Academics
Harris-Stowe State University applies a standard of academic excellence that prepares its graduates for an array of professional opportunities. With 59 majors, minors, and certificate programs, including STEM, healthcare, and business, HSSU has a palette of degree programs designed to nurture intellectual curiosity and build authentic skills for success in a diverse society. In fact, HSSU is one of the leading producers in the nation of Black STEM graduates, and all STEM faculty have PhDs. HSSU is also known for its Urban Education program, which effectively prepares urban education specialists to solve urban-related problems in today’s schools. Students are encouraged to make the most of HSSU’s extensive partner programs, including opportunities to earn additional degrees with the Goldfarb School of Nursing, the Kansas City University School of Medicine and Biosciences, and Washington University’s occupational therapy partnership. Additionally, nearby Saint Louis University has partnered with HSSU to offer a 3+2/3+3 program that allows students to earn an accelerated mathematics degree from HSSU and then directly continue on to earn an engineering degree from Saint Louis University.
Career
Harris-Stowe State University doesn’t just encourage students to participate in campus activities and organizations: it gives them a large variety to choose from. As a result, there are many ways to be socially engaged, whether through Greek life, the Student Government Association, honor societies, or faith-based organizations. There are also numerous clubs and organizations for just about every interest, from anime, dance, and theater to the Pre-Law Society, NAACP, and the LGBTQIA Alliance. The HSSU Hornets play in the NAIA Division I American Conference in basketball, track, soccer, baseball, softball, and women’s volleyball. Students enjoy the excitement of watching the Hornets play, and the HSSU Marching Hornets—comprised of the HSSU Drumline, Honeycomb Dance Team, and the Color Guard—keep the crowds on their feet.
Culture
During their senior year, all HSSU students are required to complete an internship relating to their major. The Office of Career Engagement helps create connections and partnerships with the surrounding community for students. It also sponsors an annual career fair each spring as well as professional development workshops each semester. HSSU graduates work in a variety of fields and for nationally and regionally recognized businesses and employers from AT&T and Boeing to Saint Louis Community College and multiple school districts throughout Missouri. As public servants, HSSU graduates work for the City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among others. Notable alumni include Maxine Waters, of the U.S. House of Representatives (D-Calif.); Julius Hunter, former St. Louis news reporter; and Charles Shaw, a federal judge.