Youngstown State University, a comprehensive, public, not-for-profit institution, is a major driver of the region’s economy and plays an enormous role in the educational, financial, and social well-being of Northeast Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and beyond. With nearly 11,000 students, more than 1,500 employees and nearly 113,000 alumni around the world, YSU embraces the important role it plays in enhancing the futures of our students by empowering them to discover, disseminate, and apply their knowledge. Now entering its 115th year, Youngstown State University remains committed to increasing excellence in all that we do and to providing the leadership and opportunities needed to make our region a better place to live, learn, and succeed.

YSU’s origins trace to 1908, when the local branch of the YMCA established a school of law within the Youngstown Association School. Over the next six decades, the school was transformed into the Youngstown Institute of Technology, Youngstown College, Youngstown University, and finally to Youngstown State University in 1967, when it became part of the Ohio state system. As the Mahoning and Shenango valleys have emerged from their industrial past, the university is viewed now more than ever as a major catalyst for the future, attracting faculty and staff to the area, providing economic stimulus, serving as a leader in workforce education and innovation, and producing energetic, talented graduates ready to make their mark on the region and the world.

YSU is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission. YSU’s accreditation has been affirmed through the year 2027 with the last HLC site visit having occurred in 2018.