About Hampton University
Hampton University is one of America's top historically black universities, drawing 3,254 students to its suburban Virginia campus. The school has built its reputation on strong programs in business, nursing, and communications. Notable graduates include actress Taraji P. Henson and comedian Wanda Sykes, reflecting the university's reach across professional fields. With a 74% acceptance rate, Hampton welcomes students ready to meet its academic standards.
The financial picture tells a story of investment and return. Students pay an average net price of $32,145 after aid, with typical monthly loan payments of $270 after graduation. Graduates earn a median of $59,159 ten years out, making the investment worthwhile for most students. About 38% receive Pell Grants, showing Hampton serves students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Hampton's student body is overwhelmingly female at 68% and almost entirely Black at 98%, creating a unique campus environment. The Pirates compete in NCAA Division I athletics with 17 varsity sports and $6.6 million in athletic scholarships. With 84% of students returning for sophomore year, most find what they're looking for in Hampton's blend of academic rigor and cultural identity.
The financial picture tells a story of investment and return. Students pay an average net price of $32,145 after aid, with typical monthly loan payments of $270 after graduation. Graduates earn a median of $59,159 ten years out, making the investment worthwhile for most students. About 38% receive Pell Grants, showing Hampton serves students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Hampton's student body is overwhelmingly female at 68% and almost entirely Black at 98%, creating a unique campus environment. The Pirates compete in NCAA Division I athletics with 17 varsity sports and $6.6 million in athletic scholarships. With 84% of students returning for sophomore year, most find what they're looking for in Hampton's blend of academic rigor and cultural identity.
Academics & Faculty
Hampton University stands among the nation's top HBCUs with a reputation built on excellence in business, nursing, and communications programs. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio creates an environment where professors know students personally and provide intensive mentoring. About 51% of students graduate within four years, reflecting the university's rigorous academic standards and full support systems. Hampton's nursing program consistently produces healthcare leaders, while its business school prepares students for corporate success. The communications department has launched numerous media careers, including notable alumni like actress Taraji P. Henson. With 85% of students returning each year, Hampton creates a tight-knit academic community where students push each other toward excellence.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 50.5%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.7%
- Retention Rate
- 84.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $59,159
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $117,140 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $72,727 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $63,749 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $63,005 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $61,859 |
| Architecture. | Master | $42,682 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $40,896 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $40,485 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,369 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $36,992 |
Campus Life
Hampton's waterfront campus sits on the Chesapeake Bay, giving students stunning harbor views from dorms and classrooms. About 66% of Hampton's 3,254 students live on campus in residence halls that house up to 2,150 students. The campus buzzes with HBCU pride and tradition, from homecoming festivities that draw alumni from across the country to step shows that showcase Greek life culture.
Virginia's mild climate means you'll need a light jacket for winter but can enjoy outdoor activities most of the year. Students often gather at the waterfront for impromptu cookouts or study sessions. Norfolk and Virginia Beach are just 20 minutes away, offering internship opportunities and weekend beach trips. With women making up 67.7% of the student body, Hampton has a active sorority culture alongside its strong athletic programs. The Pirates compete in 17 Division I sports with $6.6 million in athletic scholarships. Weekend activities range from stepping on the yard to exploring nearby Colonial Williamsburg or catching concerts in Norfolk's downtown district.
Virginia's mild climate means you'll need a light jacket for winter but can enjoy outdoor activities most of the year. Students often gather at the waterfront for impromptu cookouts or study sessions. Norfolk and Virginia Beach are just 20 minutes away, offering internship opportunities and weekend beach trips. With women making up 67.7% of the student body, Hampton has a active sorority culture alongside its strong athletic programs. The Pirates compete in 17 Division I sports with $6.6 million in athletic scholarships. Weekend activities range from stepping on the yard to exploring nearby Colonial Williamsburg or catching concerts in Norfolk's downtown district.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 2,150 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1984
Campus Safety (2023)
15 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 34°–49°F
- July Avg
- 72°–88°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 0.0"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
Hampton draws ambitious students from across the nation, with 84% coming from outside Virginia to attend this strong HBCU. The student body of 3,254 is overwhelmingly African American, reflecting the university's mission as a historically black institution. Women make up two-thirds of enrollment, drawn largely to Hampton's well-known nursing and communications programs. With 38% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university serves many first-generation college students seeking upward mobility. The 85% retention rate shows students find the supportive HBCU environment they're seeking at this "Standard of Excellence" institution.
- Men
- 32.3%
- Women
- 67.7%
- White
- 0.4%
- Black
- 97.6%
- Hispanic
- 0.5%
- Asian
- 0.1%
- In-State Students
- 16.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 38.1%
Location
Hampton sits in coastal Virginia, about 20 miles from Norfolk and Virginia Beach. The university draws 84% of its students from out of state to this waterfront city near the Chesapeake Bay. Hampton Roads is a major military region with Naval Station Norfolk and Langley Air Force Base nearby. Students enjoy access to beaches and the historic colonial area of Williamsburg just 30 minutes away. The 204-acre campus overlooks the Hampton River in a suburban setting that balances small-town feel with big-city amenities. With 67% of the 3,254 students being women, the campus maintains strong community connections in this military-influenced coastal region. Students considering colleges in Virginia may also compare Hampton University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Hampton, Virginia 23668-0099
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $59,159
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $59,105
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $37,700
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 42.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $270/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,442
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Hampton University?
Hampton University accepts 74% of applicants, making it moderately selective for prospective students. The average SAT score is 1030, with middle 50% scores ranging from 840 to 1220.
How much does Hampton University cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Hampton University is $32,145 annually across all income levels. Students typically graduate with $25,442 in median debt, while 38% receive Pell Grant assistance.
What is Hampton University known for academically?
Hampton University maintains a 15:1 student-faculty ratio and is recognized as one of the top historically black universities. The school has built a strong reputation in business, nursing, and communications programs.
What are the career outcomes for Hampton University graduates?
Hampton University graduates earn a median salary of $59,159 ten years after graduation with a 94.4% employment rate. However, the 6-year graduation rate is 56%, which is lower than many peer institutions.
Where is Hampton University located and what is campus life like?
Hampton University sits in Hampton, Virginia, a large suburban setting near the Chesapeake Bay. With 2,150 students living in campus housing and 17 NCAA Division I sports teams, the Pirates compete in the Coastal Athletic Association.
What makes Hampton University unique as an HBCU?
Hampton University serves a student body that is 98% Black with women comprising 68% of enrollment. The historically black university draws students from across the nation, with only 16% coming from Virginia, creating a diverse national community.
