New Developments on Campus at Stony Brook

Stony Brook University started or completed a number of construction projects over the summer, including the campus recreation center, chemistry building, computer science building, elevator repairs, and more. In addition, the university has announced new academic programs. Here's a roundup of what's new on campus, according to University releases and its current projects website.

Advanced Graduate Program in Health Communications

The university announced an advanced graduate program in health communications for health care professionals, media professionals, and graduate students. It allows them to explore communicating health-related issues to the general public. This eighteen-credit certificate is offered in conjunction with the Graduate Program in Public Health and the School of Journalism. 

Master of Science Degree in Journalism

Beginning in June 2011, Stony Brook will offer a Master of Science degree in journalism. The curriculum focuses on health, science, and environment and technology coverage amid the changing media world. The program is designed to teach students about the media and how to communicate with the public. 

Master of Arts Program in Marine Conservation and Policy

The university's School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences is offering a master's program in Marine Conservation and Policy. This twelve-month course enables students to expand their scientific knowledge referencing marine ecosystems, enhanced communication skills, and views on the economic, legal and/or policy challenges of marine conservation.   

Construction and Renovations Around Campus

The University is currently upgrading its handlers and heat exchanges on campus in the administration building, clinical sciences tower, computing center, student health center, and the physics building. 

Campus Construction Underway

Due to the age of underground piping, deterioration has been occurring. The State University Construction Fund, in conjunction with the university's facilities and services department, is replacing most underground systems in phases. Phase 1, on the north side of campus, has been completed; the second phase is expected to be completed later this year. Construction affects East Campus to Chaplin apartments and Circle Road between Roth Quad and Campus Drive. The University also plans to replace the cooling tower on the east side of campus to cool the Health Sciences Center. 

Campus Recreation Center

A three-floor, 85,000-square-foot building is the school's newest recreation center. The building is equipped with a lounge, wi-fi, gymnasium, meeting hall, fitness studio, suites, an activity court, locker rooms, changing rooms, equipment rental center, and other amenities for all students to enjoy. 

Chemistry Building Renovation

Students taking chemistry classes this fall will be introduced to a new lobby, replacement of air handlers, and new exhaust fans. The laboratory is also undergoing renovations.

Computer Science Building

A design has been selected for a new computer science building to begin renovations in the summer of 2011. Completion will take approximately 15 months. 

Elevator and Escalator Repairs in Progress

Elevator and escalator repairs are a work in progress in various locations on campus. These locations include the basic science tower, chemistry building, clinical sciences tower, Frank Melville Jr. Memorial Library, life sciences and mathematics buildings, and the Staller Center for the Arts. 

C. N. Yang Hall Opens

Students will move into C. N. Yang Hall, part of Nobel Halls, for the first time this fall. The building is the university's first LEED-certified residence hall, with 600 beds. The 175,000-square-foot hall has many energy saving features, open spaces, natural lighting, and energy efficient and eco-friendly building materials. 

Simons Center for Geometry and Physics

The Simons Center for Geometry and Physics, a three year project, will be finalized next month. The center, a six-story, 10,000-square-foot building, features an auditorium, lecture hall and seminar rooms. 

Closures at Stony Brook Southampton and Manhattan Campuses

The university announced in April that cuts to state aid forced the closure of the residential facilities at Stony Brook's Southampton campus, the suspension of new admissions at Southampton, and the closure of one of its Manhattan locations. The controversial announcement was met with opposition from students and local politicians.

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Wednesday: On- and Off-Campus Resources for Stony Brook University Students

Thursday: Dormitory Primer: Guidelines and Essentials for Stocking Your Room

Friday: Chamber President: Watch Out, Princeton – We're a College Town, Too