Top Universities in New York State: A Comprehensive Guide to Higher Educational Excellence
New York State boasts some of the most prestigious and innovative academic institutions in the United States. From Ivy League members to top-ranked research universities, these institutions offer a wide range of programs and opportunities for students to pursue their education and careers. Below is a detailed overview of the best universities and colleges in New York State, along with highlights of their unique offerings and advantages.
Top Universities in New York City
Cornell University
Cornell University, currently ranked 14th in the world, is the premier institution among New York’s universities. As a member of the prestigious Ivy League, Cornell offers both academic and practical educational programs. Notably, Cornell was the first US university to offer a degree in veterinary medicine and the first to teach modern Far-Eastern languages. The university’s main campus is located in Ithaca, but it has a strong presence in NYC with its medical campus on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and the innovative 'Cornell Tech' engineering campus on Roosevelt Island. Cornell has also been credited for creating over 28,000 jobs, showcasing its impact on the local economy.
Columbia University
Columbia University, standing at 18th in the QS World University Rankings, is another esteemed institution. As part of the Ivy League, it boasts a distinguished list of alumni, including former US President Barack Obama. Known for its extensive research and diverse subject offerings, Columbia ranks in the top 10 for subjects like English language and literature, earth and marine sciences, and anatomy and law. The university’s central location in the Upper West Side of Manhattan makes it conveniently accessible, and it features a large international student population, making it a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
New York University (NYU)
New York University, ranked 39th globally, is a top university in New York City that emphasizes internationalization. With a diverse faculty and third-largest international student population, NYU offers a rich and dynamic academic environment. While its main campus is in Greenwich Village, NYU has several locations throughout the city. This diversity in locations caters to different academic interests and lifestyles. NYU is particularly known for its focus on the arts, humanities, and social sciences, with seven academic divisions that include various fields of study.
Research-Focused Universities
Yeshiva University
Yeshiva University, a research-focused university, offers over 10000 students a unique blend of Jewish traditions and Western heritage. Founded over 100 years ago, Yeshiva University still maintains its rich cultural focus. With campuses spread across Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, and Israel, the university’s main campus is in Washington Heights, Upper Manhattan. Notable alumni include Bradley Cooper, Tom Ford, and Burt Bacharach, highlighting the institution's contributions to various fields of arts and sciences.
The New School
The New School, previously named New School University, is a vibrant and creative institution with over 10000 students, around 30% of whom are international. Situated in the artistic environment of Greenwich Village, the New School focuses on arts, humanities, and social sciences. It boasts seven academic divisions and a centenary celebration this year, marking its significant contributions to education over the past century.
Public and State Universities
City University of New York (CUNY)
CUNY, the public university system of New York City, is the largest urban university system in the US, composed of 24 colleges spread across five boroughs. With over 274000 students, CUNY offers a wide range of courses, from vocational training to PhD research, providing a broad array of educational opportunities. The university’s close connections with the city’s neighborhoods and its network of internship and fellowship programs enhance the student experience.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Although Stevens Institute of Technology is located in Hoboken, New Jersey, it is included in our list due to its proximity to Manhattan, offering stunning views of New York City’s skyline. Stevens is known for its strong focus on engineering, science, and technology, marketing itself as the 'Innovation University.' The institute also offers arts and humanities subjects, with around 6900 students enrolled, more than half at the postgraduate level.
Fordham University
With a Jesuit heritage and a focus on liberal arts sciences and business, Fordham University is a top institution in New York. Composed of ten colleges, it enrolls around 16037 students across four undergraduate and six postgraduate colleges. The university’s Rose Hill campus in the Bronx is close to the Little Italy area, while its Lincoln Center campus in Manhattan is near the south-east corner of Central Park. This diverse campus setup caters to students with different interests and backgrounds.