Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in New York.
10 Best Private Colleges in New York
- Columbia University
- New York University
- Cornell University
- University of Rochester
- Syracuse University
- Yeshiva University
- Fordham University
- The New School
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Barnard College
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- New York University
- The New School
- University of Rochester
- Syracuse University
- Fordham University
- Vassar College
- Barnard College
- Yeshiva University
- Iona University 96%
- Long Island University 93%
- Niagara University 90%
- St. John's University 85%
- Pace University 83%
- Manhattan College 82%
- Clarkson University 78%
- New York Institute of Technology 76%
- Ithaca College 75%
- Adelphi University 73%
- St. John's University 16 to 1
- Syracuse University 15 to 1
- Iona University 15 to 1
- Pace University 14 to 1
- Clarkson University 14 to 1
- Fordham University 14 to 1
- Long Island University 13 to 1
- Hofstra University 13 to 1
- Rochester Institute of Technology 13 to 1
- New York Institute of Technology 13 to 1
- Columbia University $66,139
- Vassar College $64,800
- Colgate University $64,290
- Union College $63,954
- Cornell University $63,200
- Barnard College $62,525
- Skidmore College $62,398
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges $61,725
- University of Rochester $61,678
- Sarah Lawrence College $61,234
- Colgate University $63,904
- Vassar College $63,840
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute $58,600
- Rochester Institute of Technology $54,176
- Columbia University $52,016
- The New School $49,966
- Adelphi University $44,425
- Syracuse University $43,428
- University of Rochester $41,888
- Bard College $39,780
- Skidmore College
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges
- Iona University
- Niagara University
- New York Institute of Technology
- Cooper Union
- Manhattan College
- Clarkson University
- Ithaca College
- Adelphi University
- Iona University
- Skidmore College
- Niagara University
- Ithaca College
- Manhattan College
- Clarkson University
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges
- St. John's University
- New York Institute of Technology
- Pace University
- Columbia University 4%
- Cornell University 7%
- Barnard College 9%
- New York University 12%
- Colgate University 12%
- Vassar College 19%
- Cooper Union 22%
- Skidmore College 26%
- University of Rochester 39%
- Bard College 46%
- Columbia University 6 to 1
- Yeshiva University 7 to 1
- Vassar College 7 to 1
- New York University 8 to 1
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges 8 to 1
- Skidmore College 8 to 1
- Cooper Union 9 to 1
- Cornell University 9 to 1
- University of Rochester 9 to 1
- Colgate University 9 to 1
- Niagara University $37,180
- Long Island University $38,868
- New York Institute of Technology $42,000
- Adelphi University $43,800
- Iona University $44,328
- Cooper Union $46,820
- St. John's University $47,830
- Ithaca College $48,276
- Manhattan College $48,658
- Yeshiva University $48,800
- Niagara University $14,040
- Manhattan College $21,420
- Fordham University $23,112
- Iona University $23,499
- Long Island University $23,850
- Ithaca College $25,128
- Pace University $25,560
- New York Institute of Technology $26,460
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges $26,583
- Hofstra University $28,260
Key Takeaways
- The independent sector, which comprises New York private colleges and universities, has made and continues to make significant impacts on its economic landscape.
- The cost of education in the best private private school options in New York is an understandable source of concern for many students. Luckily there are a wide range of financial aid options available, from federal financial aid and state-funded aid to private scholarships.
- Aside from direct jobs on their campuses, private colleges and universities in New York are among the strongest drivers of academic programs, particularly in research and development, start-up ventures, and other economic activities.
Exploring New York State’s Top-Rated Private Schools
Did you know that many of the best private colleges in New York State are among the highest-ranked in the United States, if not the world? These rankings are in the best national universities, liberal arts colleges, and engineering schools, too! Columbia University, New York University, Cornell University, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute are a few of the familiar names.
Of course, the State of New York prides itself on a complementary system of colleges and universities that serve 1.2 million students every year. Of these higher education institutions, the independent sector enrolls nearly 50% of these students. Indeed, the best private colleges in New York State play a crucial role in its history and progress!
Making History in the Educational Landscape
The state’s first college—Columbia University—is the top-ranked of the best private colleges in New York. Established as King’s College in 1754, Columbia University in New York City has become one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
As an Ivy League research university, its scholars and scientists have made breakthrough contributions in STEM, humanities, and liberals arts. Among its alums are the country’s Founding Fathers, presidents and US Supreme Court Justices, foreign heads of state, Pulitzer Prize winners, and Nobel laureates.
In 1784, the early Constitution of New York created The University of the State of New York, consisting of private institutions organized into a comprehensive and integrated system. In 1862, Cornell University was selected by New York State as its land grant institution; in it, one student was chosen from each assembly district to receive a full-tuition scholarship.
In 1956, the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU) was created. The CICU represents and promotes the public policy interests of the Chief Executive Officers of the independent colleges and universities in the State of New York. The statewide association comprises at least 100 private, not-for-profit colleges and universities, which educate more than 500,000 students annually.
Impact on Society of the Independent Sector
The independent sector in New York is the largest in the country! This isn’t surprising considering that the Empire State is the leading destination for first-time college students leaving their home state to enroll in private, non-profit colleges.
The diverse, sprawling, and spectacular landscapes of New York, from the urban jungle of New York City to the majestic Adirondack Mountains, feature an equally diverse collection of these prestigious institutions.
With massive size comes a massive impact on society and the independent sector’s culture, economy, and politics in general! The independent sector leads the way in the production of degrees in the fields of STEM, with 52% of bachelor’s degrees and 76% of post-baccalaureate degrees earned in private institutions.
In 2019, the economic impact of the independent sector in New York was $97.6 billion, a 10% increase from 2017. In the same year, there were approximately 432,600 jobs in the independent sector. These jobs included direct on-campus jobs, campus construction jobs, and spillover jobs in allied industries.
Columbia University isn’t the only prolific private college in research and development or R&D in New York State either! Of all the states, New York ranks second with $7.1 billion in total public and private R&D expenditures in higher education.
The private colleges and universities account for $5.5 billion in R&D expenditures—or a whopping 77%. Such is the commitment to R&D that 419 of 505 new patents issued in 2019 to colleges and universities in New York were awarded to private colleges and universities! The independent sector was also the birthplace of 92% of the new start-ups—or 59 start-ups of 62 companies—created by colleges and universities in New York.
Financial Aid Options Available for Students in Private Institutions
But we understand the hesitation about attending the best private colleges in New York—nine colleges in New York are in the 50 most expensive schools in the United States! Fordham University, Cornell University, University of Rochester, Barnard College, New York University, and Columbia University are among these universities—and these are part of our list of the best private schools in New York, too.
But if you’re a savvy student, you will find several financial aid options in the State of New York! Aside from the federal aid program (FAFSA), the most popular financial aid programs include the:
- Direct Institutional Aid Program
- Higher Education Capital Matching Grants Program
- Higher Education Opportunity Program
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Math
- Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program
Look into the DREAM Act and We Teach NY Grant programs, which were enacted into the New York State Budget in 2019. Private scholarships are also excellent options for significant reductions in out-of-pocket costs. Look into institutional scholarships, such as the September 11 Scholarships at New York University and the Tata Scholarship at Cornell University.
Colleges and Universities in New York
On average, tuition at New York’s higher education institutes comes in well-below the national average at about $7,900. Students have nearly 80 public school options to choose from, ranging in fees from $1,000 at the United States Merchant Marine Academy up to $10,000 at the University at Buffalo, the largest public university. However, some of the state’s private schools, such as New York University (NYU), charge tuition fees at a much higher cost.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
Although tuition fees at NYU average $52,000, students who attend this school have access to some of the best programs in fields like literature, business, medicine, communications, and law. The school also boasts famous alumni like Whoopi Goldberg and Jonas Salk. New York also offers close to 40 religiously affiliated schools. Students can expect to pay a wide range of tuition costs at these schools, but have the option to major in fields like social work, law, religious studies, business, and nursing.
They say New York is a place where dreams come true. Here, fashion, culture, food, business, art, and many languages comfortably coexist. While The Empire State’s metropolitan landmarks, like the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, are noteworthy, many forget New York also offers access to the Great Lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and countless cozy cabins tucked away in the verdant Catskills Mountains. Additionally, New York is home to over 200 colleges and universities, making it easy for students to dream big while earning their degrees.
Explore some of the top programs New York higher education institutes have to offer, and make your educational and personal dreams come true.
What are New York’s Colleges & Universities?
- 29 Research Universities
- 92 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 42 Graduate Schools
- 41 Public Colleges & Universities
- 80 Private Colleges & Universities
- 21 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 73 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 47 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000,000/year)
- 36 Community Colleges
- 36 Online Colleges
New York’s Best Overall
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 80 private universities in New York. To be included in the list below of the best private universities in New York, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.
Best Private Colleges in New York
- #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #3 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #3 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
- #3 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #4 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #1 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in New York 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #4 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #1 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #1 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science 2025
- #1 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
- #1 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #5 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #9 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #1 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
- #3 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #4 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #13 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$66K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at Columbia University
Cost of Degree: $65,508Expenses: $19,958Starting Salary: $115,600Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Columbia University known for?
Columbia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Other Rankings
- #10 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #16 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
- #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #1 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #3 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
- #5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
- #10 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
87%
Student body
65K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at New York University
Cost of Degree: $58,168Expenses: $23,927Starting Salary: $78,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is New York University known for?
New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #9 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Other Rankings
- #11 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #11 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #11 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #15 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024
- #17 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
- #3 Best Colleges in New York 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #4 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
- #8 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #17 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
95%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at Cornell University
Cost of Degree: $63,200Expenses: $19,996Starting Salary: $101,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Cornell University known for?
Cornell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #22 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #24 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #25 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Colleges in New York 2024
- #5 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #16 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024
- #2 Best RN to BSN Online
- #3 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
90%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1465/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of Rochester
Cost of Degree: $61,678Expenses: $20,922Starting Salary: $74,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Rochester known for?
University of Rochester’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Rochester’s Online Degrees
BSN in RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #5 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in New York
- #1 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA in Operations Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Accredited Online Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Programs
- #1 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #1 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York
- #1 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
- #1 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #2 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #2 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #3 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #3 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #4 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #5 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #6 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #6 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #8 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
- #10 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #11 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
52%
Graduation
83%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1345/30
Career Outlook for degree at Syracuse University
Cost of Degree: $60,135Expenses: $20,812Starting Salary: $69,200Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Syracuse University known for?
Syracuse University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Communications
- Business
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Social Work
- Education
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Syracuse University’s Online Degrees
BPS in Creative Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BPS in Knowledge Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BPS in Cybersecurity Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #20 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
63%
Graduation
85%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1375/29
Career Outlook for degree at Yeshiva University
Cost of Degree: $48,800Expenses: $20,500Starting Salary: $78,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Yeshiva University known for?
Yeshiva University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #8 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #9 Best Colleges in New York 2024
- #9 Best Research Universities in New York 2025
- #10 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #5 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #6 Best Online Master's in Special Education 2025
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #9 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #9 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #9 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #10 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #20 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
83%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1400/31
Career Outlook for degree at Fordham University
Cost of Degree: $58,082Expenses: $25,199Starting Salary: $67,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Fordham University known for?
Fordham University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Law
- Philosophy
- Business
- Social Work
- Literature
- History
- Communications
- Education
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Grad Schools in New York 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in New York 2025 #4 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
69%
Student body
12K
Career Outlook for degree at The New School
Cost of Degree: $54,371Expenses: $30,750Starting Salary: $55,200Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is The New School known for?
The New School’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Literature
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Education
- History
Most Influential Alumni
The New School’s Online Degrees
BA in Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
84%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Cost of Degree: $60,074Expenses: $19,860Starting Salary: $86,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute known for?
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Business
- Philosophy
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #11 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
92%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1495/33
Career Outlook for degree at Barnard College
Cost of Degree: $62,525Expenses: $21,884Starting Salary: $69,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Barnard College known for?
Barnard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Economics
- Education
- Political Science
- History
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #13 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
19%
Graduation
92%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1482/33
Career Outlook for degree at Vassar College
Cost of Degree: $64,800Expenses: $18,810Starting Salary: $61,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Vassar College known for?
Vassar College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Education
- Communications
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Philosophy
- History
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
68%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1280/28
Career Outlook for degree at Hofstra University
Cost of Degree: $53,330Expenses: $20,218Starting Salary: $59,900Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hofstra University known for?
Hofstra University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Law
- Communications
- Anthropology
- Political Science
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Nursing
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #23 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024 #10 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
69%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/26
Career Outlook for degree at St. John's University
Cost of Degree: $47,360Expenses: $22,348Starting Salary: $62,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is St. John's University known for?
St. John's University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Economics
- Philosophy
- History
- Education
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Online Associate in General Studies #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024 #5 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science 2025 #6 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$50K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
61%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/26
Career Outlook for degree at Pace University
Cost of Degree: $50,026Expenses: $23,226Starting Salary: $66,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pace University known for?
Pace University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Business
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- History
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Pace University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Technology Leadership
Degree Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Professional Communication Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 44
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Forensics
Degree Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #23 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
91%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1470/33
Career Outlook for degree at Colgate University
Cost of Degree: $64,290Expenses: $19,360Starting Salary: $81,100Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Colgate University known for?
Colgate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Education
- History
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #25 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
46%
Graduation
72%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Bard College
Cost of Degree: $60,622Expenses: $20,080Starting Salary: $43,700Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bard College known for?
Bard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
85%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1400/31
Career Outlook for degree at Union College, New York
Cost of Degree: $63,954Expenses: $17,766Starting Salary: $80,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Union College, New York known for?
Union College, New York’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Physics
- History
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Online Associate in General Science #1 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024 #3 Best Online Six Sigma Certification
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
72%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1360/31
Career Outlook for degree at Rochester Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $53,538Expenses: $17,778Starting Salary: $67,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rochester Institute of Technology known for?
Rochester Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Education
- Communications
- Physics
- Business
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Chemistry
- History
Most Influential Alumni
Rochester Institute of Technology’s Online Degrees
BA in Applied Arts and Sciences
- Required Credits: 24
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Applied Arts and Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024 #18 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
48%
Student body
17K
Median SAT/ACT
1215/26
Career Outlook for degree at Long Island University
Cost of Degree: $40,868Expenses: $21,376Starting Salary: $58,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Long Island University known for?
Long Island University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Business
- Anthropology
- Education
- Literature
- Biology
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
72%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1355/31
Career Outlook for degree at Sarah Lawrence College
Cost of Degree: $61,234Expenses: $18,180Starting Salary: $48,000Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Sarah Lawrence College known for?
Sarah Lawrence College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #1 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #9 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #14 Best RN to BSN Online
- #15 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
67%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/25
Career Outlook for degree at Adelphi University
Cost of Degree: $43,800Expenses: $22,456Starting Salary: $63,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Adelphi University known for?
Adelphi University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Adelphi University’s Online Degrees
BS in Emergency Services Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025 #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
74%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1291/30
Career Outlook for degree at Ithaca College
Cost of Degree: $48,276Expenses: $17,959Starting Salary: $57,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Ithaca College known for?
Ithaca College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Anthropology
- Biology
- Literature
- Education
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Sociology
- History
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #13 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$56K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
73%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1280/27
Career Outlook for degree at Clarkson University
Cost of Degree: $56,258Expenses: $20,800Starting Salary: $74,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Clarkson University known for?
Clarkson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #3 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in New York 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBAs in Sustainability
- #2 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in New York
- #6 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #7 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #8 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #10 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #14 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
- #21 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #3 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
72%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1235/26
Career Outlook for degree at Manhattan College
Cost of Degree: $48,658Expenses: $21,740Starting Salary: $70,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Manhattan College known for?
Manhattan College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Business
- Religious Studies
- Physics
- History
- Chemistry
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$47K
Acceptance
22%
Graduation
83%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1460/33
Career Outlook for degree at Cooper Union
Cost of Degree: $46,820Expenses: $22,302Starting Salary: $68,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Cooper Union known for?
Cooper Union’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
55%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1239/27
Career Outlook for degree at New York Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $42,000Expenses: $21,384Starting Salary: $68,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is New York Institute of Technology known for?
New York Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Engineering
- Education
- Communications
- Chemistry
- Business
- Biology
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #25 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #4 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
72%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/26
Career Outlook for degree at Niagara University
Cost of Degree: $37,180Expenses: $15,310Starting Salary: $45,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Niagara University known for?
Niagara University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Business
- Nursing
- History
- Communications
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Education
- Economics
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
57%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1120/27
Career Outlook for degree at Iona University
Cost of Degree: $44,328Expenses: $21,090Starting Salary: $60,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Iona University known for?
Iona University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Chemistry
- History
- Philosophy
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
74%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1305/29
Career Outlook for degree at Hobart and William Smith Colleges
Cost of Degree: $61,725Expenses: $18,910Starting Salary: $62,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hobart and William Smith Colleges known for?
Hobart and William Smith Colleges’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Communications
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Literature
- Education
- Earth Sciences
- Biology
- History
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
26%
Graduation
84%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1380/31
Career Outlook for degree at Skidmore College
Cost of Degree: $62,248Expenses: $19,492Starting Salary: $57,000Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Skidmore College known for?
Skidmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
New York’s Best Private Colleges in Your Area Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Sarah Lawrence College
- Barnard College
- Vassar College
- Cooper Union
- Yeshiva University
- New York University
- Bard College
- The New School
- University of Rochester
- Colgate University
- Hamilton College
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Syracuse University
- Fordham University
- Union College, New York
- Hofstra University
- Skidmore College
- Wagner College
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges
- Manhattan College
- Clarkson University
- Marist College
- St. Lawrence University
Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.