Lehman College: Courses, Fees and Rankings 2025

Shaping minds and transforming lives, Lehman College has long been a pillar of opportunity in New York City. Established in 1968 as an independent institution within the City University of New York (CUNY), it traces its roots to Hunter College’s Bronx campus, which played a crucial role in educating returning World War II veterans. Today, Lehman stands as a hub of learning, offering a diverse range of programs that empower students to excel in their chosen fields. Whether you’re curious about its rankings, academic offerings, or campus life, this blog will take you through everything you need to know about Lehman College Bronx!

About Lehman College

Lehman College NY, established in 1968, is a vital part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system and has a 37-acre campus located in the Bronx. The college serves a diverse student body of over 12,000 individuals, with approximately 11,217 undergraduates and 1,667 graduate students. International students make up a small but significant portion of the community, with 406 international students. Lehman maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, with an average class size of 17 fostering an environment conducive to personalized learning. It offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs, providing a wide array of academic opportunities to students. Due to the high quality of education offered by the college, it has produced notable alumni like actor Ron Perlman and New York State Attorney General Letitia James, exemplifying the college's tradition of excellence.

Lehman College Rankings

Lehman College consistently earns recognition for its academic excellence and commitment to student success, securing its position among the top colleges in NY. In the 2025 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges, Lehman College is ranked 31st among Regional Universities North, reflecting its dedication to providing quality education. Additionally, it holds the 12th spot in Top Public Schools and is ranked 5th in Best Value Schools, underscoring its affordability and value. Here are some more rankings that collectively showcase Lehman College's programs and their strong academic reputation.

Lehman College Courses

Lehman College offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success across various disciplines. Undergraduate students can choose from majors such as Accounting, Africana Studies, Anthropology, Art, and Biology, among others. For those seeking advanced education, Lehman provides over 40 master's degree programs in fields like Art, Business, Counselor Education, and more. Additionally, the college offers two doctoral programs, further emphasizing its commitment to advanced scholarship. Here are the courses offered by the college!

Undergraduate Degrees

Lehman College provides a diverse range of undergraduate programs across multiple disciplines, allowing students to explore their academic interests while gaining real-world skills. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, these programs prepare students for careers in business, healthcare, the sciences, and the arts. Popular undergraduate programs include Business Administration and Psychology. Here are the undergraduate programs offered by the college!

Postgraduate Degrees

Lehman College offers a variety of master’s programs that provide students with advanced knowledge and specialized skills and is one of the best universities in US for doing a Master’s! Whether pursuing a career in healthcare, education, business, or the sciences, Lehman’s graduate programs equip students with industry-relevant expertise and research opportunities. Popular graduate programs include Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). Here is a detailed list of the postgraduate programs offered by the college.

PhD Degrees

For those seeking the highest level of academic achievement, Lehman College offers select doctoral programs that focus on advanced research, leadership, and professional practice. These programs prepare graduates to take on influential roles in their respective fields through rigorous coursework, research opportunities, faculty mentorship, and many more advantages of PhD courses. Popular doctoral programs include Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership. Here is a list of the PhD programs offered by the college!

Lehman College Tuition Fees

Understanding the cost of attending Lehman College is crucial for students planning their education. As part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, Lehman offers affordable tuition rates, especially for New York State residents. The total annual cost of attendance includes tuition, standard fees, room and board, books, personal expenses, and other essentials. In-state undergraduate students can expect to pay $7,410 annually in tuition and fees, while out-of-state undergraduate students pay $15,360. Graduate students face slightly higher costs, with in-state tuition at $11,130 and out-of-state tuition at $20,220. In addition to tuition, students should also budget for housing, meals, textbooks, and personal expenses, which can significantly impact the total cost of attendance. Here is a detailed breakdown of Lehman College costs!

Lehman College Scholarships

Lehman College offers merit-based and need-based scholarships to help students reduce tuition costs. The Lehman Scholars Program (LSP) provides full-tuition scholarships for in-state undergraduates, while the Macaulay Honors College at Lehman offers fully funded scholarships, covering tuition and academic support. Graduate students can benefit from the Lehman College Foundation Scholarships and state-funded programs like TAP. With partly or fully funded scholarships, Lehman ensures students can focus on their education without financial strain.

An incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides $12,000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of notable scholarships available at Lehman!

Lehman College Admissions Process

The admission process at Lehman College is designed to guide prospective students through each stage of their application, ensuring a smooth and well-prepared submission. Whether applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, students must meet specific academic and documentation requirements to be considered for admission. With a range of programs in liberal arts, sciences, business, and education, the college provides an accessible and supportive application process for all students. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the admissions process effectively.

Admission Process for Bachelor’s Degrees

1. Fill out the Application: Apply online through the CUNY Application Portal.

2. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable $65 application fee is required. Payments can be made online using major credit cards or electronic checks.

3. Provide High School Transcripts: Submit an official transcript from your high school or GED scores as proof of academic eligibility.

4. Standardized Test Scores (Optional) – SAT or ACT scores are optional but may enhance your application.

5. Personal Essay: A well-written personal statement detailing your academic goals and reasons for choosing Lehman College is recommended.

6. Letters of Recommendation (Optional): While not mandatory, strong letters of recommendation can strengthen your application.

Admission Process for Master’s Degrees

1. Fill out the Application: Apply online through the Lehman College Graduate Admissions Portal.

2. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable $75 application fee is required for most programs, payable online.

3. Provide Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

5. Personal Statement: Submit a personal statement outlining your academic background, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing your program.

6. Resume or CV: A professional resume highlighting academic and work experience is required for some programs.

7. Standardized Test Scores: Certain programs may require GRE or GMAT scores. Check specific program requirements.

8. English Proficiency: International applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores if their previous education was not in English.

9. Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs may require portfolios, auditions, interviews, or prerequisite courses.

Lehman College Eligibility Criteria

Lehman College upholds strong academic standards, requiring prospective students to meet specific eligibility criteria for admission. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, computer science, and health sciences, each with distinct admission requirements. Below are the general eligibility criteria for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degrees

1. Academic Performance: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 80% (or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale).

2. Standardized Test Scores (Optional): SAT or ACT scores are not required but can enhance applications. Competitive scores include an SAT score of 1200+ or an ACT score of 25+.

3. English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. Minimum requirements typically include TOEFL: 61, IELTS: 6.0, or Duolingo: 85.

4. Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Though not mandatory, submitting letters from teachers or mentors can strengthen an application.

Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degrees

1. Academic Background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.

2. Standardized Test Scores: Certain programs may require GRE or GMAT scores, while others have waived this requirement. Applicants should check their program's specific criteria.

3. English Proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 79), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or Duolingo (minimum 105).

4. Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

Lehman College Student Life

Lehman College offers a lively and engaging student life, making it an ideal place for both academic and personal growth. Located in one of the best neighborhoods in New York, the college provides students with a supportive and inclusive environment. With over 50 student clubs and organizations, there are numerous ways to get involved, whether through the Business Club, Theatre Club, or Student Government Association. The Office of Campus Life ensures a dynamic student experience by organizing events, cultural programs, and leadership opportunities that enhance campus life.

Beyond the campus, students have access to some of New York City's best clubs and entertainment spots. The surrounding Bronx area is home to popular cafes and restaurants, including local favorites like Prince Coffee House and Bronx Alehouse, providing perfect study breaks. Students can also explore nearby attractions like Yankee Stadium, the Bronx Zoo, and the New York Botanical Garden, all just minutes from campus.

For those looking to escape the city on weekends, Lehman’s location makes it easy to plan weekend getaways from New York. Students often take short getaways to destinations like Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and the Catskills, offering a perfect balance between urban excitement and outdoor adventure. Whether you're diving into campus activities or exploring the city's cultural landscape, Lehman ensures an enriching and fulfilling student experience.

Why Should You Apply to Lehman College?

1. Strong Internship and Career Opportunities

Lehman College provides students with hands-on learning experiences through its extensive internship programs. Located in New York City, Lehman has strong connections with major industries, allowing students to secure internships at renowned organizations such as Montefiore Medical Center, the New York Botanical Garden, NBCUniversal, and Bloomberg. These opportunities help students gain real-world experience, build professional networks, and enhance career readiness before graduation.

2. Diverse and Inclusive Campus Community

Lehman prides itself on fostering an inclusive and multicultural environment, with students from over 90 different countries. The campus encourages cultural exchange and community engagement through various student-led organizations like the Caribbean Students Association, African Student Union, and Latin American Student Organization. Through mentorship programs and diversity initiatives, Lehman ensures that every student feels valued and supported.

3. Wide Range of Academic Programs

Lehman offers a diverse selection of undergraduate and graduate programs across its School of Arts & Humanities, School of Natural and Social Sciences, and School of Education. Students can pursue popular majors like Business Administration, Psychology, Computer Science, and Nursing, aligning their studies with high-demand career paths. The college's experiential learning approach integrates research projects, hands-on coursework, and industry collaborations, ensuring students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Lehman College Placements

Lehman is committed to ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, offering strong career support through its Career Exploration & Development Center (CEDC). The college maintains a high placement rate, with 87% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within two years of graduation. Lehman’s partnerships with leading companies, hospitals, government agencies, and non-profits provide students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.

Lehman graduates secure roles in diverse industries, including healthcare, education, business, and technology, with top employers such as Montefiore Medical Center, IBM, NYC Department of Education, and Morgan Stanley. The average salary for Lehman alumni is approximately $75,000 per year, depending on the field and level of education.

College Notable Alumni

Lehman College takes pride in its alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, including politics, arts, academia, and public service. The college’s dedication to academic excellence and fostering leadership has helped cultivate a diverse network of graduates who have achieved remarkable success and brought prestige to the institution. Here are 10 alumni from Lehman who have made the college exceptionally proud!

1. Ron Perlman (Class of 1971) – Studied Theatre and became a renowned actor, best known for his roles in "Hellboy" and "Sons of Anarchy." 

2. Letitia James (Class of 1981) – Studied Liberal Arts and went on to become the Attorney General of New York, the first African American and first woman elected to the position. 

3. André Aciman (Class of 1973) – Studied English and Comparative Literature and became an acclaimed writer, author of "Call Me by Your Name," and a distinguished professor at the CUNY Graduate Center. 

4. Michael Bacon (Class of 1969) – Studied Music and became an Emmy Award-winning composer and songwriter, also serving as an associate professor of music at Lehman College. 

5. Elizabeth Rodriguez (Class of 1990s) – Studied Acting and became a Tony Award-nominated actress, known for her role as Aleida Diaz in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black." 

6. Eliot Engel (Class of 1969) – Studied Guidance and Counseling and served as a U.S. Representative for New York from 1989 to 2021. 

7. Christopher Reid (Class of 1990) – Studied English and became a rapper and actor, famously known as "Kid" from the hip-hop duo Kid 'n Play. 

8. Andrea Stewart-Cousins (Class of 1972) – Studied Liberal Arts and became the Majority Leader of the New York State Senate, the first African American woman to hold this position. 

9. Ivan Seidenberg (Class of 1972) – Studied Mathematics and went on to become the CEO of Verizon Communications, playing a pivotal role in the company's growth. 

10. José E. Serrano (Class of 1974) – Studied Political Science and served as a U.S. Representative for New York from 1990 to 2021, known for his advocacy on Puerto Rican issues.

Student Housing for Lehman College

While Lehman provides on-campus housing, many students choose to live off-campus for added independence and flexibility. The neighborhoods surrounding the university offer a range of housing options, from shared apartments with roommates to modern studios just minutes from campus.

Well-equipped student housing communities near the university come with amenities like study lounges, fitness centers, and convenient access to public transportation. For those seeking safe and affordable off-campus housing, amber provides a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top off-campus housing options near the college!

1. W 141st St, New York - Located 22 minutes from the university, this property has luxurious facilities like weekly housekeeping, an AC, a smart TV, and much more. This property has a variety of private room options!

2. W 136th St, New York - Just 23 minutes from the university, this property has a variety of facilities like a smart TV, laundry facility, weekly housekeeping, and much more. The property has a variety of private room options for students!

3. Malcolm X 36 - Located 23 minutes from the university, this property has amenities like a cinema room, a community lounge, a gym, and much more. This property has private room options for the students.

4. W 116th St, New York - Just 25 minutes from the university, this property offers a variety of facilities like weekly housekeeping, high-speed Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and much more. This property has a variety of private rooms for students!

5. Lenox 122, New York - Located 26 minutes from the university, this property has a variety of amenities like a cinema room, a gym, coworking space, and much more. This property has a variety of private room options for students!