Hofstra University

Hempstead, New York, United States · Est. 1935 · Research University

Private research university near NYC with medicine, law, and engineering schools, hosting three presidential debates.

  • Founded September 23, 1935, originally as NYU extension; became independent in 1939
  • Private research university with 10,685 students (6,581 undergraduates, 4,104 postgraduates)
  • Located in Hempstead, New York, 25 miles east of NYC on 244 acres
  • Comprises 13 schools including Zucker School of Medicine, Maurice A. Deane School of Law, and engineering programs
  • Hosted three consecutive U.S. presidential debates (2008, 2012, 2016)
  • Offers 185 undergraduate and 170 graduate program options across 28 accredited academic areas

Academics

Hofstra offers 185 undergraduate and 170 graduate programs through 13 schools and colleges. The university is accredited in 28 academic areas and holds an R2 designation as a High Research Spending and Doctorate Production University. Notable schools include the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine (established 2011, ranked Tier 3 in primary care and Tier 2 in research by U.S. News), the Maurice A. Deane School of Law, and the Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science. The Stuart and Nancy Rabinowitz Honors College serves high-achieving students with more selective admissions.

Campus & Student Life

The 244-acre campus in Hempstead features approximately 117 buildings and is designated as an arboretum with diverse trees and thousands of spring tulips. The campus includes historic Gilded Age mansions repurposed as administrative offices, the Hofstra University Museum of Art with 70+ outdoor sculptures, and residence halls named after Dutch cities reflecting the university's Dutch heritage. Located 7 miles from Queens, the campus offers proximity to NYC internships and cultural opportunities while maintaining a suburban setting with green spaces. Athletic teams compete as the Pride in NCAA Division I FCS within the CAA.

Admissions

Hofstra maintains a test-optional admissions policy. For the 2024 entering cohort, 29% of enrollees submitted standardized test scores, with average SAT scores of 1310–1400 and ACT scores of 30–32. The university admitted 68% of applicants, with enrolled students averaging a 3.7 GPA. The institution offers pathways for first-year undergraduates, transfer students, graduate students, and international applicants, with specialized admissions for the School of Law and School of Medicine.

Outcomes & Recognition

Hofstra is ranked 183rd among national universities by U.S. News & World Report and 292nd by Forbes. The university reports 92% of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or pursuing other productive outcomes. The institution maintains a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and has an alumni network of 150,000+ providing internship and career connections. Hofstra has been recognized as a nationally and internationally ranked institution receiving prestigious awards annually.

Founded
1935
Type
Research University
Courses
13
Total intake
Not yet verified
Websitehttps://www.hofstra.edu/
HousingAvailable
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
13
Avg career outcomes
Not yet verified
92% placed
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
Yes
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources