Norfolk State University can trace its heritage back to 1935, when the historically black college first emerged as a unit of Virginia Union University. With a campus located on a former city golf course, the school became independent and earned its university status by 1979. Today, students engage in the urban university’s mission of service through rigorous academic programs that emphasize community involvement. Business, engineering, social work, and education programs complement this black college’s strong liberal arts foundation.

Faculty and staff at Norfolk State University echo the school’s commitment to developing sound minds as well as strong bodies. Olympic medalists and accomplished coaches complement a staff that includes noted authors, scholars, and politicians. This historically black college has also turned alumni donations into hands-on learning experiences that include cutting edge engineering laboratories, performing arts spaces, and a full service public radio station.