Hollins University
The Vibe Check
Hollins University feels like a close-knit creative sanctuary where every student knows each other by name. The historic campus, with its stunning gardens and classic architecture, fosters a deeply supportive and collaborative atmosphere. It’s a place where intellectual curiosity and artistic expression are not just encouraged but lived daily.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Hollins is renowned for its top-tier programs in writing, visual arts, and the humanities, offering a rigorous liberal arts education with personalized attention. The small class sizes ensure that teaching is interactive and mentorship from professors is the norm. Research and creative projects are highly accessible, with strong opportunities for undergraduates to publish and exhibit their work.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Roanoke
Students enjoy the proximity to Roanoke, a vibrant city known for its thriving arts scene, live music, and the famous Roanoke City Market. Outdoor enthusiasts love exploring the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and scenic views. On campus, student life is active with numerous clubs, literary readings, and theater productions.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($40,075):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Hollins has a very safe, self-contained campus with a low crime rate and a responsive campus security team. The surrounding suburban area of Roanoke is generally peaceful and secure, though standard urban precautions are always wise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional creative writing and arts programs with a nationally recognized reputation.
- ✓ Extremely small class sizes guarantee individual attention and mentorship from professors.
- ✓ Beautiful, historic 475-acre campus provides a tranquil and inspiring learning environment.
- ✓ Strong, supportive alumnae network, especially in literary and artistic fields.
Cons
- ✗ Limited racial and socioeconomic diversity compared to larger public universities.
- ✗ The small, intimate setting may feel isolating for students who prefer a large, bustling campus.
- ✗ Location in a mid-sized city may offer fewer internship and job opportunities in certain corporate fields.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Hollins University is nationally renowned for its prestigious programs in creative writing, visual arts, and the humanities. It is particularly famous for its graduate writing program and has produced a remarkable number of acclaimed authors and poets. The university also has a strong focus on undergraduate research and experiential learning.
Hollins University has an acceptance rate of 70.86%, making it moderately selective. While it is not as competitive as top-tier universities, a strong application is still necessary. The middle 50% SAT range is approximately 1150-1360, so applicants with scores above the average of 1256 have a better chance of admission.
Campus life at Hollins is intimate and community-oriented, with a student body of only about 673 undergraduates. Students are deeply engaged in creative pursuits, with a vibrant arts scene, an active literary magazine, and numerous theater productions. The residential campus fosters close friendships, and students often participate in outdoor activities in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.
The value of a Hollins degree depends heavily on a student's career goals. For those pursuing careers in writing, the arts, or non-profit work, the specialized training and strong alumnae network can make it a worthwhile investment. However, for students targeting high-paying corporate fields, the return on investment may be lower compared to larger state schools with stronger STEM and business programs.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 708
- In-State Tuition $42,260
- Zip Code 24020
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $42,000, the net price of around $22,000 after aid makes it more accessible for many families. The 10-year median earnings of $40,075 are modest, suggesting that while the degree provides a solid foundation, its financial return is average. The investment is most worthwhile for students passionate about careers in the arts, non-profits, or education, where the strong alumni network and hands-on experience are invaluable.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.