Best
Value Colleges in New York City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in New York City offers access to diverse industries, internships, and professional networks. Programs typically cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior, often with opportunities to specialize or complete internships. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or account executive. Popular local options include Baruch College, New York University, Columbia University, and Fordham University, each offering business study within the city.

Psychology

Studying psychology in New York City offers access to communities, research, and internships. Courses cover developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and neuroscience. Students explore counseling, mental health, and organizational behavior. Popular colleges include Columbia University, New York University, The City College of New York, and Fordham University. Graduates may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, human resources specialist, or behavioral health technician; clinical practice requires advanced study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in New York City offers training and access to a technology and finance hub. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue software developer, data analyst, systems engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or product roles. Popular NYC colleges offering computer science include Columbia University, New York University, City College of New York, and Fordham University. Programs may provide internships and connections to local city employers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in New York City typically combines theory with supervised practice serving diverse communities. Courses often cover counseling techniques, human development, multicultural counseling, ethics, assessment, group therapy, and research methods. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, college advisors, or family service professionals. Popular local options include New York University, Columbia University, and Hunter College, whose programs offer distinct specializations and field experiences.

Nursing

Studying nursing in New York City combines learning with clinical experience in the city's hospitals and communities. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and community health. Graduates may work as registered nurses, clinical nurses, school nurses, or public health nurses, depending on degree and licensure. Popular NYC options include NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, and College of Staten Island.

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

• The median total cost of studying is 35,822.0, compared with 63,039.6 at schools in the top 10%, making the reported median cost higher for that group.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 52.73% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 52.73%. Schools receive an average of 14,205.35 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 33,296.5. The median number of male applicants is 820.0, compared with 1,931.5 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,365.0, and the average ACT score is 30.29.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,218.64. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 405.12 and 639.8, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 67.93%, compared with 93.0% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 64.5% for men and 79.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 17 offer associate's degrees, 30 offer bachelor's degrees, 40 offer master's degrees, and 20 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 23 coeducational schools. When choosing a college, prospective students should compare costs and financial aid, consider admissions selectivity and applicant numbers, and weigh academic indicators such as SAT and ACT scores alongside graduation rates. They should also consider enrollment figures, degree offerings, and whether a coeducational setting suits their preferences.

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

For a student pursuing a degree in New York City, the reported average total cost is about $35,566.80, a useful benchmark for planning your education budget. This figure gives you a starting point as you compare colleges such as Columbia University, New York University (NYU), and CUNY campuses across the five boroughs. Costs vary by school, program, housing choice, and whether you commute from home before you choose where to enroll or how to finance your studies.

Reported averages include:

• Tuition and fees average $35,056.27.
• Room and board average $20,494.50.
• Books and supplies average $1,392.72.

The overall figure is not a guaranteed bill: private universities, including Columbia and NYU, may differ substantially from public CUNY options, while living at home can change your personal expenses. Ask each school for its current cost-of-attendance estimate and financial-aid package; scholarships, grants, and in-state options may make a New York education feel more attainable.

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 generally takes two. A master's degree often adds one or two years after a bachelor's, depending on the field and program. CUNY's Baruch, Hunter, and City College, plus NYU, offer local options.

Students in NYC can shorten timelines with AP or transfer credits, summer or winter courses, accelerated programs, or eligible online requirements. Check with an adviser first: transfer rules and course availability can affect graduation dates.

The supplied figures show an average graduation rate of 67.93%, compared with 93% among the top 10% of schools. Rates average 60.69% for men and 71.52% for women. Outcomes vary by college and cohort, so compare NYC schools' completion rates and support services. With a realistic course plan and steady advising, finishing sooner can feel achievable while preserving a supportive college experience for your goals.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in New York City, you can use about $49,814 in median alumni salary as a broad earnings benchmark. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $74,465, suggesting that earnings can vary considerably by school and career path.

New York City offers many options, including CUNY colleges, Columbia University, New York University, and Fordham University. These figures are broad benchmarks, not guaranteed salaries for graduates of any particular school. Your field of study, experience, and the kind of role you pursue can all affect what you earn.

With opportunities across industries such as finance, healthcare, media, technology, and the arts, studying in NYC can put you close to a wide range of career paths. It's encouraging to know that these alumni figures offer a starting point as you compare programs and consider the kind of future you want to build.

People also ask

How many universities are there in New York City?

New York City has more than 100 colleges and universities. The exact count depends on whether a tally includes community colleges, specialized schools, and branch campuses. For a prospective student, that variety means a wide choice of academic programs and campus settings across the five boroughs.

What is the largest university in New York City?

New York University (NYU) is often described as the city's largest individual university by enrollment, though figures can depend on whether students at campuses outside New York are included. The CUNY system is larger overall, but it consists of multiple colleges. Comparing campus and program sizes can help you find the right fit.

How many universities are there in New York City?

There isn't one universally agreed total, because sources may count institutions differently. A useful general answer is over 100 colleges and universities in the city. If you're researching options, checking each school's location and whether it offers your intended degree can make the broad list much easier to navigate.

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

Columbia University in the City of New York is an Ivy League institution in Morningside Heights, known for research, rigorous academics, and a global outlook. NYC students can access internships, cultural institutions, and extensive transit nearby. It enrolls 35,173 students, with a 96% graduation rate and 4% acceptance rate. Annual total study cost is $66,722, while median alumni salary is $70,507. Its selective environment suits ambitious students seeking an urban campus and strong academic networks in the heart of NYC.

New York University is a large private research university centered around Washington Square in Manhattan. NYC students benefit from a campus woven into the city, with access to arts, business, healthcare, and internship opportunities. NYU enrolls 57,275 students and reports an 88% graduation rate and 9% acceptance rate. Total annual study cost is $62,796; median alumni salary is $62,356. Its community and offerings appeal to students wanting a metropolitan experience. Expect a setting, resources, and immersion in New York City.

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art is a Manhattan college specializing in art, architecture, and engineering. Its compact scale - 933 enrolled students - supports a close-knit community near the East Village and NYC's industries. The graduation rate is 81%, acceptance rate is 21%, total study cost is $44,550, and median alumni salary is $47,616. For students, studios, galleries, design practices, and cultural venues are part of the environment. It can suit learners seeking preparation and an urban education.

Barnard College is a women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, located in Morningside Heights. Students study in a close-knit setting while sharing access to many Columbia resources and New York City's museums, theaters, and professional opportunities. Barnard enrolls 3,223 students; its graduation rate is 93%, and its acceptance rate is 9%. Total study cost is $67,602, with median alumni salary of $55,453. For NYC residents, the campus offers a residential academic community amid Manhattan's lively urban and cultural life.

Jewish Theological Seminary of America is an institution focused on Jewish scholarship, education, and religious leadership. Its Manhattan location places students in New York City's Jewish and communal life, with access to museums, congregations, libraries, and networks. It enrolls 316 students, with a 90% graduation rate and a 49% acceptance rate. Study cost is $65,232, and median alumni salary is $58,895. For NYC students interested in Jewish studies and leadership, it offers an academic setting and connections across the city.