Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Old Dominion University
Virginia's R1 public research powerhouse, innovating in cybersecurity and health sciences.
Old Dominion University, located in vibrant Norfolk, Virginia, stands as a dynamic public research institution with a rich history of growth and innovation. Originally established in 1930 as a two-year extension of the College of William & Mary, ODU blossomed into an independent college in 1962 and achieved full university status in 1969, embodying Virginia's enduring spirit.
Known for its designation as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution, Old Dominion consistently pushes the boundaries of knowledge across its 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university is at the forefront of emerging fields, notably launching the nation's first School of Cybersecurity in 2020 and announcing plans for a new School of Data Science. This forward-thinking approach ensures students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
The student experience at ODU is enriched by a thriving community of over 23,400 students and a sprawling 250-acre main campus. With its recent merger with Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2024, forming the Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University, the institution is poised to make significant advancements in medical education and research. ODU continues to expand its impact, fostering a legacy of academic excellence and regional engagement.
Key Highlights
- ✦Designated an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
- ✦Home to the nation's first School of Cybersecurity, launched in 2020.
- ✦Offers 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across seven colleges and three schools.
- ✦Merged with Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2024, establishing the Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University.
- ✦Serves a diverse student body of over 23,400 students on a 250-acre main campus.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $0.4 billion, supporting its research and academic endeavors.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
5 notable schools within Old Dominion University
College of Arts and Letters
Offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the humanities, arts, and social sciences.
Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Formed in 2024 through the merger with Eastern Virginia Medical School, serving as the medical school component.
School of Data Science
A new school announced in 2022, planned to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
School of Cybersecurity
Launched in 2020 as the nation's first, offering B.S. degrees in Cybersecurity and Cyber Operations, and an M.S. in Cybersecurity.
Darden College of Education and Professional Studies
Offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs across six departments, preparing teachers for various secondary education fields.
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