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Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY

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Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1957
Founded
Public research university center
Type
17,420
Total Students
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$30K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
49%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Graduation Rate
6-year
89%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Stony Brook University

A powerhouse public research university, driving innovation and shaping futures on Long Island.

Stony Brook University stands as a beacon of public higher education and research, proudly recognized as one of the two flagship institutions within the State University of New York (SUNY) system. From its humble beginnings in Oyster Bay in 1957 as the State University College on Long Island (SUCOLI), it quickly evolved, moving to its sprawling 1,454-acre campus in Stony Brook by 1962. Initially focused on teacher preparation, the university broadened its scope under early leadership, transforming into a comprehensive institution with robust liberal arts programs alongside its strong foundation in science and engineering.

Today, Stony Brook is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," a testament to its profound impact on scientific discovery and academic advancement. A key differentiator is its unique partnership with Battelle, through which it co-manages the prestigious Brookhaven National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy. This collaboration underscores its commitment to cutting-edge research, attracting top-tier faculty and providing unparalleled opportunities for students.

Academically, Stony Brook boasts a legacy of excellence, exemplified by chemistry professor Paul Lauterbur's Nobel Prize win in 2003 for his pivotal work in developing MRI technology while at the university. The campus experience is vibrant, supported by continuous investment in state-of-the-art facilities like the Charles B. Wang Center for Asian and American culture, modern recreation centers, and updated athletic venues. With a diverse student body and a commitment to fostering an engaging environment, Stony Brook offers a dynamic setting where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally, preparing them for leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Key Highlights

  • One of two flagship institutions in the State University of New York (SUNY) system.
  • Classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
  • Jointly manages Brookhaven National Laboratory, a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, with Battelle.
  • Member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), recognizing its strong system of research and education.
  • Nobel laureate Paul Lauterbur conducted his Nobel Prize-winning research on MRI development at Stony Brook.
  • Largest single-site employer on Long Island, with over 15,000 employees.
  • Received a landmark $150 million donation from hedge funder Jim Simons in 2011, among other significant philanthropic gifts.

Timeline

1957
Established in Oyster Bay as the State University College on Long Island (SUCOLI).
1961
Held its first commencement, conferring degrees to 30 students.
1962
Institution moved to its current location in Stony Brook, New York.
1998
Chosen by the Department of Energy to jointly operate Brookhaven National Laboratory.
2001
Enrollment reached 20,000 students and received an invitation to the Association of American Universities (AAU).
2002
Opened the $22 million Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium and the $50 million Charles B. Wang Center.
2003
Chemistry professor Paul Lauterbur received a Nobel Prize for his research instrumental in MRI development.
2011
Received a landmark $150 million donation from Jim Simons, the largest private donation to a SUNY institution at the time.
2012
Opened the $40 million Walter J. Hawrys Campus Recreation Center.
2019
Stony Brook Medicine opened its $194 million cancer center.
🏛️
69 Years
of Excellence

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