Research.com
Norfolk State University logo

Norfolk State University

700 Park Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23504, USA

Norfolk State University award
Norfolk State University award
US ranking
position: 1481
Tuition & fees per year: N/A
Acceptance rate: 87.00%
Median alumni salary: $36,917
Avg. SAT and ACT: 972 SAT, 18 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Moderate

What does Norfolk State University offer in terms of athletics?

Norfolk State University offers a robust athletics program that participates in NCAA Division I as a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). The university supports a range of men's and women's sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, track and field, volleyball, and tennis. Student-athletes have access to competitive opportunities and facilities that contribute to both their athletic and academic development.

The Spartans' football team competes at the Division I Football Championship Subdivision level, providing a platform for athletes aiming to excel at high levels of collegiate competition. Meanwhile, the basketball programs have gained recognition through conference play and participation in postseason tournaments.

Norfolk State emphasizes a balance between athletics and academics, encouraging student-athletes to perform well in the classroom as well as on the field. The university also fosters a community environment where sports play a vital role in campus life, helping to build school spirit and camaraderie among students, faculty, and alumni.

What student groups and Associations are available at Norfolk State University?

Norfolk State University offers a diverse range of student groups and associations to enhance the collegiate experience, although specific details regarding these organizations are not currently available. The university's student population includes approximately 1,645 men and 3,254 women, which reflects a varied campus community. While detailed information about particular clubs, social organizations, or participation rates is not provided, prospective students can anticipate opportunities consistent with institutions of similar size and scope.

Who studies at Norfolk State University?

Norfolk State University hosts a diverse student body with a total enrollment of approximately 1,817 new students annually, including 1,503 freshmen and 314 transfer students. Freshman enrollment ranks above average, placing the university in the top 40% for this category, while transfer student numbers are more modest, falling within the lower half nationally.

The age distribution among undergraduate students is broad, though the majority are traditional college-age individuals. Specifically, 2,271 undergraduates are aged 18 to 19, and 1,421 are between 20 and 21 years old. There is also a notable number of students beyond the typical undergraduate age range, with over 400 students aged 25 to 29 and more than 230 between 30 and 34. Graduate students are primarily older, with sizable groups in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, including 145 aged 22 to 24 and 74 in the 40 to 49 bracket. These figures indicate that Norfolk State University serves a wide age spectrum, from younger freshmen to mature graduate students.

Ethnic composition at Norfolk State University shows a pronounced majority of African American students, totaling 4,628 and ranking among the highest proportion nationally. Hispanic students number 279, while White students represent a smaller group of 109. Students identifying with two or more races account for 316 individuals, reflecting moderate diversity. Smaller populations include Native American and Asian students, with counts of 8 and 11 respectively. Other racial or ethnic categories and unknown classifications make up the remainder of the student body.

How does student life look like at Norfolk State University?

Student life at Norfolk State University reflects a moderately sized campus community with a total enrollment of around 6,045 students, which is considered average compared to other institutions. The university maintains a student-faculty ratio of 18 to 1, placing it in the top 20% for personalized academic attention, which may contribute positively to the classroom experience and student support.

The university employs a substantial staff, with 854 full-time and 856 part-time employees, indicating a robust support network for students. The number of full-time degree-seeking students stands at 1,414, with women representing a higher proportion than men, reflecting diversity in the student body composition.

While specific details about campus activities such as student media, arts, and wellness services are not available, the size of the campus suggests potential for a community atmosphere. Prospective students might expect an environment where staff presence is strong and class sizes allow for engagement, though information on extracurricular offerings and facilities remains limited.

What libraries are available to students at Norfolk State University?

Norfolk State University provides access to the Lymon Beecher Brooks Library as its main library facility. This library offers both physical and digital resources to support student learning and research activities. The institution maintains established hours, ensures trained staff are available to assist students, and provides access to shared collections, enhancing resource availability despite having only one library on campus. While the number of additional libraries and volumes ranks in the lower percentile compared to other institutions, students benefit from reliable library facilities that are designed to meet basic academic needs.

Norfolk State University Student Life for 2026

Total enrollment

6045

Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen

1414

Member of Athletic Associations

Data not available

Total staff

854 full time, 856 part time

Veterans affair office

No

Norfolk State University Library Services and Resources

Main library name

Lymon Beecher Brooks Library

Number of libraries on campus

1

Reservable study rooms in library

No

24h access

No

Physical facilities

Yes

Access to digital/electronic resources

Yes

Staff trained to provide and interpret library materials

Yes

Established library hours

Yes

Access to library collections that are shared with other institutions

Yes

Norfolk State University Computer Labs Access

  • 24h access
  • Help desk

Norfolk State University Student Life Enrollment Statistics

Freshmen vs. transfer students

Freshman
Transfer

Freshly enrolled students' age

Under 25 years
Over 25 years

Norfolk State University Location & Map