David Go
New York City, a global hub of culture, finance, and innovation, is also home to an impressive array of world-class universities and colleges. Aspiring students from around the globe are drawn to its vibrant academic landscape, offering diverse programs, cutting-edge research opportunities, and unparalleled access to industries. From historic Ivy League institutions to dynamic urban campuses, NYC provides a unique environment for learning and personal growth. This comprehensive guide highlights some of the most prominent universities and colleges across the five boroughs, detailing their unique offerings, campus environments, and key amenities to help you navigate the rich educational tapestry of the Big Apple.
New York University
New York University (NYU) is a prestigious private institution situated in the iconic Greenwich Village, known globally for its robust programs in liberal arts, law, business, and medicine. The campus seamlessly blends with the bustling urban environment, offering students an unparalleled metropolitan experience right at their doorstep. Surrounded by historic architecture and the vibrant energy of Washington Square Park, NYU fosters a dynamic and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. Students benefit from access to world-class faculty, extensive research opportunities, and a diverse community that mirrors the international flair of NYC itself. The urban setting provides endless cultural and professional opportunities, making NYU an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive city education.
Parking options
- ✔ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Columbia University
Nestled in the picturesque Morningside Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, Columbia University is an esteemed Ivy League institution founded in 1754. Renowned for its excellence in medicine, business, arts, and a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, Columbia offers a classic collegiate experience within a vibrant urban setting. Its beautiful campus with iconic architecture provides a serene academic retreat, while its location ensures easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of New York City. Students thrive in a rigorous intellectual environment supported by world-class faculty and a diverse, global student body, preparing them for leadership roles across various fields.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
CUNY, The City University of New York
The City University of New York (CUNY) is the largest urban university system in the United States, with a significant presence across NYC’s boroughs. This particular entry refers to its administrative hub or a key campus location in Midtown Manhattan, placing it at the heart of New York’s commercial and cultural pulse. CUNY is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible education, making it a cornerstone of academic opportunity for New Yorkers. Its various colleges offer a wide range of programs, fostering a diverse student body and a commitment to civic engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the city and beyond.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
The City College of New York
Founded in 1847, The City College of New York (CCNY) is a vibrant public institution nestled in the historic Hamilton Heights neighborhood of Harlem. It is particularly renowned for its strong liberal arts and engineering programs, drawing a diverse and ambitious student body. The campus features stunning gothic-style architecture, providing a classic collegiate atmosphere amidst the dynamic backdrop of Upper Manhattan. Students at CCNY benefit from a rich legacy of academic excellence, a supportive community, and numerous opportunities for hands-on learning and research, all within easy reach of the cultural and professional offerings of New York City.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Queens College, City University of New York
Queens College, part of the City University of New York system, offers a comprehensive educational experience in Flushing, Queens. Known for its strong academic programs and beautiful, expansive campus, it provides a more traditional college setting while still being firmly within the reach of New York City’s opportunities. The college boasts a diverse student body, reflecting the rich multicultural tapestry of Queens itself. Students benefit from dedicated faculty, a wide array of liberal arts and professional studies, and a supportive learning environment. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking quality education with a strong community feel in one of NYC’s most vibrant boroughs.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
York College
Located in Jamaica, Queens, York College is a vital component of the City University of New York system, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The college is committed to providing an accessible and transformative education, serving a diverse student population primarily from the local community and beyond. With a focus on liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies, York College emphasizes practical skills and critical thinking. Its campus provides a welcoming and supportive environment, fostering academic achievement and personal growth. The location in Queens offers unique opportunities for community engagement and access to various internships and cultural experiences.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Pace University
Pace University’s flagship campus is strategically located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, offering students an immersive urban education experience. Known for its strong programs in business, arts and sciences, and health professions, Pace provides a career-focused curriculum with unparalleled internship and networking opportunities. The university’s modern facilities are integrated into the vibrant downtown landscape, with City Hall Park just down the road. This prime location allows students to connect directly with leading industries and cultural institutions, creating a dynamic learning environment where academic rigor meets real-world application, shaping future leaders and innovators.
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Borough of Manhattan Community College
The Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) is a cornerstone of accessible higher education in Lower Manhattan, serving a diverse student body from across New York City and beyond. Located just off the Hudson River, its modern campus provides a vibrant learning environment close to major transportation hubs and cultural landmarks. BMCC offers a wide array of associate degree programs, preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce. The college is praised for its supportive faculty, comprehensive student services, and a lively campus atmosphere that reflects the rich diversity of its urban surroundings.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Hunter College
Hunter College, part of the CUNY system, holds a prestigious address on Park Avenue in the Upper East Side of Manhattan. This location places it amidst some of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions and residential areas. Hunter is celebrated for its strong liberal arts and sciences programs, attracting a bright and ambitious student population. The college offers a blend of historic charm and modern academic facilities, providing a rigorous yet nurturing environment. Students benefit from access to exceptional faculty, a rich curriculum, and the vast resources of New York City, making it a compelling choice for a high-quality urban education.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid street parking
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
The Rockefeller University
The Rockefeller University, located on a serene campus along York Avenue in the Upper East Side, is a world-renowned graduate university dedicated exclusively to biomedical research. It stands as a beacon of scientific discovery, attracting leading scientists and promising students globally. The university’s atmosphere is one of intense intellectual curiosity and collaborative innovation, often leading to groundbreaking discoveries that impact global health. Students pursuing advanced degrees are immersed in a dynamic research environment, benefiting from state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from Nobel laureates and other distinguished faculty. It’s a unique institution for those committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Baruch College
Baruch College, a senior college of the City University of New York, is strategically located on Lexington Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, making it a hub for business and public affairs education. Renowned for its Zicklin School of Business, the college offers exceptional programs in finance, accounting, and marketing, alongside strong liberal arts and sciences. Its urban campus is integrated into the vibrant Kips Bay neighborhood, providing students with immediate access to major corporations, financial institutions, and cultural landmarks. Baruch fosters a professional and ambitious atmosphere, preparing students for successful careers in New York City’s competitive landscape and beyond.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
City University of New York
This CUNY location on West 41st Street positions a significant branch of the City University of New York system within the bustling Midtown Manhattan area, specifically Hell’s Kitchen. While perhaps not a full campus in itself, it represents a crucial presence for CUNY in a highly accessible and commercially vibrant part of the city. It offers specialized programs or administrative functions that benefit from proximity to business and cultural centers. Students and staff here benefit from being steps away from major transportation, iconic theaters, and a diverse range of dining and entertainment options, embodying the dynamic urban experience CUNY often provides.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Metropolitan College of New York
The Metropolitan College of New York (MCNY) is located on West Street in Lower Manhattan, offering a unique and practical approach to higher education with its ‘Purpose-Centered Education’ model. Situated near the historic 9/11 Memorial & Museum and Brookfield Place, the college is immersed in a dynamic environment that offers unparalleled access to major businesses and cultural institutions. MCNY focuses on providing a transformative education that combines theory with real-world application, empowering students to achieve personal and professional success. Its strong ties to the community and commitment to social impact make it an inspiring choice for career-focused individuals seeking an authentic New York experience.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Fashion Institute of Technology
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), a part of the State University of New York, is a premier institution located in the heart of Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. Renowned globally for its programs in fashion, art, design, business, and technology, FIT attracts creative and ambitious students. The campus is a vibrant hub of innovation, mirroring the fast-paced and trend-setting atmosphere of the fashion industry itself. Students benefit from hands-on learning, industry-connected faculty, and unparalleled access to New York City’s fashion houses, design studios, and cultural institutions, providing an exceptional launchpad for careers in creative fields.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
The King’s College
The King’s College is a distinctive Christian liberal arts college situated on Broadway in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. It offers a unique educational experience focused on a classical curriculum and a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and Christian worldview. The college’s prime location provides students with direct exposure to the financial and political centers of New York City, offering exceptional opportunities for internships and professional development. With a close-knit community and a commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth, The King’s College attracts students who seek to integrate their faith with rigorous academic pursuits in a vibrant urban environment.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
John Jay College of Criminal Justice, a senior college of the City University of New York, is uniquely positioned on West 59th Street, on the edge of Hell’s Kitchen and Midtown West. It is globally recognized for its exceptional programs in criminal justice, forensic science, public administration, and related fields. The college offers a vibrant and focused academic environment, attracting students passionate about justice and public service. Its urban location provides unparalleled access to legal institutions, government agencies, and diverse communities, offering rich internship and career opportunities. John Jay fosters a rigorous intellectual atmosphere dedicated to inquiry, action, and building a more just society.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Berkeley College New York City Midtown Campus
Berkeley College’s Midtown Manhattan campus on East 43rd Street places students at the epicenter of New York City’s business and cultural world. This campus offers career-focused education with programs in business, healthcare, and professional studies, designed to meet the demands of today’s job market. Its prime location near Bryant Park provides students with excellent access to leading corporations, diverse industries, and extensive networking opportunities. Berkeley College is known for its practical, hands-on learning approach and personalized support, helping students gain the skills and experience needed for immediate career entry or advancement in the dynamic NYC environment.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Hostos Community College
Hostos Community College, a vital institution of the CUNY system, is located on the Grand Concourse in the vibrant Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx. Dedicated to empowering its diverse student body, Hostos offers a wide range of associate degree programs and certificate courses, with a strong focus on academic excellence and community engagement. The college provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment, preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions or successful careers. Its presence in the Bronx makes it a crucial resource for local residents, fostering educational attainment and contributing significantly to the borough’s growth and development.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
New York City College of Technology
New York City College of Technology (City Tech), part of the CUNY system, is located on Jay Street in the thriving Downtown Brooklyn area. As New York’s leading public college of technology, it offers career-focused associate and baccalaureate degrees in technology, health sciences, and design. The college provides a dynamic and practical learning environment, preparing students with the skills demanded by today’s industries. Its proximity to diverse technology firms, creative agencies, and cultural venues in Brooklyn offers extensive internship and employment opportunities, making City Tech an excellent choice for students seeking a hands-on, professionally relevant education in a rapidly developing urban center.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Barnard College
Barnard College is a highly selective women’s liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, located in the vibrant Morningside Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan. This unique affiliation allows Barnard students to enjoy the resources of an Ivy League university while benefiting from the intimate, supportive environment of a women’s college. The campus exudes a strong sense of community and intellectual curiosity, fostering empowerment and leadership. With a commitment to academic rigor and an emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Barnard prepares its graduates to thrive in a complex world, all within the rich cultural and professional landscape of New York City.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
NYU College of Dentistry
The NYU College of Dentistry, situated on East 24th Street in the Kips Bay area of Manhattan, is a premier institution for dental education, research, and patient care. As part of New York University, it benefits from the broader university’s resources while maintaining its specialized focus. The college operates extensive clinics, providing essential dental services to the community and offering students unparalleled hands-on clinical experience. Its urban location in Midtown Manhattan ensures access to a diverse patient population and strong ties to leading healthcare institutions. NYU College of Dentistry is dedicated to advancing oral health and training the next generation of dental professionals in a dynamic, high-volume environment.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Empire State University at Manhattan
Empire State University at Manhattan offers flexible and accessible higher education options from its location on Park Avenue in Midtown South. Part of the broader SUNY Empire State University system, this campus caters to adult learners and working professionals seeking to advance their careers through online and hybrid programs. The university emphasizes personalized learning, offering degree programs that can be tailored to individual needs and schedules. Its Midtown location provides convenient access for students across the city and connects them to the vast professional network of New York, making it an ideal choice for those balancing work, life, and academic pursuits.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
The State University of New York
This location represents a presence of The State University of New York (SUNY) system in the vibrant Garment District of Midtown West. While not a full academic campus, it likely serves as an administrative office, specialized program center, or extension facility, providing a critical link to the vast SUNY network for students and stakeholders in New York City. Its central location near the Port Authority Bus Terminal offers unparalleled accessibility, connecting it to a wide range of academic and professional opportunities across the city and state. This presence underscores SUNY’s commitment to serving the diverse educational needs of New Yorkers.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
St. Joseph’s University, New York – Brooklyn
St. Joseph’s University, New York – Brooklyn Campus, located on Clinton Avenue in the historic Clinton Hill neighborhood, offers a distinguished liberal arts education with a commitment to intellectual, spiritual, and social development. The charming campus is known for its beautiful architecture and supportive community, providing a nurturing environment for students pursuing a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its Brooklyn location offers students a unique blend of a traditional campus experience with easy access to the borough’s vibrant arts scene, diverse communities, and professional opportunities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a holistic education in a dynamic urban setting.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
New York City truly stands as a beacon for higher education, offering an unparalleled selection of universities and colleges that cater to every academic interest and ambition. Each institution, whether nestled in historic Greenwich Village or soaring amidst Midtown skyscrapers, contributes to the city’s dynamic intellectual energy. With diverse academic programs, rich cultural experiences, and countless opportunities for professional development, NYC’s colleges and universities provide an exceptional foundation for future success. Choosing to study in New York City is not just an academic decision; it’s an immersion into a vibrant, ever-evolving world where education extends far beyond the classroom.
