Best
Colleges in New York in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in New York offers access to a diverse economy and professional networks. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, operations, and data analysis. Students develop leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills through projects and internships. Popular colleges include New York University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Baruch College, and Fordham University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, financial associate, operations manager, or human resources specialist positions.

Psychology

Studying psychology in New York offers access to communities and research opportunities. Typical coursework includes developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and neuroscience. Programs may combine learning with internships in clinics or community organizations. Popular choices include New York University, Columbia University, CUNY Hunter College, Fordham University, and the University at Buffalo. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or counselor after further training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in New York combines rigorous technical training with access to a vibrant technology industry. Students typically study programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Popular choices include Columbia University, New York University, Cornell University, Stony Brook University, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, systems engineers, and research assistants, working across startups, finance, healthcare, media, and technology companies.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in New York combines coursework with fieldwork. Students study counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural practice, crisis intervention, and group counseling, then complete a practicum or internship. Popular New York colleges offering counseling degrees include New York University, Columbia University, Fordham University, St. John's University, and SUNY campuses. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed mental health counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or substance use counselors, depending on degree requirements and licensure.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in New York combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students typically take courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals. Programs also emphasize patient safety, ethics, and evidence-based care. Graduates may become registered nurses, working in hospitals, clinics, schools, or long-term care facilities. Popular study options include New York University, Columbia University, Stony Brook University, and the University at Buffalo.

Best Colleges in New York Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 18,084.0, compared with 58,098.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure substantially higher.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 68.4% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 68.4%. Schools receive an average of 8,636.0 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 23,835.8 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,086.0 men and 1,990.0 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,237.52, and the average ACT score is 28.0.
• Schools average 4,461.06 enrolled students, including averages of 342.63 men and 503.26 women.
• The average graduation rate is 56.79%, compared with 83.0% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 54.0% for men and 67.0% for women.
• There are 104 institutions offering associate's degrees, 202 offering bachelor's degrees, 152 offering master's degrees, and 58 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 153 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs and financial aid alongside admissions figures, academic measures, enrollment, and graduation rates. Consider how the overall averages differ from those for top 10% schools, and weigh the degree options and coeducational availability against your own priorities.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in New York is $26,894.04. Average tuition and fees are $26,158.96, while room and board average $14,885.49 and books and supplies average $1,114.04. These figures are useful starting points, but the listed categories do not add up to the reported total, so treat the total as a broad benchmark rather than a guaranteed bill.

For a New York student, your actual degree cost will depend on the college, program, and housing choice. Comparing options such as New York University, Columbia University, and SUNY campuses can help you find a setting that fits your goals and budget. Living with family or choosing campus housing can change expenses substantially; books and supplies also vary by major. Ask each school for its cost-of-attendance estimate and financial-aid package. Scholarships, grants, and eligible aid can make studying in New York feel more manageable and bring the amount you pay below the published average.

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

Most bachelor's degree programs in New York take about four years of full-time study; associate degrees typically take two. At universities such as NYU and Cornell, and public options including CUNY and SUNY campuses, the timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full or part time.

Graduation rates offer a useful reality check: New York's average is 56.79%, while the average among the top 10% of schools is 83.0%. Average rates are 52.48% for men and 65.36% for women. Finishing is achievable, but not automatic; a manageable schedule and academic advising can help you stay on track.

• Finish faster by bringing eligible AP, IB, or transfer credits; confirm acceptance with your college.
• Summer or winter courses and year-round enrollment can help you complete requirements sooner, when your schedule and budget allow.
• Consider accelerated or combined-degree options where offered, and check prerequisites before enrolling.

Salary

After graduating from college in New York, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $46,890. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $73,206, offering an encouraging example of the earning potential a degree can bring.

Your own earnings may vary depending on your field, experience, and school. New York offers a wide range of options, from New York University and Columbia University in New York City to Cornell University, SUNY campuses, and CUNY colleges. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a degree that fits both your interests and your goals.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in New York?

By total student enrollment, three of New York State's largest individual institutions are New York University, Columbia University, and the University at Buffalo. Recent enrollment figures put NYU at about 62,000 students, Columbia at roughly 35,000, and Buffalo at around 32,000. Numbers vary by year and by whether graduate students are included.

How many colleges are there in New York?

New York has roughly 270 colleges and universities, though the exact count depends on what is included. Some tallies count only degree-granting institutions, while others also include specialized schools or count separate campuses individually. For a prospective student, the state offers a wide range of public and private options across large cities and smaller communities.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in New York Ranking in 2026-2027

Columbia University in the City of New York enrolls 35,173 students and reports a 96% graduation rate, alongside a highly selective 4% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $66,722, while median alumni salary is $70,507. Located in Manhattan, Columbia offers a distinctly urban New York experience, with access to cultural institutions, internships, and professional networks. For students seeking a rigorous university in the city, its outcomes and setting may be compelling, though admission is exceptionally competitive for prospective applicants.

Cornell University enrolls 26,561 students, with a 95% graduation rate and 9% acceptance rate. Its cost of study is $68,380, and median alumni salary is $73,206. Based in Ithaca, Cornell gives New York students a different experience from the state's cities: a residential campus in the Finger Lakes region, while staying in-state. Known as a broad, research-oriented university, it may suit students wanting academic range and campus life, but applicants should weigh cost, selectivity, and distance from downstate networks.

University of Rochester enrolls 11,211 students and has an 85% graduation rate, with a 40% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $65,870; median alumni salary is $69,780. Located in Rochester, the university offers a New York State option outside the high-cost, fast-paced downstate corridor. It is known for a research-focused academic environment and a compact university community. For New York applicants, it may balance selectivity and strong reported outcomes, though its listed cost deserves comparison with financial aid offers.

New York University enrolls 57,275 students, reports an 88% graduation rate, and admits 9% of applicants. Its total cost of study is $62,796, with a median alumni salary of $62,356. NYU's New York City setting places students amid neighborhoods, arts, businesses, and transit, making city life part of the learning experience. Its large student population can offer breadth and activity, while prospective students should consider the expense of studying in Manhattan and compare financial aid carefully against expected career outcomes.

Stony Brook University has 27,200 enrolled students, a 76% graduation rate, and a 49% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $28,880, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $47,397. Located on Long Island, it offers New York students a public-university setting outside the city, with regional rail connections to New York City. Its comparatively accessible admissions and lower listed cost may appeal to budget-conscious applicants, who should still assess personal expenses and program fit carefully.