About Holy Names University
Students receive substantial financial support with an average institutional grant of $33,236 per year. This generous aid package reflects the university's mission to make Catholic education accessible regardless of economic background. The school prioritizes affordability while maintaining small class sizes that foster close relationships between students and faculty.
Holy Names attracts students who value faith-based learning combined with social activism. The university's Oakland location provides access to internships and service opportunities in the diverse Bay Area community. Students often pursue careers in education, social work, and nonprofit leadership after graduation. The campus culture emphasizes collaboration over competition, creating an environment where students support each other's growth both academically and spiritually.
Campus Life
With 94% of students coming from California, the campus feels distinctly local. The small student body creates an intimate environment where professors know your name. Most students commute from nearby communities rather than living on campus. Weekend activities often center around the school's social justice mission, with students volunteering in Oakland's diverse neighborhoods.
The university's Catholic identity shapes campus culture through service learning and community engagement. Students frequently take advantage of the Bay Area's cultural offerings, heading to San Francisco for museums, concerts, or internships. The average institutional grant of $33,236 makes this private education more accessible to working-class families. Campus traditions blend Catholic heritage with the progressive values of the surrounding Bay Area.
- Founded
- 1868
Location
- Address
- Oakland, California 94619-1699
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Holy Names University?
Holy Names University accepts 100% of applicants who apply. This open admission policy reflects the Catholic institution's commitment to providing educational opportunities to all students seeking a values-based liberal arts education.
How much financial aid does Holy Names University typically provide?
Students receive an average institutional grant of $33,236 per year. The university's generous financial aid reflects its mission to make Catholic higher education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
What academic programs is Holy Names University known for?
The university emphasizes liberal arts education with a strong focus on social justice values. Founded in 1868, Holy Names has built its reputation on preparing students for careers in service-oriented fields while integrating Catholic teachings into the curriculum.
Where do most Holy Names University students come from?
About 94% of students are California residents, making it primarily a regional institution. The Oakland location attracts students who want to stay close to home while attending a small Catholic university in the diverse Bay Area.
Is Holy Names University a large or small school?
Holy Names operates as a small Catholic university focused on personalized attention and close student-faculty relationships. The intimate campus environment allows for mentorship opportunities and strong community connections that larger universities cannot provide.
What makes Holy Names University's location in Oakland unique?
The Oakland campus places students in one of California's most culturally diverse cities with easy access to San Francisco. This urban setting provides internship opportunities while aligning with the university's social justice mission through community engagement and service learning.
