By Bill Johnson
Youngstown State University President

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – At Youngstown State University, our commitment to the city of Youngstown, the Mahoning Valley and the region is steadfast and unwavering. We don’t just serve this region; we ARE this region.

For well over a century, YSU has stood as a beacon of opportunity, evolving to meet the needs of our community. Just like our city, we are an institution built on grit. And, while others may come and go, attempting to stake their claim, we remain focused on what truly matters – empowering our students and strengthening our regional workforce as THE anchor institution of northeastern Ohio.

Recognizing the need for affordable, accessible, uninterrupted education, YSU has taken decisive action. In the wake of Eastern Gateway Community College’s closure, we’ve expanded our offerings to include more than 35 associate degree and certificate programs, providing our students with clear and attainable pathways to success. Offering two-year degrees, leading to a world of possibilities, we provide students flexible career pathways that can seamlessly transition into bachelor’s degrees. It’s education on our student’s terms, designed to unlock potential and opportunities at every career stage.

Affordability isn’t just a buzzword at YSU – it’s a promise. Our tuition rates for associate degrees are among the most competitive in the state, ensuring high-quality education remains within reach.

 Real degrees. Real campus. Real affordability. When students choose YSU, they aren’t compromising. They’re gaining access to world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus experience – all while benefitting from a tuition rate designed with their financial well-being in mind.

Yet the experience and benefits of a YSU education extend far beyond the classroom. Students are immersed in opportunities that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Our research partnerships, internships, and co-op experiences connect students directly with industry leaders. The result? Graduates who are not only job-ready but who stand out in a competitive job market.

We also understand that educational journeys are not one-size-fits-all. Life is dynamic, and students deserve flexibility. That’s why YSU’s associate degree programs are strategically aligned with our bachelor’s degree offerings. For those seeking to advance their education, the transition from an associate to a bachelor’s degree is seamless. It’s a choice that allows students to further specialize, increase their earning potential, and realize their fullest career aspirations.

Some suggest that with EGCC’s closure, a void exists in our region’s educational landscape. This couldn’t be further from the truth. There is no void when YSU stands firmly at the forefront. We are not a temporary fix. We are THE fix – an institution committed to adapting, evolving and leading.

So, to the students of the Mahoning Valley and beyond, I extend this invitation: Choose the path that offers more than just a credential. Choose a university that will challenge you, support you and celebrate your successes. Choose an institution comprised of faculty and staff that are invested in your future. Choose Youngstown State University.

YSU does not just offer an education. It provides an experience that will shape your life and the future of our region. And we’re just getting started!