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Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA

publicHBCUgraduate

Quick Facts

On seal: "Achievement, Citizenship" "We See the Future in You"

Wikipedia
1935
Founded
Public historically black university
Type
5,495
Total Students
5,000
Undergrad
616
Graduate
$110M
Endowment
(2025)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$21K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
87%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Graduation Rate
6-year
72%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University: Forging futures with an HBCU legacy of achievement and community.

Norfolk State University, a proud public Historically Black University (HBCU) established in 1935, is a beacon of "Achievement and Citizenship," committed to seeing "the Future in You." With a current enrollment of 5,616 students, NSU offers a dynamic academic environment rooted in a rich history and a vibrant "Spartan" spirit. It's a place where students are encouraged to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The journey of Norfolk State began humbly as a unit of Virginia Union University, overcoming challenges to achieve independence in 1942 as Norfolk Polytechnic College. Its path continued with integration into Virginia State College before emerging as an autonomous institution, Norfolk State College, in 1969, gaining full accreditation the same year. This foundational resilience culminated in 1979 when it proudly earned university status, becoming the Norfolk State University we know today, continually expanding its reach and impact.

Academically, NSU has consistently grown, offering its first bachelor's degrees in 1956 and expanding to master's programs in fields like Communications and Social Work by the mid-1970s. The university fosters a robust student experience, personified by the spirited "Spartan" identity adopted in 1952. Recent philanthropic support, including a historic $50 million gift from MacKenzie Scott, underscores NSU's growing recognition as an institution shaping leaders and innovators for tomorrow.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1935, it stands as a prominent Public Historically Black University (HBCU) dedicated to "Achievement, Citizenship."
  • Current enrollment stands at 5,616 students, embodying a vibrant and diverse academic community.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission and student success.
  • Received its largest single gift in history: $50 million from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2025 (preceded by a $40 million gift in 2020).
  • First granted bachelor's degrees in 1956 and master's degrees in Communications (1975) and Social Work (1976).
  • Adopted the enduring "Spartan" identity for its athletic teams and spirit in 1952.
  • Achieved university status and its current name, Norfolk State University, in 1979.

Timeline

1935
Founded as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University.
1942
Became independent and named Norfolk Polytechnic College.
1944
Became part of Virginia State College.
1952
Athletic teams adopted the "Spartan" name and identity.
1956
Granted its first bachelor's degrees.
1969
Divided from Virginia State College, named Norfolk State College, and received accreditation.
1975
Awarded its first master's degree (in Communications).
1979
Granted university status and renamed Norfolk State University.
2020
Received a $40 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
2025
Received a $50 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the largest in its history.
🏛️
91 Years
of Excellence

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