The Area: Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Salem College sits in the heart of a vibrant mid-size metro area, known for its history, arts scene, and growing innovation sectors. With easy access to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the beaches of North Carolina, outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring. The campus is approximately 30 minutes from the Piedmont Triad International Airport, and about an hour and a half from the larger Raleigh-Durham airport.
The Town: Salem College is situated in the historic Old Salem district with the campus virtually indistinguishable from the abutting Salem Museum (an active living history museum). The larger city of Winston-Salem, with a population of over 250,000, provides students with ample entertainment, dining, and internship opportunities. From coffee shops and local boutiques to art galleries and music venues, students can enjoy both the quaint charm of Old Salem and the bustling energy of downtown Winston-Salem, which is just a short walk or drive away.
The Campus/Students: Founded in 1772, Salem College is the oldest continuously operating educational institution for women in the United States and was originally the sister school of Davidson College. The campus also houses Salem Academy, a day and boarding school for girls. The picturesque campus is compact, historic (records show George Washington visiting the campus), and beautifully maintained, abutting downtown Winston-Salem.
With only 500 students total, Salem students enjoy a personalized education experience with small class sizes and close relationships with faculty.
Although primarily a women’s college for undergraduates, Salem also welcomes men in its graduate and continuing education programs. Student life includes a variety of clubs, leadership opportunities, and traditions such as Fall Fest and Founders Day. Athletics are part of campus culture, with Salem competing in NCAA Division III sports.
Salem students have the unique opportunity to take classes at Wake Forest University at no additional cost; they receive a Wake Forest student ID and can hop on a shuttle to travel between campuses. Students can also participate in Wake Forest University’s band, color guard, and other extracurriculars.
Academics: Salem College prides itself on being a liberal arts institution with a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and interdisciplinary learning. The school recently underwent major changes (including cutting majors and getting a new president), shifting its overall focus to Health Care Leadership, with 30% of students going into health-related fields. Additionally, 75% of students double major or add a minor. Popular majors include business administration, education, health sciences, psychology, and creative arts.
Other notable academic opportunities include:
Health Leadership Lab opened in Fall 2023
4+1 Programs allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years
Community service initiatives integrated into coursework
Integrative Studies Program, allowing students to build their own major
- Direct nursing pathway with new (Feb 2025) partnership with Winston-Salem State University (ABSN degree)
- Online Master of Health Administration program
Cost: The direct cost of attendance for 2025-26 (tuition, room and board) is approximately $49,000. However, nearly 100% of students receive some form of aid, including merit scholarships, need-based grants, and work-study opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are awarded upon acceptance; the average award is $22,000.
Salem College offers a college experience that is strong in sisterhood with a focus on leadership and service, particularly in health-related fields. Visit Salem College’s website to learn more and see if it’s the right fit for you.