 | Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary | $93,530 | $74,660 | -$18,870 (-20.2%) |
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0102
Mass Communication/Media Studies.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-2032 | Public Relations Managers | $163,520 | $122,560 | -$40,960 (-25%) |
25-1122 | Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | $90,340 | $69,870 | -$20,470 (-22.7%) |
27-3023 | News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $106,030 | $43,990 | -$62,040 (-58.5%) |
27-3041 | Editors | $85,700 | $73,950 | -$11,750 (-13.7%) |
27-3043 | Writers and Authors | $85,780 | $49,180 | -$36,600 (-42.7%) |
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-3021 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | $187,990 | $165,000 | -$22,990 (-12.2%) |
15-1211 | Computer Systems Analysts | $111,960 | $91,970 | -$19,990 (-17.9%) |
15-1221 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | $152,310 | $136,240 | -$16,070 (-10.6%) |
15-1241 | Computer Network Architects | $135,890 | $104,200 | -$31,690 (-23.3%) |
15-1242 | Database Administrators | $107,440 | $107,430 | -$10 (+-0%) |
15-1243 | Database Architects | $142,620 | $85,330 | -$57,290 (-40.2%) |
15-1244 | Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $101,190 | $82,700 | -$18,490 (-18.3%) |
15-1253 | Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | $110,260 | $79,700 | -$30,560 (-27.7%) |
15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $86,300 | -$25,150 (-22.6%) |
15-1299 | Computer Occupations, All Other | $116,700 | $86,250 | -$30,450 (-26.1%) |
25-1021 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,830 | $82,200 | -$23,630 (-22.3%) |
11.0701
Computer Science.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-3021 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | $187,990 | $165,000 | -$22,990 (-12.2%) |
15-1212 | Information Security Analysts | $127,730 | $105,480 | -$22,250 (-17.4%) |
15-1221 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | $152,310 | $136,240 | -$16,070 (-10.6%) |
15-1231 | Computer Network Support Specialists | $79,610 | $63,680 | -$15,930 (-20%) |
15-1243 | Database Architects | $142,620 | $85,330 | -$57,290 (-40.2%) |
15-1251 | Computer Programmers | $103,640 | $86,100 | -$17,540 (-16.9%) |
15-1252 | Software Developers | $144,570 | $113,570 | -$31,000 (-21.4%) |
15-1253 | Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | $110,260 | $79,700 | -$30,560 (-27.7%) |
15-1254 | Web Developers | $98,790 | $92,140 | -$6,650 (-6.7%) |
15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $86,300 | -$25,150 (-22.6%) |
15-1299 | Computer Occupations, All Other | $116,700 | $86,250 | -$30,450 (-26.1%) |
15-2051 | Data Scientists | $124,590 | $97,340 | -$27,250 (-21.9%) |
25-1021 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,830 | $82,200 | -$23,630 (-22.3%) |
11.1003
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-3021 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | $187,990 | $165,000 | -$22,990 (-12.2%) |
15-1212 | Information Security Analysts | $127,730 | $105,480 | -$22,250 (-17.4%) |
15-1231 | Computer Network Support Specialists | $79,610 | $63,680 | -$15,930 (-20%) |
15-1241 | Computer Network Architects | $135,890 | $104,200 | -$31,690 (-23.3%) |
15-1242 | Database Administrators | $107,440 | $107,430 | -$10 (+-0%) |
15-1243 | Database Architects | $142,620 | $85,330 | -$57,290 (-40.2%) |
15-1244 | Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $101,190 | $82,700 | -$18,490 (-18.3%) |
Biological Sciences (1)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
26.0101
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9121 | Natural Sciences Managers | $173,500 | $132,640 | -$40,860 (-23.6%) |
19-1029 | Biological Scientists, All Other | $100,440 | $75,570 | -$24,870 (-24.8%) |
19-1099 | Life Scientists, All Other | $101,940 | $126,070 | +$24,130 (+23.7%) |
19-4012 | Agricultural Technicians | $49,680 | $48,660 | -$1,020 (-2.1%) |
19-4013 | Food Science Technicians | $54,400 | $50,150 | -$4,250 (-7.8%) |
19-4021 | Biological Technicians | $58,020 | $53,940 | -$4,080 (-7%) |
19-4092 | Forensic Science Technicians | $75,260 | $44,600 | -$30,660 (-40.7%) |
25-1042 | Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $101,340 | $69,310 | -$32,030 (-31.6%) |
25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $51,640 | -$22,060 (-29.9%) |
Social Sciences (2)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $103,500 | -$46,390 (-30.9%) |
19-3094 | Political Scientists | $137,600 | N/A | N/A |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $49,390 | -$14,170 (-22.3%) |
25-1065 | Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,160 | $82,120 | -$23,040 (-21.9%) |
25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $51,640 | -$22,060 (-29.9%) |
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | North Carolina Avg | NC vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $103,500 | -$46,390 (-30.9%) |
19-3041 | Sociologists | $111,670 | $107,520 | -$4,150 (-3.7%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $49,390 | -$14,170 (-22.3%) |
25-1067 | Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary | $97,270 | $65,850 | -$31,420 (-32.3%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Shaw University
How much does it cost to attend Shaw University?
The annual tuition at Shaw University is $17,272 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $30,952 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $8,940 (on) / $8,100 (off) and books and supplies $1,300.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Shaw University offer?
Shaw University offers 26 academic programs across 14 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Master's.
Most popular program areas include:
- Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (4 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (3 programs)
- Theological Studies, Ministry Preparation and Religious Leadership (3 programs)
- Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation (2 programs)
- Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for Shaw University?
Shaw University has an 30.5% acceptance rate and a 5.7% yield rate, making it highly selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
- Total applicants: 10,699
- Students admitted: 3,261
- Students enrolled: 186
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Shaw University?
Shaw University provides financial aid to 21% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $15,568 and average loans of $5,811.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,786
- State/Local grants: $5,871
- Institutional grants: $7,688
- Federal loans: $5,425
The university supports 188 students with grants and 101 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Shaw University graduates?
Shaw University graduates earn a median salary of $26,148 after 6 years and $34,409 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $18,004 (25th percentile) to $49,938 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $54,900 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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