The City College of New York: Campus Life, Courses & More!

The City College of New York (CCNY) is one of the top schools in the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Known for strong academics and a diverse campus, CCNY offers students a chance to explore a wide range of subjects from engineering and architecture to medicine, the arts, and sciences.

CCNY’s professors are experts in their fields, and many hold the highest degrees available. The student body is just as impressive, creating a campus that feels both inclusive and global. The student-faculty ratio is 14:1.

CCNY’s 36-acre campus is known for its historic Neo-Gothic architecture. The Princeton Review ranks it among the best colleges in the country for undergraduates. With a focus on student success, leadership, sustainability, and community involvement, CCNY is a strong choice for students ready to make an impact.

About City College of New York

The City College of New York was founded in 1847 as the Free Academy of the City of New York, created to offer high-quality education to children of immigrants and the working class, based on merit, not money. This bold mission made CCNY one of the first colleges in the country to focus on inclusivity and social mobility, values that still define the school today.

CCNY continues to stand out for its commitment to academic excellence and affordable education. With more than 16,000 students from over 150 countries, the campus reflects the global energy of New York City and offers a welcoming, diverse community for learners of all backgrounds. You should visit CCNY Career Services early to make the most of your time at college.

Beyond academics, students enjoy a lively campus life with more than 100 clubs. The CCNY athletics department supports 16 varsity sports teams of the most popular sports in the US, a modern fitness center, and spaces dedicated to collaboration and creativity. You can download the CCNY campus map from the college’s website before your visit. 

College Rankings:

According to U.S. News & World Report, CCNY ranks:

• #121 among National Universities (tie)

• #61 among Top Public Schools (tie)

• #117 in Best Value Schools

On the global stage, CCNY is ranked in the #1001–1200 range in the QS World University Rankings.

City College of New York Courses

The City College of New York offers a wide range of academic programs designed to help students grow, explore their interests, and prepare for rewarding careers. With over 115 undergraduate and graduate programs and CCNY online courses, CCNY combines strong academics with access to research, professional development, and real-world experience.

Undergraduate Courses and Majors

CCNY offers a diverse set of undergraduate programs through its eight schools and divisions. Students can choose from traditional disciplines as well as specialized areas that reflect the college’s commitment to innovation and inclusion. Many students choose the CCNY nursing program for its affordable tuition and hands-on clinical experience. 

Popular programs include:

• Engineering: Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechanical

• Architecture

• Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Earth and Atmospheric Science

• Social Sciences: Psychology, Political Science, Sociology, Economics

• Humanities and the Arts: English, History, Philosophy, Art, Music, Theatre

• Computer Science

• Media and Communication Arts

• Cultural and Interdisciplinary Studies: Black Studies, Latin American & Latino Studies, and more

Graduate and Professional Programs

CCNY also offers more than 60 graduate programs, ranging from master’s degrees to doctoral and advanced certificate options. Students can pursue degrees such as:

• Master of Arts (MA)

• Master of Science (MS)

• Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

• Master of Engineering (ME)

• Master of Architecture (MArch)

• Master of Urban Planning (MUP)

• Master of Public Administration (MPA)

• Doctoral degrees (Ph.D.)

• Advanced Certificates

City College of New York Admissions

Before applying to the City College of New York, it’s helpful to understand the college’s admission criteria for both undergraduate and graduate students. This section outlines the key requirements to guide prospective applicants through the process.

Undergraduate Requirements

To apply as a freshman undergraduate student at CCNY, you’ll need to submit:

• A completed application with a $65 non-refundable fee

• Official secondary school transcripts

• Official university transcripts (if applicable)

• Certified English translations for all academic documents not in English

• Proof of English proficiency if your native language is not English

• Credential evaluation (for international students) from one of the following approved services:
  Education Credential Evaluators (ECE)Evaluation Service Inc.Josef Silny & AssociatesTranscript Research

• Note: CCNY does not accept evaluations from WES or Globe

• Minimum English Proficiency Scores:

Graduate Requirements

If you're applying to a graduate program at the City College of New York, here’s what you need to know before you get started.

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent foreign degree

• A strong background in the intended field of study, usually the equivalent of an undergraduate major in that area

• International applicants will have their academic credentials evaluated based on their country’s education system and completed coursework.

• A non-refundable $75 application fee

• A personal statement explaining your goals and interest in the program

• Two letters of recommendation (some programs may require three)

• Unofficial transcripts must be uploaded during the application process for review

• Official transcripts are required upon admission and enrollment

• Copies of original transcripts (with certified English translations if not in English)

• Proof of degree conferral

• A course-by-course evaluation report from a NACES-approved credential evaluation agency (this report can also serve as the translation)

• Some graduate programs may ask for additional materials like Portfolios, Auditions, Interviews, GRE scores (if required by the specific program)

• English Proficiency Tests (for non-native English speakers)

City College of New York Application Deadlines

If you’re planning to apply to the City College of New York, it’s important to know the CCNY application deadline.

Undergraduate Deadlines:

Graduate Deadlines:

Below is a table of key graduate program deadlines at CCNY for Fall 2025, based on the official university website:

Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture:

Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership

CUNY School of Medicine

Division of Science

Grove School of Engineering

How to Apply to City College of New York 

With a competitive City College of New York acceptance rate of 61%, so it’s a good idea to apply early and make your application strong. Here’s a quick and simple guide to help you with the process.

1. Select Your Program: Look at City College of New York’s list of undergraduate and graduate programs. Then choose the one that fits your academic and career goals.

2. Track Deadlines: Write down important dates for applications and documents. Make sure you know if you're applying for the Fall or Spring term and submit everything on time.

3. Submit Your Application: Fill out the online form and pay the application fee.

4. Send Your Documents: Upload all the materials you need, like transcripts or test scores.

5. Check Your Status: Log in to the CCNY Applicant Portal to see updates on your application.

Tuition Fees for City College of New York

Understanding the City College of New York cost is an important step when planning your education. Tuition varies depending on whether you are a New York State resident or an out-of-state student. Below is a breakdown of the current fees to help you plan your budget more effectively.

Undergraduate Tuition

Graduate Tuition

Doctoral Tuition

Scholarship Opportunities at City College of New York

Paying for college can be challenging, but CCNY financial aid and CCNY scholarships help make education more affordable.

Best Student Housing Near City College of New York 

Living near the City College of New York means you're in the heart of Harlem, New York City’s best neighborhoods, with easy access to classes, labs, and student life. CCNY off-campus housing that’s just a short walk from campus. Students can pick from different room types and enjoy cool extras like free Wi-Fi, laundry, a gym, and outdoor areas for sports or barbecues.

If you prefer to live off-campus, amber helps students find verified, affordable housing options near CCNY. From shared apartments to private rooms, Amber connects you with student-friendly spaces that fit your needs and budget.

Here are some popular student housing options near City College of New York:

• Park Avenue East Home, New York 

• W 136th St, New York 

• Morningside Park 2, New York

• Manhattan Central Park Home – 1, New York

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