Overview
Holy Names University traced its roots to 1868 when the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary founded a school in Oakland, California, later evolving into a four-year college and eventually a university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees. It built a reputation as a small, mission-driven Catholic institution emphasizing values-based education, social justice, and close student-faculty relationships, with particular strength in nursing, education, music, and business programs. Despite decades of service to a diverse, often first-generation student population, the university faced mounting financial difficulties and declining enrollment that ultimately led to its closure at the end of the 2022-2023 academic year.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Oakland, California |
| Founded | 1868 |
| Total students | 1,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 12:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $20,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 870-1080 |
| ACT range | 16-21 |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Education
- Business Administration
- Music
- Psychology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.