Holy Names University Profile

Holy Names University (HNU), established in 1868, is a private coeducational institution located in Oakland, California. Over the years, HNU has built a strong reputation for providing a transformative educational experience while maintaining a commitment to academic rigor, social justice, and inclusivity. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring that its programs meet high academic standards. In addition, HNU is authorized to enroll non-immigrant students, making it a global institution that attracts individuals from around the world. Through its academic offerings, commitment to diversity, and emphasis on community engagement, Holy Names University has remained a vital and valuable institution in the Bay Area and beyond.

HNU offers a variety of degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, spanning a wide range of disciplines. At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Music in several different academic fields, including Biological Science, Business Communication, Business Management, Business Marketing, Criminology, English, History, International Relations, Psychobiology, and Psychology, among others. The broad spectrum of majors reflects the university's dedication to offering students a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in multiple fields. Additionally, HNU provides a variety of pre-professional preparation tracks, allowing students to pursue careers in fields such as Dentistry, Law, Medicine, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Veterinary Medicine, and several other healthcare professions, including clinical sciences, medical laboratory technology, respiratory therapy, optometry, podiatry, dental hygiene, and chiropractic medicine.

The diversity of programs available at Holy Names University ensures that students can tailor their education to their personal and professional goals. This academic flexibility encourages interdisciplinary learning and allows students to combine knowledge and skills from various fields to solve complex, real-world problems. For example, students interested in psychology can study psychobiology, exploring the intersection of psychology and biology, while those interested in business management can gain expertise in marketing or business communication. This cross-disciplinary approach enables HNU students to think critically, engage with a variety of perspectives, and prepare for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

In addition to its diverse academic offerings, HNU places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. For certain majors, including Psychology, Liberal Studies, Sociology, and Business Communication, students are required to complete internships as part of their program. These internships provide students with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings while receiving guidance and mentorship from faculty members. This practical experience enhances students' resumes and allows them to build valuable networks that can support their future career aspirations. The university's strong ties to the local community and various industries in the Bay Area also create a wealth of internship opportunities for students, further enhancing the value of their academic experience.

For those seeking advanced degrees, Holy Names University offers a robust selection of graduate programs. The university’s graduate offerings include a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Master of Arts (MA), a Master of Education (M.Ed.), a Master of Music (M.M.), and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The MBA program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business issues such as mergers and acquisitions, financial modeling, internet-based funding, new leadership styles, and managing in a global economy. This program allows students to choose from one to three courses per term, offering flexibility in terms of scheduling. Depending on the student’s pace, the MBA program can be completed in 12, 18, or 24 months. The flexibility of the program allows working professionals to balance their academic pursuits with their personal and professional responsibilities, making it an attractive option for those looking to advance their careers.

The MBA program at HNU stands out for its emphasis on real-world business challenges, leadership development, and global perspectives. By exploring issues such as the quality movement, reengineering, and managing in a rapidly changing world, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the competitive and dynamic global business environment. The program's focus on leadership also helps students develop the interpersonal and strategic skills necessary to effectively manage teams, drive innovation, and navigate complex business challenges.

Additionally, the university’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) program is designed for individuals seeking careers in educational leadership or those who wish to deepen their expertise in teaching and curriculum development. HNU's M.Ed. program is tailored to the needs of both current educators and aspiring leaders in the education sector. The Master of Music (M.M.) program, on the other hand, offers students the opportunity to hone their musical talents while gaining a deeper understanding of music theory, performance, and pedagogy. Finally, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is ideal for individuals looking to advance their nursing careers by gaining expertise in areas such as clinical practice, nursing leadership, and healthcare management.

The variety of graduate programs at HNU underscores the university’s commitment to offering high-quality education that meets the evolving needs of students and professionals. Whether students are pursuing careers in business, education, healthcare, or the arts, Holy Names University provides them with the tools to succeed in their chosen fields.

In addition to its academic programs, Holy Names University is known for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice. The university has earned a reputation for being one of the most diverse campuses in the West, with over 70% of its students coming from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds. According to the U.S. News & World Report’s 2008 edition of America’s Best Colleges, HNU was ranked number one in campus diversity among all institutions in the West. The university’s student body represents 36 nations, making it a truly global institution that values different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This commitment to diversity is reflected not only in the demographics of the student body but also in the curriculum and campus activities. HNU encourages students to engage with issues of social justice, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that they are prepared to be leaders in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

Holy Names University’s focus on diversity and social justice also extends to its faculty, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and are committed to providing students with an inclusive and supportive learning environment. The university’s faculty members work closely with students to ensure their academic success while also encouraging them to think critically about social issues and become advocates for change in their communities. This emphasis on service and leadership reflects the core values of Holy Names University, which aims to develop students who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and morally conscious.

HNU also offers financial aid to help make higher education accessible to all students. Financial aid is available through a combination of scholarships, grants, loans, and company reimbursements. The university’s financial aid office works closely with students to help them navigate the financial aid process and secure the funding they need to pursue their studies. This support is particularly important for students who may not have the financial means to pay for their education out of pocket, as it helps to level the playing field and ensure that all students, regardless of their financial background, have the opportunity to succeed.

Holy Names University’s commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and social justice is reflected in its various rankings and recognition. In the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges 2010 edition, HNU was placed in the Tier 3 category for universities in the Western United States, affirming the quality of its academic programs and its place among respected institutions in the region. Furthermore, the university was rated a "best value" among universities that do not offer doctorates on the West Coast by U.S. News & World Report in 2006. These accolades reflect HNU’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for students seeking a quality education without the burden of overwhelming debt.

In conclusion, Holy Names University offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to meet the needs of students from all walks of life. Whether pursuing undergraduate degrees in fields such as biology, business, psychology, or history, or seeking graduate degrees in business, education, nursing, or music, HNU provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in their chosen careers. The university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice creates a supportive and enriching environment for students, helping them to grow both academically and personally. With a rich history, a global student body, and a strong commitment to academic excellence, Holy Names University continues to be a valuable institution for students in the Bay Area and beyond, equipping them to make meaningful contributions to society.