Top Universities in New York City
New York City, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks and cultural diversity, is not only a global hub for business, arts, and entertainment but also home to some of the finest educational institutions in the United States. In this article, we’ll explore the top universities in New York City, as per the QS World University Rankings for 2021. From Columbia University to the City University of New York (CUNY) system, these institutions offer a rich academic experience in the heart of the Big Apple.
Table of Contents
Intro
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its vibrant academic landscape. Thirteen universities from the city feature in the QS World University Rankings for the USA in 2021, making it a highly sought-after destination for students around the world. The universities are not only ranked within the USA but also within New York City itself.
Columbia University – Leading the Pack
NYC Rank: 1 USA Rank: 7 Founded in 1754
Columbia University, an Ivy League institution, takes the top spot among New York City’s universities. It ranks seventh in the United States and is renowned for its world-class education and research programs. Located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the university boasts a diverse faculty and a significant international student population.
New York University (NYU) – A Global Perspective
NYC Rank: 2 USA Rank: 9 Founded in 1831
New York University, commonly known as NYU, is another prestigious university in the heart of the city. With a strong focus on internationalization and an extensive study abroad program, NYU attracts a diverse student community and offers a unique academic experience. Its main campus in Greenwich Village, known as the Village, is a hub of creativity and innovation.
Cornell University – Bridging Academia and Industry
NYC Rank: 3 USA Rank: 12 Founded in 1865
Cornell University, a member of the Ivy League, stands out for its wide range of academic and vocational courses. It is known for being the first U.S. university to offer a degree in veterinary medicine and for its contributions to modern Far-Eastern language education. While its main campus is in Ithaca, New York, Cornell has a strong presence in New York City, particularly in the fields of financial engineering and architecture.
Fordham University – A Jesuit Tradition
NYC Rank: 4 USA Rank: 121-130 Founded in 1841
Fordham University, often referred to as the Jesuit University of New York, specializes in liberal arts, sciences, and business. With campuses in the Bronx and Manhattan, Fordham offers a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences.
Baruch College – A Diverse Learning Experience
NYC Rank: =6 USA Rank: 151-160 Founded in 1847
Baruch College is known for its ethnic diversity, with students from over 168 countries. Situated in a central location within the city, it offers easy access to Midtown, Wall Street, and numerous corporate headquarters, making it an excellent choice for students seeking internships and practical experience.
CUNY Hunter College – Embracing Diversity and Research
NYC Rank: =6 USA Rank: 151-160 Founded in 1870
CUNY Hunter College, located in the heart of Manhattan, emphasizes diversity and research in its academic programs. With a student body of around 23,000, it offers a wide range of programs that underscore the importance of diverse perspectives and encourage research and creative expression.
Pace University – New York – Theory and Practice in Harmony
NYC Rank: =8 USA Rank: 161-170 Founded in 1906
Pace University is dedicated to the liberal arts and sciences, with an emphasis on the practical application of theory. It enrolls approximately 13,000 students in over 150 majors and programs across three campuses in New York City and Westchester County.
Yeshiva University – Bridging Tradition and Western Heritage
NYC Rank: =8 USA Rank: 161-170 Founded in 1886
Yeshiva University, founded over a century ago, uniquely combines Jewish traditions and culture with Western heritage. The Yeshiva University Museum explores Jewish life through art, architecture, and history. Its main campus is located in Washington Heights, Upper Manhattan, with additional facilities in the Bronx and Queens.
CUNY Queens College – A Global Community
NYC Rank: 9 USA Rank: 191-200
CUNY Queens College is home to a diverse student body of around 18,500 students from over 170 countries. It focuses on enriching the student experience through its network of internship and fellowship programs throughout New York City.
CUNY City College – The Heart of Public Higher Education
NYC Rank: 10 USA Rank: 201-250
The City College of New York, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, is the founding institution of CUNY. Established in 1847, it offers a wide array of programs and has a rich history of alumni who have made significant contributions to fields ranging from science to politics and the arts.
These top universities in New York City offer a diverse range of academic programs, research opportunities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in Ivy League education, internationalization, research-focused institutions, or public higher education, the city that never sleeps has something to offer for every aspiring student.
