Best
Public Colleges in New York City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in New York City offers access to a dynamic economy and diverse industries. Programs typically cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Students may build skills through internships and practical projects. Popular local choices include Baruch College, New York University, Fordham University, and Pace University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, financial associates, human resources specialists, operations managers, or entrepreneurs across the city's many sectors.

Psychology

Studying psychology in New York City offers access to research and internships. Programs cover developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling theories. Graduates may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral technician, or community support worker; clinical practice requires graduate education and licensure. Popular options include Columbia University, New York University, Hunter College, and Fordham University. Students can tailor coursework and fieldwork to interests.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in New York City offers access to a diverse tech community and internships across finance, media, healthcare, and startups. Courses commonly include programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems engineers, or product-focused technical professionals. Popular local choices include Columbia University, New York University, The City College of New York, and CUNY Hunter College.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in New York City combines classroom learning with supervised practice serving diverse communities. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and clinical internships. Popular options include Columbia University's Teachers College, New York University, Hunter College, and Fordham University. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or college advisers. Many clinical positions require supervised hours and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in New York City combines learning with clinical experience in hospitals and communities. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and community health. Popular NYC options include NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, and CUNY Lehman College. Graduates pursue registered nurse positions in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health agencies, with study opening advanced practice careers.

Best Colleges in New York City, NY Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,880, compared with 18,286 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 3,406.
• An average of 90% of students receive financial aid, compared with 57.83% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 57.83%. Schools receive an average of 19,676.5 applicants, while top 10% schools average 33,296.5 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 10,243, and the median number of female applicants is 12,558.
• The average number of enrolled students is 16,363.6; the average numbers of enrolled men and women are 745 and 1,137.17, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 64.6%, compared with 77.4% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 49% for men and 63% for women.
• Two institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, seven offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees.
• There are five coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates and applicant numbers. Also consider graduation outcomes, the degree levels offered, and the school's student population to identify options that fit your academic goals and circumstances.

How much does studying at a college in New York City, NY cost?

The average reported total cost of getting a degree in New York City, NY, is about $16,015.33. For you, this is a useful starting point - not a guaranteed bill - because your actual expenses depend on the college, program, living arrangements, and financial aid. Popular choices such as CUNY colleges, New York University, and Columbia University offer very different campus and cost experiences, so compare each school's estimate before enrolling.

Typical published cost figures are:

• Average tuition and fees: $7,527
• Average room and board: $23,580.20
• Average books and supplies: $1,570

Because these averages do not reconcile into a single student budget, use $16,015.33 as a benchmark and verify cost of attendance with colleges. If you commute to a CUNY campus, you can reduce housing expenses. At NYU or Columbia, compare aid, housing, and payment options. Your net price after grants and scholarships could make studying in NYC feel more manageable.

How long does it take to finish college in New York City, NY?

In New York City, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. Students at CUNY campuses, NYU, or Columbia should check each program's requirements, since majors, course availability, and part-time schedules can extend that timeline. Across the schools, the average graduation rate is 64.6%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 77.4%. The averages are 56.8% for men and 69.4% for women, offering a snapshot of completion, not a guarantee for you. Can you finish faster? Possibly: NYC students may shorten their path by bringing in accepted AP or transfer credits, taking summer courses, or choosing an accelerated program where available. Confirm the credits apply to your major before enrolling, and map required courses with an adviser to avoid delays. A full-time schedule and planning can make graduating on time feel achievable - and exciting.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in New York City earn a median alumni salary of $47,214. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is $66,934. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings can vary with your degree, experience, and career path.

Studying at institutions such as CUNY colleges, NYU, Columbia, or Fordham can put you close to opportunities across New York City's many industries. Your major and work experience matter, too: internships, networking, and practical skills can help you pursue roles that fit your goals and make the most of your degree.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in New York City?

Columbia University is often considered New York City's most prestigious college, thanks to its global reputation, selective admissions, and longstanding academic standing. However, "most prestigious" depends on the field and what matters to you: New York University, for example, is also highly regarded, especially in areas such as business, the arts, and law.

Does New York City have good public schools?

Yes - New York City has many strong public schools, including specialized high schools and highly regarded neighborhood programs. Quality and fit can vary considerably by school and location, though, and some popular options are competitive to enter. Exploring school-specific programs, admissions rules, and student support can help families find an encouraging match.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Public Colleges Ranking in New York City, NY Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Manhattan, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers a distinctly urban setting for students interested in justice, public service, and related fields. It enrolls 13,706 students, with a 57% acceptance rate and 56% graduation rate. The reported total study cost is $14,880, while median alumni salary is $44,813. For a New York City student, its city location places classes and campus life amid the institutions and communities often studied in criminal justice and public affairs each day.

Set in Manhattan, CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College is known for business-focused study and a central New York City campus. It has 20,579 enrolled students, a 48% acceptance rate, and a 72% graduation rate. The listed total cost of studying is $14,880, and median alumni salary is $56,466. For NYC residents, Baruch offers the chance to pursue a degree in a major commercial center, with the city's professional and cultural environment close to campus and part of everyday student life.

CUNY City College, located in Harlem, brings a broad public-college experience to New York City students. Its 16,663 students pursue degrees in a campus setting within the city, and the school reports a 60% acceptance rate and 57% graduation rate. Total study cost is listed as $14,880; median alumni salary is $48,798. Studying here can mean engaging with the academic and cultural energy of NYC while choosing from a large institution serving a diverse urban community in many fields today.

Fashion Institute of Technology, in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, specializes in fashion, design, business, and related creative fields. It enrolls 8,158 students and reports an 81% graduation rate alongside a 60% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $21,692, and median alumni salary is $45,630. For students living in New York City, FIT offers a focused college environment surrounded by the city's fashion, arts, and media industries, making its urban location especially relevant to creative career interests and future career planning.

CUNY Hunter College serves a large student community from its Manhattan campus, offering a broad public-university experience in New York City. Enrollment is 22,712, with a 54% acceptance rate and 57% graduation rate. The reported total cost of studying is $14,880, and median alumni salary is $43,682. For NYC-based students, Hunter pairs access to the city's cultural and professional resources with a substantial college community, making it a practical option to consider while comparing local degree programs across New York.