Stony Brook University (SBU)

Stony Brook University (SBU), part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, is one of the nation’s leading public research universities and a flagship institution of higher education on Long Island. Established in 1957, SBU has grown into an internationally recognized hub for science, engineering, medicine, business, and the arts. With a student body of more than 26,000 and a reputation for cutting-edge research, Stony Brook is a driving force in education, innovation, and economic growth for both Long Island and New York State.
Campus & Location
- Main Campus: Located in Stony Brook, New York, on Long Island’s North Shore, the university spans over 1,000 acres.
- Campus Features: Modern academic buildings, advanced laboratories, athletic facilities, cultural centers, and a lively student union.
- Transportation: Convenient access via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Stony Brook station, which sits directly on campus.
- Nearby Attractions: The picturesque Stony Brook Village, Avalon Park & Preserve, and Port Jefferson Harbor are all minutes away.
Academics
Stony Brook offers more than 200 academic programs, ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral research.
- Strengths: Biomedical sciences, engineering, computer science, marine and atmospheric sciences, and business.
- Prestige: Ranked among the top public universities in the U.S. and recognized globally for its research output.
- Faculty: Home to Nobel Prize winners, MacArthur Fellows, and leaders in various scientific and academic fields.
- Global Partnerships: Member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and co-manager of Brookhaven National Laboratory.
Research & Innovation
Stony Brook is renowned for its contributions to scientific discovery and innovation.
- Brookhaven National Laboratory: SBU plays a vital role in managing this world-class research facility.
- Medical Research: Cutting-edge research through the Renaissance School of Medicine.
- Technology & Startups: The university fosters entrepreneurship through its business incubators and innovation centers.
Medical Center & Health Sciences
The Stony Brook University Hospital is a nationally ranked, 600+ bed academic medical center located on campus.
- Services: Comprehensive care, specialty treatment, trauma center, and children’s hospital.
- Education: Renaissance School of Medicine and health sciences programs train future doctors, nurses, and researchers.
- Impact: The medical center is a cornerstone of healthcare for Long Island residents.
Athletics
- Teams: Known as the Stony Brook Seawolves, SBU competes in NCAA Division I athletics.
- Facilities: Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium (football, lacrosse, soccer) and Island Federal Arena (basketball).
- Traditions: The “Wolfie” mascot and Homecoming, known as “Wolfstock,” bring school spirit to life.
Arts & Culture
Beyond academics and athletics, Stony Brook offers a vibrant arts scene:
- Staller Center for the Arts: Hosts concerts, theater, film festivals, and art exhibitions open to the public.
- Cultural Diversity: Student organizations celebrate a wide variety of traditions and global heritages.
Notable Alumni
Stony Brook graduates have gone on to excel in science, business, politics, media, and the arts. Some notable names include:
- Joy Behar – Television host and comedian.
- Jon Oringer – Founder of Shutterstock.
- Jef Raskin – Computer scientist, known as the initiator of Apple’s Macintosh project.
- Kevin Merida – Acclaimed journalist and editor.
Admissions & Tuition
- Admissions: Stony Brook is moderately selective, with a focus on academic achievement and well-rounded applicants.
- Tuition (2025): Approximately $11,500 per year for in-state undergraduates and $32,000 for out-of-state students (not including room and board).
- Financial Aid: Federal and state aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities are available.
Quick Snapshot
Category | Details |
---|---|
Founded | 1957 |
Campus Size | 1,000+ acres |
Enrollment | 26,000+ students |
Programs | 200+ undergraduate and graduate |
Athletics | NCAA Division I – Stony Brook Seawolves |
Mascot | Wolfie the Seawolf |
Colors | Red & Gray |
Visiting Stony Brook University
The university is easily accessible via the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and by rail through the LIRR’s Stony Brook station. Guided tours are offered year-round, giving prospective students and families a firsthand look at campus life.
Address:
Stony Brook University
100 Nicolls Road
Stony Brook, NY 11794
https://www.stonybrook.edu
As a world-class research university, Stony Brook has shaped Long Island into a hub for innovation, healthcare, and education. From Nobel-level science to Division I athletics, SBU continues to expand its global reputation while remaining an integral part of Long Island’s community and culture.