Stony Brook University (SBU)

Stony Brook, NY / US - 5 25 2017: Jon Oringer accepts honorary doctorate from Stony Brook University
A wide view of Stony Brook University’s commencement ceremony at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium. At the podium, Jon Oringer, founder of Shutterstock, addresses the audience after receiving an honorary doctorate from the university. Behind him, the stadium façade prominently displays Stony Brook University in bold red letters, framed by tall light towers under a clear blue sky. Stony Brook, NY – May 25, 2017 File photo: Jon E Oringer, licensed.

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

CategoryDetails
Founded1957
Campus Size1,000+ acres
Enrollment26,000+ students
Programs200+ undergraduate and graduate
AthleticsNCAA Division I – Stony Brook Seawolves
MascotWolfie the Seawolf
ColorsRed & 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.