Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Seton Hall University
America's oldest diocesan university, Seton Hall combines Catholic heritage with high research and Pirate pride.
Seton Hall University stands as a distinguished private Catholic research institution, proudly holding the title of America's oldest diocesan university. Founded in 1856 by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley and named after Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, its deep-rooted history is woven with resilience, having overcome challenges like campus fires while continuously expanding its academic offerings. Today, Seton Hall is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," signifying its commitment to significant research contributions.
Prospective students considering Seton Hall will discover a vibrant campus life in South Orange, New Jersey, home to nearly 9,500 students. The university is renowned for its competitive spirit, most notably through its men's basketball team, whose thrilling run to the 1989 NCAA Division I final brought national recognition and a surge in applications. This athletic prowess complements a strong academic environment that fosters both intellectual and personal growth.
Academically, Seton Hall is comprised of nine schools and colleges, offering a broad spectrum of programs from the liberal arts to professional studies. The institution made history in 1937 with the first matriculation of women and became fully coeducational in 1968, reflecting a progressive spirit. Its pioneering School of Law, established in 1951, notably featured the nation's first woman dean of law, Miriam Rooney, underscoring Seton Hall's commitment to leadership and breaking barriers. With its rich heritage, dedication to research, and a spirited student body, Seton Hall prepares its "Pirates" for impactful careers and lives of purpose.
Key Highlights
- ✦America's Oldest Diocesan University, founded on September 1, 1856.
- ✦Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
- ✦Home to the Seton Hall Pirates, famous for their men's basketball team's run to the 1989 NCAA Division I final.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $351.8 million as of 2024.
- ✦Educates 9,529 students (Fall 2023), including 6,109 undergraduates and 3,420 postgraduates.
- ✦A pioneer in gender inclusivity, with the first matriculation of women in 1937 and full coeducation by 1968.
- ✦Its School of Law opened in 1951 and appointed Miriam Rooney as the first woman dean of law in the United States.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
5 notable schools within Seton Hall University
College of Arts and Sciences
A foundational college, part of the university's formation in 1950, offering a wide range of liberal arts programs.
School of Business
One of the original schools established when Seton Hall was organized into a university in 1950.
School of Nursing
Among the initial professional schools formed when Seton Hall became a university in 1950.
School of Education
Established as part of the university's formation in 1950, dedicated to preparing future educators.
School of Law
Opened its doors in 1951, making history with Miriam Rooney serving as the first woman dean of law in the United States.
Find Scholarships at Seton Hall University
Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.
Start Your Free Search