hampton university vs norfolk state

Hampton University vs Norfolk State University

Strength by Subject & World Rankings (2025/2026)

Hampton University, a privately established historically Black university (HBCU) in 1868, is nationally ranked for solid programs in Business, Nursing, Pharmacy, Journalism, and Marine & Environmental Science. It is ranked among the top 20 HBCUs by U.S. News and is nationally ranked for STEM and health sciences. Norfolk State University (NSU), a state HBCU established in 1935, is particularly well-represented in Social Work, Cybersecurity, Business, and Liberal Arts. It is also a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense as designated by the NSA and DHS. Neither school is listed on QS or THE global rankings, but Hampton tends to have more national prestige than Norfolk State in general.

General Information

Hampton University is in Hampton, Virginia, and educates approximately 3,300 students in a private, residential, and intimate academic setting. Norfolk State University, which is also in Virginia (Norfolk), educates a larger number of students, an estimated 5,200 students, with a public-university environment that offers wider access and affordability. Hampton focuses on tradition, heritage, and academic demands in a private environment, whereas Norfolk State focuses on accessibility, diversity, and community involvement as part of the Virginia state system.

Acceptance Rate & Admission

Hampton University's acceptance rate is approximately 36%, which makes it a more selective HBCU, with the average admitted students having GPAs of 3.3–3.6 and SAT scores of 1050–1200. Norfolk State University is less selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 90%, with a very diverse group of students being admitted, having average GPAs of 2.8–3.2 and SAT scores of 900–1050. Hampton is more competitive and academically challenging at the point of entry, whereas NSU allows more educational access.

Research Impact & Facilities

Hampton University is known to have significant research expertise in aerospace, atmospheric science, and cancer research, with collaborations at NASA Langley Research Center. Some of the facilities include the Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute, which is one of the largest cancer treatment facilities of its type. Norfolk State excels in applied research and workforce development, especially in cybersecurity, data science, and social sciences, with centers like the Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research. Hampton focuses on advanced STEM and medical research, whereas NSU concentrates on applied and community-based research.

Cost & Financial Aid

Being a private university, Hampton is more expensive at around $30,000 per year, with total annual expenses around $45,000 with room and board. Norfolk State, being a public university, is less expensive: in-state students pay around $9,300 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $20,000. Both institutions offer financial assistance, but Hampton has more merit scholarships, whereas NSU enjoys support from the state that makes it extra budget-friendly for Virginia residents.

Graduate Studies and Research

Hampton University alumni often enter business, health sciences, STEM, and media professions with mid-career earnings of approximately $65,000 (INR 54 lakh). Norfolk State graduates tend to enter social work, public service, education, business, and business intelligence with mid-career earnings of up to $55,000 (INR 45 lakh). Hampton's alumni network is smaller but more elite in some fields such as journalism and science, whereas NSU's alumni network is strongest in local industries and public service.