Overview
Hofstra University and Stony Brook University are two respected institutions of higher education located on Long Island, New York. Both universities offer a wide range of academic programs and are known for their research and scholarship. However, there are key differences between the two universities that make them distinct options for prospective students.

Academic Profile
Hofstra University
- Founded: 1935
- Enrollment: 11,600 students
- Faculty: 850 full-time faculty
- Student-faculty ratio: 15:1
- Average SAT score (2022): 1140
- Average GPA (2022): 3.6
Stony Brook University
- Founded: 1957
- Enrollment: 26,900 students
- Faculty: 2,400 full-time faculty
- Student-faculty ratio: 17:1
- Average SAT score (2022): 1290
- Average GPA (2022): 3.8
As evident from the statistics above, Stony Brook University generally has a more selective admissions process and higher average SAT/ACT scores and GPAs for incoming students. However, both universities offer a rigorous academic experience with a faculty of experienced and accomplished scholars.
Campus and Location
Hofstra University
Hofstra University is located in Hempstead, New York, about 25 miles east of Manhattan. The campus is spread across 245 acres and includes a mix of modern and historic buildings. It is known for its beautiful landscaping and arboretum.
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is located in Stony Brook, New York, about 50 miles east of Manhattan. The campus is situated on 1,100 acres of land along the North Shore of Long Island. It is a scenic campus with a mix of modern and historic buildings, as well as a large research park.
Both universities offer convenient access to New York City and its cultural and entertainment offerings. However, Stony Brook University has a more suburban feel and is located closer to beaches and other outdoor recreation areas.
Student Life
Hofstra University
Hofstra University offers a diverse and active student life experience. There are over 200 student clubs and organizations, as well as a wide range of athletic programs. The university also has a strong Greek life system, with over 20 fraternities and sororities.
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University also offers a vibrant student life experience. There are over 300 student clubs and organizations, as well as a wide range of athletic programs. The university also has a strong Greek life system, with over 25 fraternities and sororities.
Both universities offer a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.
Athletics
Hofstra University
Hofstra University’s athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division I Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The university has a strong athletic tradition and has won numerous conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. Notable sports include men’s and women’s basketball, football, and lacrosse.
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University’s athletic teams also compete in the NCAA Division I CAA. The university has also had success in recent years, winning conference championships and making NCAA tournament appearances in men’s and women’s basketball, football, and volleyball.
Both universities offer a variety of sports facilities, including stadiums, arenas, and athletic centers.
Notable Alumni
Hofstra University
Hofstra University has a notable alumni base that includes:
- David Paterson, former Governor of New York
- Al Sharpton, civil rights activist and talk show host
- Billy Crystal, actor and comedian
- Ed Koch, former Mayor of New York City
- Alec Baldwin, actor
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University also has a notable alumni base that includes:
- Ray Kelly, former Commissioner of the New York City Police Department
- Richard Carranza, former Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education
- Judy Reardon, former CEO of KPMG
- Dennis Muilenburg, former CEO of Boeing
- Nicholas White, former President of Northeastern University
Conclusion
Hofstra University and Stony Brook University are both excellent institutions of higher education that offer a wide range of academic programs and student life activities. While there are some key differences between the two universities, they both offer a high-quality educational experience. Prospective students should consider their individual needs and preferences when making a decision between the two universities.
Additional Information
Hofstra University
- Website: https://www.hofstra.edu/
- Admissions: https://www.hofstra.edu/admissions/
- Financial aid: https://www.hofstra.edu/financial-aid/
Stony Brook University
- Website: https://www.stonybrook.edu/
- Admissions: https://admissions.stonybrook.edu/
- Financial aid: https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/financialaid/