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Hofstra University

Hempstead, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Je maintiendrai (French) (Motto of the House of Orange-Nassau)("I will uphold")

Private research university
Type
6,155
Total Students
6,581
Undergrad
4,104
Graduate
$884M
Endowment
(2024)
$55K
Tuition (In-State)
$55K
Tuition (Out-State)
$35K
Avg Net Price
71%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
6-year
83%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Susan Poser

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Hofstra University

Hofstra: A Dynamic Private Research University with Rich Dutch Heritage.

Nestled on Long Island, Hofstra University stands as a prominent private research institution, offering a vibrant academic and student life deeply rooted in a unique Dutch heritage. With an endowment of nearly a billion dollars and a diverse student body exceeding 10,000, Hofstra provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for a complex global landscape. Its commitment to research, combined with a rich tapestry of professional schools, fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and innovation.

Founded in 1935 as an extension of New York University, Hofstra began on the estate of William S. Hofstra, a lumber entrepreneur of Dutch ancestry. From its inception as a coeducational commuter institution, Hofstra quickly gained independence, securing its provisional charter in 1937 and an absolute charter in 1940. The university's history is marked by a blend of academic pursuit and unique cultural contributions, including hosting the first Shakespeare Festival on an accurate Globe Theatre replica in 1950 and the inaugural NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship in 1971.

Academically, Hofstra boasts a wide array of strengths across its many schools and colleges, from the foundational Hofstra College of Liberal Arts & Sciences to specialized divisions like the Maurice A. Deane School of Law, Zucker School of Medicine, and the Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science. This breadth ensures that students have access to top-tier programs in fields from communication and business to health professions and public policy. The student experience is further enriched by Hofstra's proud Dutch roots, celebrated through its motto "Je maintiendrai," the distinctive campus architecture, the annual Dutch Festival, and themed residential complexes, creating a truly unique and engaging campus environment.

Key Highlights

  • A private research university with an endowment of $0.9 billion.
  • Serves a diverse student body of over 10,000 students.
  • Showcases a strong Dutch heritage with traditions like the Hofstra University Tulip and "The Netherlands" housing complex.
  • Home to the most accurate Globe Theatre replica in the United States, hosting its annual Shakespeare Festival since 1950.
  • Hosted the first-ever NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship game in 1971.
  • Offers comprehensive academic programs across 13 distinct professional schools and colleges, including Law, Medicine, and Engineering.

Timeline

1935
Founded as Nassau College – Hofstra Memorial of New York University.
1937
Provisional charter granted, and name changed to Hofstra College.
1939
Separated from New York University, influenced by the Dutch ambassador's flag for school colors and seal.
1940
Granted an absolute charter, becoming fully independent.
1950
Hosted the first Shakespeare Festival on a five-sixths-sized replica of the Globe Theatre.
1971
Served as the site for the first-ever NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship game.
1985
Presented with the Hofstra University Tulip, a flower hybrid named after the school.

Schools & Colleges

13 notable schools within Hofstra University

🎭

Hofstra College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

The foundational college offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs.

🏛️

Peter S. Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy, and International Affairs

Focuses on governance, public administration, and global relations.

📚

School of Education

Dedicated to training future educators and advancing pedagogical research.

🎭

School of Humanities, Fine and Performing Arts

Offers programs in literature, history, philosophy, and the creative arts.

🔬

School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Provides rigorous programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematical sciences.

💼

Frank G. Zarb School of Business

Offers comprehensive business education and prepares students for careers in finance, marketing, and management.

🏫

Stuart and Nancy Rabinowitz Honors College

Provides an enriched academic experience for high-achieving students.

⚖️

The Lawrence Herbert School of Communication

Focuses on journalism, public relations, film, television, and radio production.

🏫

School of Health Professions and Human Services

Prepares professionals for careers in health and human services fields.

⚙️

Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science

Offers programs in various engineering disciplines and applied sciences.

⚖️

Maurice A. Deane School of Law

Provides comprehensive legal education for aspiring lawyers and legal professionals.

🏥

Zucker School of Medicine

Offers advanced medical training and fosters research in health sciences.

💉

Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies

Provides graduate-level education for nursing and physician assistant students.

Leadership

President
Charles Riordan
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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