Salem State University

Salem State University, located just 15 miles north of Boston, is one of the largest state universities in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and an important partner in the economic, cultural and intellectual vitality of the greater north-of-Boston region. Situated in the historic seacoast town of Salem, Massachusetts, Salem State provides a diverse community of learners a high quality, student-centered education; one that prepares them to contribute responsibly and creatively to a global society.

Salem State’s mission is to provide a high quality, student-centered education that prepares a diverse community of learners to contribute responsibly and creatively to a global society, and serve as a resource to advance the region’s cultural, social and economic development.

Salem State University will be a premier teaching university that engages students in an inspiring transformational educational experience.

• We put students first in all that we do and are committed to their success.
• We are a community of learners where all faculty, staff and students have the opportunity to grow as individuals.
• We are innovators, offering a unique brand of public higher education that inspires students to reach higher and achieve more.
• We remain true to our heritage as a liberal arts university while we prepare students for today’s workforce.
• We serve the communities of the North Shore while we create an ever more globally aware and culturally diverse campus environment.

The 2018-21 Salem State University strategic plan is the result of a transparent and inclusive campus-wide planning process led by the institution’s collaboration committee. The university takes pride in its gains towards the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education (BHE) system goals of college participation, college completion and closing achievement gaps. Of equal importance in accomplishing these goals has been a commitment to authentic teamwork, an openness to sincere dialogue, and the discernment and engagement required to undertake systemic change.