If you’re a high school student starting your college search or a parent helping guide that process, Hofstra University is a campus worth putting on your radar. During my recent visit, I discovered a university that blends hands-on learning, real-world experience, and supportive faculty across every major. Here’s a look at what stood out most during my tour.

Lawrence Herbert School of Communication: A Creative Powerhouse

The Lawrence Herbert School of Communication is an incredible place for students passionate about media in any form. The school feels large enough to offer impressive resources but small enough to remain personal.

What really impressed me:

State-of-the-art studios and hands-on experience

Students don’t wait until junior or senior year to touch equipment. They start on day one, working in professional-level studios.

Three dynamic programs

  • Radio, TV & Film
  • Journalism, Media Studies & Public Relations
  • Sports Media

Each program is taught by professors who are active professionals in the field, bringing current industry insight right into the classroom.

Opportunities beyond campus

Only 25 miles from NYC, students have access to one of the world’s largest media hubs. Plus, Hofstra offers a full-semester Los Angeles program, where students take classes and complete internships in the heart of the entertainment industry.

Award-winning student media

Hofstra’s student-run radio station has won “Best College Radio Station” five times, and students own all the work they create.

Internship success

An incredible 80% of students complete internships, averaging three internships each. Partnerships include major media organizations like the Long Island Bureau of ABC.

If you’re looking for a communication school that blends creativity with real-world experience, this is a standout.

Engineering: High-Tech, Hands-On, and Interdisciplinary

Hofstra’s School of Engineering impressed me with its mix of cutting-edge facilities and strong undergraduate focus.

Programs include:

  • Bioengineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Engineering Science
  • Human Factors & Usability Studies (notably, this program has a lower math requirement and is highly interdisciplinary)

What makes Hofstra Engineering unique:

  • A large, student-centered Maker Space with tools like 3D printers
  • Strong focus on undergraduate research and real-world problem-solving
  • Co-op programs lasting 6–8 months where students earn about $25,000, and 95% are offered jobs afterward
  • Summer research opportunities
  • Programs designed to let students work across disciplines

If your student loves designing, creating, or improving how people interact with technology, Hofstra offers an impressive environment for innovation.

Nursing and Health Programs: Preparing Tomorrow’s Medical Leaders

Hofstra’s nursing offerings are growing quickly and include:

  • A Cardiovascular Perfusion Program
  • A strong network of hospital affiliations
  • A CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) program, known for its rigor and strong outcomes

Students get clinical experience early and often, making Hofstra a strong option for anyone pursuing advanced healthcare roles.

Zarb School of Business: High Tech, High Touch, Highly Connected

The Zarb School of Business blends powerful technology with strong industry connections.

Highlights:

  • A trading room with 35 Bloomberg terminals
  • Deep connections to industry for internships and career placement
  • A $35 million gift dedicated to business school scholarships. Students must apply as business majors and then compete on campus for these awards.

For high school students:

Hofstra offers a one-week summer program, the Zarb Business Summer Experience, perfect for exploring the business world early.

Hofstra describes the Zarb School as “high tech, high touch, and deeply connected,” and after the tour, it’s easy to see why.

Final Thoughts

Hofstra University offers an exciting blend of:

  • Hands-on learning
  • Career-focused opportunities
  • Professors who remain active in their professional fields
  • Programs that take students far beyond the classroom – from Los Angeles to New York City and beyond

Whether your interests are media, engineering, business, nursing, or something in between, Hofstra seems committed to helping students build skills, gain experience, and launch strong careers.Top of Form