Old Dominion University
Research, Innovation, Impact: ODU shapes the future.
📍 Norfolk, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #171 in United States · THE World #801 · ARWU #801
Quick Facts about Old Dominion University
- Founded: 1930
- Type: Public
- Students: 23,743
- International: 1%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $8,840 – $26,500/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Intakes: January, August
About Old Dominion University
Academics
ODU offers 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across seven colleges and three schools, including the College of Arts and Letters, College of Sciences, Batten College of Engineering and Technology, and Strome College of Business. The university emphasizes a teaching approach that activates prior knowledge and gradually shifts responsibility to students, fostering independent learning. Notable programs include those in marine science, coastal and transportation engineering, and an MBA with concentrations in maritime, transportation, and port logistics management. ODU also launched the nation's first School of Cybersecurity, offering BS and MS degrees.
International Students
Old Dominion University embraces a diverse and inclusive environment where cultures converge and viewpoints are respected. While specific diversity statistics for international students were not immediately available, the university's campus life is described as a "cultural crossroads." ODU provides various support services and opportunities for cultural integration, encouraging international students to get involved in its over 300 student organizations and clubs. The university's commitment to global engagement is also reflected in its partnerships and programs.
Campus & Location
Old Dominion University's waterfront campus spans 251 acres in Norfolk, Virginia, a coastal city offering a vibrant mix of sports, music, art, and culture. The campus features modern and traditional architecture, green spaces, and facilities like the Webb University Center, which houses dining options, student organization meeting rooms, and a bowling alley. Norfolk itself provides internship opportunities with major companies, diverse dining, shopping, beautiful beaches, and historical sites. The campus is also situated between the Elizabeth River and Lafayette River, approximately five miles north of downtown Norfolk.
Career Outcomes
Old Dominion University is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers, offering extensive career development services. These services include mock interviews, resume assistance, and networking events with executives. Recent graduates in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering have found employment with prestigious corporations such as NASA Langley Research Center, Newport News Shipbuilding, and Siemens. Top employers of ODU graduates include ADP, the U.S. Navy, Amazon, Microsoft, and Capital One. The university also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit through the Strome Entrepreneurial Center, which provides advising and resources for students interested in launching new ventures.
Information for International Students at Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University in Norfolk, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 1% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$854/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Old Dominion University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Old Dominion University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 2.8
- GRE required
- GMAT required
- Application fee: $50
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Fall: April 15, Spring: October 1, Summer: February 1
Programs at Old Dominion University (20 programs)
Old Dominion University offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (9)
- Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry. Students study topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor (with further education), Human Resources Specialist, Research Assistant, Social Worker (with further education) - Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Students gain expertise in structural analysis, environmental engineering, and transportation planning.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Transportation Planner, Environmental Engineer - Business Administration (BSc) — 48 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices. Students can specialize in areas like finance, marketing, management, or accounting, preparing them for diverse roles in the business world.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Human Resources Manager - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students in this program learn fundamental theories of computation, algorithms, and programming languages. The curriculum covers areas like software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer - Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems and devices. The curriculum covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and robotics, preparing graduates for various engineering roles.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Aerospace Engineer - Aerospace Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. The curriculum covers aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, and structural analysis.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Designer, Space Systems Engineer, Flight Test Engineer - Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse - Criminal Justice (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines the causes of crime, the functions of the criminal justice system, and strategies for crime prevention. Students gain knowledge in law enforcement, corrections, and judicial processes.
Field: Criminal Justice
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Corrections Officer, Crime Analyst - History (BA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a deep understanding of past events, societies, and cultures. Students develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of various historical periods and regions.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Archivist, Museum Curator, Historian, Educator
Master Programs (7)
- Electrical and Computer Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in electrical and computer engineering, with specializations in areas like power systems, control systems, digital signal processing, and computer architecture. Students engage in cutting-edge research.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineer, Research and Development Engineer, Systems Engineer - Education (MEd) — 24 months · English
The Master of Education program offers various specializations, including curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and counseling. It prepares educators for advanced roles in schools and educational institutions.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Educational Consultant, School Counselor - Public Administration (MPA) — 24 months · English
The Master of Public Administration program prepares students for leadership and management roles in public and non-profit organizations. The curriculum focuses on policy analysis, public finance, and organizational behavior.
Field: Public Administration
Career outcomes: City Manager, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Director, Government Official - Cybersecurity (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats. Students learn about network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and information assurance.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Cybersecurity Analyst, Information Security Engineer, Security Consultant, Penetration Tester - Marine Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This master's program focuses on the study of marine organisms and their interactions with the marine environment. Students conduct research on topics such as marine ecology, conservation, and fisheries science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Research Scientist - Oceanography (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This master's program provides advanced knowledge in the study of oceans, including physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography. Students engage in research and fieldwork to understand marine environments.
Field: Oceanography
Career outcomes: Oceanographer, Marine Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Research Scientist - Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program equips students with the skills to extract insights from complex datasets using statistical methods, machine learning, and computational tools. It prepares graduates for roles in data analysis and predictive modeling.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst
PhD Programs (4)
- English (PhD) — 60 months · English
The PhD in English program offers advanced study in literature, rhetoric, and cultural studies. Students conduct original research, write dissertations, and prepare for careers in academia or related fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Literary Critic, Editor, Writer - Applied Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of physics principles to solve practical problems in various fields. Students conduct advanced research in areas such as materials science, optics, and plasma physics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Engineer (R&D), Physicist - Modeling, Simulation, and Visualization Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary PhD program focuses on the theory and application of modeling, simulation, and visualization across various domains. Students develop expertise in creating and analyzing complex systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Simulation Engineer, Data Visualization Specialist, Research Scientist, Systems Analyst - Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on applying engineering principles to solve problems in biology and medicine. Students conduct advanced research in areas such as medical imaging, biomechanics, and biomaterials.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Research Scientist, University Professor, Medical Device Developer
Scholarships & Tuition at Old Dominion University
Annual tuition for international students: $8,840 – $26,500/year
✅ Old Dominion University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Old Dominion University
- National Ranking: #171 in United States
- Times Higher Education (THE): #801
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #801
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Old Dominion University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
- Housing cost: ~$854/month
Key Highlights
- R1: Very High Research Activity
- First School of Cybersecurity
- $2.6 Billion Economic Impact
- Coastal City Waterfront Campus
- Diverse, Inclusive "Cultural Crossroads"
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS)
Notable Alumni
- Shahar Biran
- Michael Bloomfield
- Derrick Borte
- Cal Bowdler
- Daniel Hudson
Frequently Asked Questions about Old Dominion University
What is Old Dominion University?
Old Dominion University is a public university located in Norfolk, United States, founded in 1930. It has approximately 23,743 students, with 1% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Old Dominion University?
Tuition fees at Old Dominion University for international students range from $8,840 – $26,500/year. Student housing costs approximately $854/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Old Dominion University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 2.8. GRE required. GMAT required. Application fee: $50. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Fall: April 15, Spring: October 1, Summer: February 1.
What language are courses taught in at Old Dominion University?
Courses at Old Dominion University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does Old Dominion University offer?
Old Dominion University offers 20 programs: 9 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Old Dominion University ranked?
#171 in United States · THE World #801 · ARWU #801.
Does Old Dominion University offer scholarships?
Yes, Old Dominion University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Old Dominion University provide visa support?
Yes, Old Dominion University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
Apply to Old Dominion University with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Old Dominion University. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.