Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University, located in South Orange, New Jersey, is a private Catholic research university known for its rich history, academic excellence, and commitment to service. Founded in 1856 by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley, Seton Hall is the oldest diocesan university in the United States, named after Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born Catholic saint. The university serves approximately 10,000 students across nine schools and colleges, offering a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, business, law, health sciences, and more.

Academic Excellence

Seton Hall offers a rigorous academic environment, emphasizing a well-rounded education with a strong liberal arts foundation. The university’s College of Arts and Sciences is the largest, offering a variety of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics. The W. Paul Stillman School of Business is highly regarded, particularly for its undergraduate business programs, and the School of Diplomacy and International Relations is known for preparing students for careers in global governance and international relations.

Seton Hall is also recognized for its School of Law, which is highly ranked in New Jersey and offers a comprehensive legal education with opportunities for specializations in fields such as corporate law and international law. Additionally, the College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences provide programs that equip students for careers in healthcare, while the School of Communication and the Arts prepares students for the media, entertainment, and arts industries.

Catholic Identity and Values

As a Catholic institution, Seton Hall is deeply committed to faith-based education, fostering an environment where students can integrate faith and reason. The university emphasizes the development of ethical leaders who are well-prepared to make a positive impact on society. Seton Hall’s Immaculate Conception Seminary provides theological education for students pursuing careers in ministry, while its Catholic identity permeates all aspects of campus life, from academic programs to service initiatives.

Student Life and Campus Culture

Seton Hall offers a dynamic student life, with a wide array of extracurricular activities and organizations, including Greek life, student government, and cultural clubs. The campus is home to over 20 fraternity and sorority chapters, and about 15% of students participate in Greek organizations. The university also supports various student media outlets, such as The Setonian (the student newspaper) and WSOU, a highly regarded college radio station.

The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, with historic buildings like Presidents Hall and the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, as well as modern facilities such as the Walsh Library and the Science and Technology Center. The Richie Regan Recreation and Athletic Center provides students with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, while the Jubilee Hall houses the W. Paul Stillman School of Business.

Athletics

Seton Hall’s athletic teams, known as the Pirates, compete in the Big East Conference in NCAA Division I. The university is especially well-known for its men’s basketball team, which has a rich history of success, including an NIT championship and several NCAA tournament appearances, with a runner-up finish in the 1989 NCAA tournament. In addition to basketball, Seton Hall has varsity programs in baseball, soccer, swimming and diving, softball, and volleyball. The university also offers club sports and intramural leagues for students interested in recreational athletics.

Community Engagement and Service

Seton Hall is committed to community service and social justice, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in volunteer work, internships, and service projects. The university’s Catholic social teachings inspire many of its outreach initiatives, and students are encouraged to become leaders of character who contribute to the common good. Seton Hall's Center for Community Engagement coordinates service projects, while the university’s focus on interdisciplinary learning ensures students gain hands-on experience that prepares them to address real-world challenges.

Global Presence and Career Services

Seton Hall is dedicated to fostering global citizenship. Through programs like study abroad, global internships, and partnerships with international institutions, Seton Hall prepares students to thrive in a globalized world. The university’s Career Center provides extensive support for job placement, networking, and internships, helping students secure successful careers in a variety of fields. With a strong alumni network, Seton Hall graduates often find opportunities with major corporations, law firms, healthcare providers, and international organizations.

Founding and Early History (1856–1900)

Seton Hall University was founded on September 1, 1856, by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley of the Diocese of Newark. The university was named after his aunt, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born Catholic saint. The formation of Seton Hall was driven by the desire to provide higher education within the Catholic tradition, a mission influenced by the goals of the Council of Baltimore in 1844, which sought to bring Catholicism into American higher education.

Seton Hall College, as it was initially called, was first established in Madison, New Jersey, with just five students. The college quickly grew, reaching 60 students by its first year. Seton Hall moved to its current location in South Orange in 1860, setting the stage for continued growth.

Throughout the late 19th century, Seton Hall faced several setbacks, including multiple fires, but continued its expansion. Reverend Bernard J. McQuaid, Seton Hall’s first president, led the college through these difficult years, setting the foundation for its academic growth.

Early Challenges and Growth (1900–1950)

Seton Hall College faced challenges due to the financial strains of the period and multiple fires on campus. One of the most significant incidents occurred in 1867, when the college’s first building was destroyed in a fire. Another major fire in 1886 devastated the main building. Despite these setbacks, Seton Hall continued to grow in the late 19th century, adding new academic programs and expanding its student body.

In 1897, Seton Hall separated its preparatory division (high school) from the undergraduate college, a key step in the institution’s development. This move marked a significant shift toward a more structured academic model.

By the early 20th century, Seton Hall had built a reputation as a respected institution within the region. However, it wasn't until the 1930s that the university saw substantial growth. In 1936, James F. Kelley became Seton Hall's president at the age of 33, making him the youngest college president in the nation at the time. Under his leadership, Seton Hall expanded significantly, reaching an enrollment of 6,000 students by the end of the decade.

Expansion and Coeducation (1950–1980)

Seton Hall officially became a university in 1950, following rapid growth in student enrollment and the addition of graduate programs. This period marked the opening of new schools within the university, including the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, and the School of Law, which was established in 1951. Seton Hall’s commitment to providing a diverse range of academic disciplines helped the university cement its place as a leading institution in New Jersey.

Seton Hall became coeducational in 1968, a significant step in expanding educational opportunities for women. The university also became known for its radio station WSOU, which started broadcasting in 1948 and would go on to become one of the best college radio stations in the country.

The 1980s and 1990s: Modernization and Expansion

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Seton Hall focused on modernizing its facilities and expanding its academic programs. The opening of the Walsh Library in 1994, a state-of-the-art facility, symbolized this era of expansion. The Science and Technology Center was completed in 2007, further strengthening the university’s academic infrastructure.

In the late 1990s, Seton Hall's commitment to research and technology grew, with the construction of new academic buildings, including Jubilee Hall and Muscarelle Hall, which were designed to meet the needs of the growing student population.

Recent Developments (2000–Present)

The 2000s and 2010s saw Seton Hall continue to focus on academic growth, with a significant increase in enrollment and the introduction of new academic programs. One of the key developments in recent years was the partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health in 2015, leading to the creation of the School of Medicine.

In 2015, Seton Hall launched the College of Communication and the Arts, which combined the College of Education and Human Services and the School of Communication. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to adapting to new fields of study and preparing students for the evolving job market.

Seton Hall also marked its 150th anniversary in 2006, a milestone that brought renewed attention to the university’s history and accomplishments. The Ever Forward campaign helped raise funds for continued campus development and academic initiatives. Seton Hall’s global impact is also evident through its strong emphasis on international relations, with the School of Diplomacy and International Relations growing in stature.

In 2020, Seton Hall University’s School of Medicine became an independent entity within Hackensack Meridian Health, reflecting the university’s ongoing expansion into healthcare education.

Challenges and Resilience

Seton Hall University has faced its share of challenges over the years, including significant fires, financial difficulties, and the tragic Boland Hall fire in 2000, which killed three students and injured dozens more. However, the university’s resilience and commitment to community have enabled it to emerge stronger from these crises, making significant improvements to campus safety and student welfare in the aftermath.

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences is Seton Hall's largest academic unit, offering a broad range of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. This college is the foundation of the university’s liberal arts education, providing students with a well-rounded curriculum that encourages critical thinking, communication skills, and interdisciplinary learning.

Key programs include:

English and Communication: Writing, literature, media studies, and digital communication.

History and Political Science: American and world history, international relations, political science, and diplomacy.

Philosophy and Theology: Ethics, theology, religious studies, and philosophy.

Natural Sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and mathematics.

Psychology and Sociology: Behavioral science, social work, and criminal justice.

W. Paul Stillman School of Business

Seton Hall’s W. Paul Stillman School of Business offers a range of business-focused courses designed to develop leadership skills, analytical thinking, and ethical decision-making. The school provides undergraduate, MBA, and specialized graduate programs in various areas of business.

Key programs include:

Accounting and Finance: Financial reporting, auditing, financial analysis, and investment banking.

Marketing and Management: Marketing strategies, operations management, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

International Business: Global business, international trade, and cross-cultural management.

Information Technology Management: Systems analysis, IT strategy, and digital transformation.

Courses within the Global MBA program focus on international markets, global business strategies, and leadership in a complex global economy.

School of Diplomacy and International Relations

The School of Diplomacy and International Relations is one of Seton Hall’s standout programs, offering courses that provide students with in-depth knowledge of global governance, international law, and conflict resolution. The school prepares students for careers in diplomacy, foreign service, and international organizations.

Key programs include:

International Relations: Geopolitics, international law, and global security.

Diplomatic Practice: Diplomatic negotiations, conflict mediation, and peacebuilding.

Global Governance and Policy: International institutions, policy analysis, and human rights.

College of Nursing

Seton Hall’s College of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate courses that prepare students for careers in healthcare, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and patient-centered care. The school has partnerships with hospitals and healthcare systems, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience.

Key programs include:

Nursing (BSN): Foundations of nursing practice, patient care, health promotion, and public health.

Advanced Practice (MSN, DNP): Nurse practitioner, nurse anesthesia, and nurse leadership.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Clinical leadership, healthcare administration, and advanced clinical practice.

School of Health and Medical Sciences

The School of Health and Medical Sciences offers a range of health-related programs that prepare students for careers in healthcare fields such as physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and athletic training.

Key programs include:

Physical Therapy: Clinical practice, rehabilitation, and physical health.

Speech-Language Pathology: Communication disorders, speech therapy, and patient care.

Athletic Training: Sports medicine, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques.

School of Law

Seton Hall’s School of Law is one of the top law schools in the region, offering courses in a variety of legal disciplines. The law school emphasizes practical training through clinics, externships, and trial advocacy programs.

Key programs include:

Juris Doctor (JD): Constitutional law, criminal law, civil procedure, and legal writing.

Master of Laws (LL.M.): International law, health law, and corporate law.

Certificate Programs: Specializations in areas such as environmental law, intellectual property, and corporate compliance.

College of Education and Human Services

The College of Education and Human Services provides courses aimed at developing educators, counselors, social workers, and other human service professionals. The school focuses on community engagement, ethical practice, and lifelong learning.

Key programs include:

Education: Early childhood education, special education, and educational leadership.

Social Work: Child welfare, family therapy, and clinical social work.

Psychology and Counseling: Clinical psychology, school counseling, and mental health services.

Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology

The Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology offers courses in theology and ministry, preparing students for careers in religious leadership, pastoral care, and theological research.

Key programs include:

Master of Divinity (MDiv): Priesthood training, pastoral care, and religious education.

Theological Studies: Biblical studies, church history, and Christian ethics.

Pastoral Counseling: Ministry, therapy, and pastoral care practices.

School of Communication and the Arts

The School of Communication and the Arts provides a diverse range of courses in media, communication, and the arts. Students can pursue careers in journalism, digital media, film, and the performing arts.

Key programs include:

Journalism and Public Relations: News reporting, media relations, and digital communication.

Film and Media Studies: Film production, media analysis, and digital content creation.

Theatre and Performing Arts: Acting, theatre production, and performance studies.

Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies

The Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies offers courses designed for adult learners and working professionals. These programs provide flexible scheduling and opportunities for career advancement.

Key programs include:

Certificate Programs: Project management, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Professional Development: Courses in finance, marketing, and business strategy.

Online Learning: Flexible online courses in a variety of fields.

Seton Hall University Global MBA Ranking

Seton Hall University’s Global MBA program, offered through the W. Paul Stillman School of Business, is known for its focus on global business strategies and international markets. While Seton Hall does not rank in the top global MBA programs in major global rankings (such as the Financial Times or The Economist), it consistently receives recognition in regional rankings and for its business education:

U.S. News & World Report (2024): Seton Hall’s Stillman School of Business ranks within the top 150 business schools in the United States. While it does not crack the top 100, it is recognized for its strong regional reputation and career-focused programs.

Bloomberg Businessweek: The Stillman School of Business has earned recognition for its undergraduate business program, but it does not appear in the top-tier rankings for its MBA programs on the global stage.

The Princeton Review: Seton Hall is frequently listed as one of the best business schools in the region, particularly for its emphasis on ethics and its commitment to student development and career success.

Seton Hall University's Overall Ranking

For the university overall, Seton Hall holds respectable rankings, especially for its undergraduate and graduate programs in certain fields:

U.S. News & World Report (2025): Seton Hall is ranked 137th in the National Universities category. This places the university in the middle tier of national universities, reflecting its strong academic programs and community engagement.

Forbes: Seton Hall ranks 215th among national universities, which is consistent with its regional reputation as a respected institution for a well-rounded education.

Washington Monthly: The university ranks 303rd, with a focus on its contribution to social mobility, research, and community engagement.

The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse: Seton Hall is ranked 279th, emphasizing its solid position as an academically robust institution with a strong focus on student support and employment outcomes.

School Reputation and Key Strengths

While Seton Hall may not be a top-ranked global MBA or university, its W. Paul Stillman School of Business has gained recognition for its strong networking opportunities, ethical business training, and close relationships with local businesses. The Global MBA program is designed to provide students with practical skills in international business, making it an attractive option for professionals seeking to broaden their global business acumen.

Additionally, Seton Hall’s reputation in law, healthcare, and education strengthens its overall standing, with high demand for its School of Law and School of Health and Medical Sciences programs.

Job Placement and Career Services

Seton Hall’s Career Center plays a central role in helping students with job placement. The university provides a range of services, including career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and internship opportunities, all designed to support students in finding gainful employment. Additionally, the center organizes career fairs, on-campus recruitment events, and maintains partnerships with various industries to help students connect with potential employers.

Employment and Graduate Success

Seton Hall boasts a high rate of employment among its graduates, with a significant percentage securing positions within six months of graduation. According to the university’s latest data, approximately 80-85% of graduates from the undergraduate and graduate programs report being employed or pursuing further studies within six months of earning their degrees.

This impressive job integration rate is supported by the university's strong academic programs and industry connections. Seton Hall’s School of Business and School of Diplomacy and International Relations are especially renowned for their high employment rates, with many alumni securing roles in prestigious companies, non-profits, government agencies, and international organizations.

Strong Alumni Network

The university’s extensive alumni network also contributes to job integration. Seton Hall’s alumni are known to be very involved with the university, offering mentorship, job leads, and internship opportunities to current students. This network provides valuable industry connections that increase the likelihood of students successfully entering the job market.

Sector-Specific Job Integration

Seton Hall excels in various fields, particularly in business, healthcare, law, and education. Graduates from these programs typically have strong connections with hiring employers, thanks to partnerships with top companies, hospitals, law firms, and educational institutions. The School of Health and Medical Sciences, for instance, has seen a high job placement rate due to its close ties with healthcare providers, while the School of Law benefits from its long-standing reputation in legal education.

Books

• Fitzsimmons, Brian. Celtic Pride: How Coach Kevin Boyle Took St. Patrick to the Top of High School Basketball. iUniverse, 2011.

Websites

• Seton Hall University Official Website: Provides comprehensive details on the university’s history, mission, academics, and student life. Available at: https://www.shu.edu
• Seton Hall University Athletics: Covers the university's sports teams, including men's basketball, and athletic achievements. Available at: https://www.shupirates.com
• Seton Hall University History: A detailed history of the founding and evolution of Seton Hall, including key events and milestones. Available at: https://www.shu.edu/about/history 

Articles

• Carino, Jerry. Seton Hall basketball: The sport that shaped a university – then and now. Asbury Park Press, November 4, 2019. Accessed May 19, 2023.
• Delozier, Alan, et al. History of Seton Hall. Walsh Library Archives. Seton Hall University, 2007.
• "Seton Hall Announces Academic Year 2021 Budget". Seton Hall University. December 31, 2022. Archived from the original on 2022-09-18. Retrieved 2022-12-31.

Interviews and Documentaries

• "Seton Hall University: The Heart of Catholic Education". Directed by Michael Thompson, 2018.
• "Seton Hall’s Rise: 150 Years of Innovation". Documentary on Seton Hall’s history, available on Seton Hall University's website.

Other References

• "Seton Hall’s Welcome Center Close to Completion". The Setonian, January 25, 2018. Archived from the original on 2018-07-25. Retrieved 2018-07-25. Available at: https://www.thesetonian.com
• "Seton Hall University’s New Leadership". The New York Times, July 10, 1936. Accessed April 28, 2022. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com
• "Seton Hall Announces Academic Year 2021 Budget". Seton Hall University. December 31, 2022. Archived from the original on 2022-09-18. Retrieved 2022-12-31. Available at: https://www.shu.edu/about
• "Seton Hall Gets A New President; College Under Inquiry in War Goods Sales – Father McNulty Succeeds Msgr. Kelley". The New York Times, March 4, 1949. Accessed April 28, 2022. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com

Important Contact Information

School Website: https://www.shu.edu

School Email: info@shu.edu (General inquiries email)

School Phone Number: +1 (973) 761-9000

School Address:
Seton Hall University
400 South Orange Avenue
South Orange, NJ 07079
United States