Hampton University

Overview & Academics

Hampton University is a private, not-for-profit, historically Black university (HBCU) located in Hampton, Virginia. Founded in 1868, it is renowned for its legacy of academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to the African-American community. The university offers a comprehensive slate of programs, including certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across diverse fields such as business, engineering, nursing, journalism, pharmacy, and the liberal arts.
Admissions
- Application Deadlines: Regular Decision (March 1), Early Action (November 1)
- Application Requirements: Completed application, official transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT—test-optional for many applicants), essay, and letters of recommendation
- Holistic review process; considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal character
Cost
- Undergraduate Tuition (2023-2024): Approximately $29,312 per year
- Room and Board: Approximately $12,466 per year
- Fees & Expenses: Books, supplies, and other fees average $2,550–$3,000 per year
- Financial aid available through federal, state, institutional, and private scholarships and grants
Student Population
- Total Enrollment: Approximately 3,300–3,500 students
- Undergraduate Students: ~2,800
- Graduate Students: ~700
- Diverse student body representing over 49 states and 35 countries
Rankings & Distinctions
- Recognized as one of the top HBCUs in the United States
- Consistently ranked in the top tier of regional universities in the South
- Praised for programs in business, pharmacy, journalism, and nursing
- Designated as a “Community Engaged Institution” by the Carnegie Foundation
Campus & Culture
- Picturesque 314-acre campus on the waterfront of the Hampton River
- National Historic Landmark district with landmark buildings, historic Emancipation Oak, and the Hampton University Museum (nation’s oldest African American museum)
- Residential campus with dormitories, dining halls, recreational facilities, and wellness centers
- Inclusivity and cultural pride are hallmarks of student life and academic experience
Athletics & Traditions
- NCAA Division I – Member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA)
- “Pirates” athletic teams in sports including football, basketball, track, softball, and more
- Rich traditions such as Homecoming, Founder’s Day, and Battle of the Bay rivalry games
- School mascot: Pirate; school colors: Blue and White
Mission

Hampton University is dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character, and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. The institution has a special commitment to the education of African Americans while serving students of diverse backgrounds in keeping with its multicultural heritage.
Leadership & Current Developments
- President: Darrell K. Williams (since 2022)
- Recent investments in science, technology, and innovation, including the Proton Therapy Institute
- Ongoing campus upgrades and new initiatives to expand STEM, business, and health fields
- Enhanced online and hybrid learning options in response to modern educational trends
Programs
- Colleges & Schools:
  - School of Business
  - School of Engineering & Technology
  - School of Liberal Arts & Education
  - School of Nursing
  - School of Science
  - School of Pharmacy
  - Honors College
  - Graduate College
- Popular Majors: Biology, Nursing, Business Administration, Journalism, Computer Science, Psychology
- Research & Internships: Active research programs and partnerships with governmental agencies and the private sector
Campus Life
- Vibrant residential life with themed residence halls and living-learning communities
- On-campus concerts, festivals, step shows, and cultural celebrations
- Focus on leadership development, character building, and community engagement
Student Organizations
- Over 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, fraternities, sororities, student government, and professional societies
- Active National Pan-Hellenic Council and Divine Nine chapters
- Performing arts groups, media outlets (radio, newspaper, TV), business and STEM societies
Admission Stats
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 36%
- Freshman Retention Rate: About 76%
- Average SAT (middle 50%): 990–1170
- Average ACT (middle 50%): 19–26
- Most incoming freshmen have a high school GPA between 3.0–3.6
- Priority given to applicants demonstrating academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to service