Hampton University is a private, historically Black research university located in Hampton, Virginia. Established in 1868 as the Hampton Agricultural and Industrial School, it was founded by leaders of the American Missionary Association to provide education for freedmen following the Civil War. The university’s campus spans 314 acres along the Hampton River and includes significant landmarks such as the Hampton University Museum, the oldest museum dedicated to the African diaspora in the United States.
Academic Programs and Enrollment
Hampton University offers a wide range of academic programs, with over 90 degree options including 50 bachelor’s degrees, 25 master’s degrees, and 9 doctoral programs. As of fall 2023, the university has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 3,255 students. The institution is classified as an R2 Doctoral University, indicating high research activity.
Notable Features
- Research Centers: The university hosts 16 research centers, notably the Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute, which is recognized as the largest freestanding facility of its kind globally.
- Athletics: Students can participate in over 100 student organizations and athletics through the NCAA Division I Colonial Athletic Association as part of the Hampton Pirates.
- Dress Code: There is a specific dress code on campus that prohibits certain fashions.
Historical Significance
Hampton University’s historical roots are deeply intertwined with significant events in American history. The Emancipation Oak on campus is where the Emancipation Proclamation was first read in Confederate territory. This tree symbolizes both the university and the city of Hampton. Notable alumni include influential figures such as Booker T. Washington and Alberta Williams King, mother of Martin Luther King Jr. In summary, Hampton University stands as a prominent institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
