Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
Acceptance rate
20.7%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$46,820
$65,910 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
854
Student-faculty ratio 8:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
64.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 83.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, located in New York City, is renowned for its distinctive approach to higher education, blending rigorous academic programs with a strong emphasis on the arts and engineering. Founded in 1859 by industrialist Peter Cooper, the institution's mission has always been to provide a high-quality education that is accessible to all. One of the most notable features of The Cooper Union is its commitment to full-tuition scholarships for its undergraduate students, a tradition that reflects its founding principles of social equity and public service. This unique funding model allows students to focus on their studies and creative pursuits without the burden of tuition fees, fostering an environment of intellectual freedom and innovation.
The Cooper Union is famous for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education, particularly in the fields of architecture, engineering, and the fine arts. The school’s architectural program is particularly esteemed, with a curriculum that encourages hands-on learning and collaboration across disciplines. The vibrant campus culture is enriched by various student organizations and activities that promote artistic expression and scientific inquiry, fostering a sense of community among students. The faculty at The Cooper Union consists of accomplished professionals and academics who are deeply invested in their students’ success, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. With its commitment to excellence, strong community values, and a rich tradition of promoting science and art, The Cooper Union remains a pivotal institution in shaping future leaders in these fields.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rate, and Retention Trends at The Cooper Union
The Cooper Union has maintained a consistent tuition structure for its undergraduate and graduate programs over the years, with tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students starting at $41,400 in 2014 and gradually increasing to $46,820 by 2023. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where tuition costs have been rising significantly, raising concerns about affordability for prospective students. Notably, the graduate tuition saw a dramatic drop in 2024, with fees plummeting from over $38,000 to $26,081, suggesting a strategic shift to attract more graduate students in a competitive market.
Graduation rates have shown some fluctuations but generally remain robust, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 66.4% in 2023, following a peak of 72.7% in 2017. This suggests a need for ongoing improvements in student support and academic resources, especially given the high cost of tuition and the expectations for student success. The 150% graduation rate, which accounts for extended completion time, is significantly higher at around 79.4%, indicating that while some students face challenges, many eventually complete their degrees.
Retention rates have been relatively high, averaging above 90% in recent years, with a promising figure of 93.2% in 2023. This indicates that once students enroll at The Cooper Union, they tend to remain committed to their education. High retention paired with a decent graduation rate speaks to the institution's supportive academic environment, which is crucial in fostering student success, particularly in light of the increasing financial burden of higher education.
Overall, while The Cooper Union faces challenges related to tuition increases and graduation rates, it appears to be taking steps to enhance its graduate programs and maintain high retention rates, signaling a commitment to student satisfaction and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 5 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- The Cooper Union
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Steven McLaughlin (President and Chief Academic Officer)
- Phone
- 2123534100
- Address
- 7 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10003-7120
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 16.8%, women 14.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at The Cooper Union
The admission data for The Cooper Union highlights several significant trends over the years that reflect both the institution's competitiveness and its evolving demographics. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show considerable fluctuations, particularly with male acceptance rates peaking at 19% in 2015, indicating a substantial increase in selectivity during that period. Meanwhile, the female acceptance rate has demonstrated a notable rise, reaching over 25% in 2023, which suggests a growing emphasis on gender diversity in the admissions process.
The enrollment numbers also reveal an interesting pattern. In 2023, the school admitted 183 students, alongside a striking number of 1,163 denials. This highlights the challenge prospective students face when vying for a spot at this esteemed institution, which is known for its rigorous academic standards and a commitment to providing a full-tuition scholarship to its undergraduate students.
Furthermore, the data from 2023 suggests that the institution is grappling with balancing its intake and the number of deferred admissions, which could be indicative of strategic shifts in how they manage enrollment amidst changing applicant demographics and educational trends. Overall, The Cooper Union's admission statistics portray a highly competitive landscape that is gradually becoming more inclusive, as seen in the increased female acceptance rates, while still maintaining a strong emphasis on academic excellence.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 31% submitted SAT, 8% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores and Submission Rates at The Cooper Union
The admissions data from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a dramatic decline, dropping from nearly all applicants in 2007 to just 49% in 2023. This trend may reflect a broader national conversation about the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, especially as many institutions move toward test-optional policies.
The SAT reading scores for admitted students have shown a consistent increase in the lower quartile score, with the 25th percentile rising from 600 in 2007 to 670 in 2023. This indicates that the institution is attracting academically stronger candidates over the years. Furthermore, the upper quartile scores also demonstrate upward movement, suggesting that top-performing students are increasingly drawn to The Cooper Union.
Conversely, the number of students reporting their scores has fluctuated, with notable peaks and troughs. For instance, the number of SAT submissions was at its highest in 2007 with 200 submissions, compared to just 89 in 2023. This decline may correlate with changing perceptions around standardized testing, where students might feel that their application would be stronger without these scores.
Overall, the data reflects an evolving landscape in college admissions, where the emphasis on standardized test scores is being reassessed, potentially leading to a more holistic view of applicant qualifications at The Cooper Union. This trend could resonate with ongoing discussions in higher education about equity, access, and the true measure of student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 2 in 10
1,806 applicants in 2025, 20.7% admitted
374 admitted 1,432 not admitted Yield 52.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Civil Engineering, General · Master's17 (0% international)
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering · Master's15 (20% international)
- Mechanical Engineering · Master's10 (10% international)
- Chemical Engineering · Master's7 (14% international)
- Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD · Master's5 (100% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
The graduation data from The Cooper Union for 2023 reveals notable trends across various disciplines, particularly highlighting the prominence of specific fields in terms of international student representation. The Fine/Studio Arts program stands out with 46 bachelor's degrees awarded, indicating a strong interest in the arts within the institution. However, the only international student in this category suggests limited global engagement, which may reflect broader trends in art education, where domestic students dominate enrollment.
In the engineering domain, while the overall numbers are lower, the architecture program awarded 30 bachelor's degrees, with a significant 50% going to international students. This suggests that The Cooper Union is an attractive option for global students pursuing architecture, possibly due to its renowned reputation and the unique educational experience it offers.
Interestingly, the Electrical and Electronics Engineering program awarded 11 master's degrees, with two going to international students, indicating a growing interest in advanced technical studies. The absence of bachelor's degrees awarded in this field might suggest a trend where students prefer to enter directly into master’s programs, perhaps reflecting the increasing demand for specialized skills in the job market.
Moreover, the data shows no doctorates awarded across the programs, which may point to the need for enhanced doctoral offerings or a potential gap in advanced research opportunities. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of fostering international student participation, particularly in specialized fields like architecture and engineering, to enhance the diversity and global engagement of The Cooper Union’s academic community.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Chemical Engineering. | $83,073 | ||
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $27,431 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD. | - |
Students
933 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 91.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 638
- First-year undergraduates 196
- Graduate students 79
- Transfers and others 20
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (854)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in 2023
The demographic data for the student body at The Cooper Union reveals some interesting trends in diversity and gender representation among different student categories. In 2023, the undergraduate freshmen group consists of 195 students, with a notable gender distribution showing 40% male and 60% female students. This suggests an encouraging trend towards gender balance in the incoming class, which can be seen as a positive development in promoting inclusivity in education.
Among undergraduate upperclassmen, there are 681 students, and the gender ratio is more balanced at approximately 52.7% male and 47.3% female. This shift towards a more equitable representation may reflect a growing commitment to attracting and retaining a diverse student body.
However, when it comes to transfer students, the data shows a stark contrast with only 16 students, where females comprise 75% of the group, indicating a significant gender disparity in this category. This could suggest that female students may be more likely to transfer or that there are systemic barriers that discourage male students from transferring.
The graduate student segment, while smaller at 59 individuals, exhibits a pronounced male dominance at 79.7%, raising questions about the gender dynamics in advanced studies and whether certain fields may still be perceived as male-oriented.
Overall, while there are positive signs of gender diversity among undergraduate newcomers, the trends in transfer and graduate student demographics highlight ongoing challenges that need to be addressed to ensure equity across all levels of education at The Cooper Union.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at The Cooper Union
The age composition of students at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art showcases a diverse demographic, reflecting trends seen in higher education across the United States. The largest age group comprises students aged 18-19, with 182 male undergraduates and 213 female undergraduates, highlighting the institution's appeal to traditional college-age students. This is consistent with national data indicating a strong preference among young individuals to pursue higher education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, as students progress into the 20-21 age range, there is a notable drop in male undergraduates compared to their female counterparts, with 173 males and 154 females enrolled. This shift may reflect broader societal trends where females are increasingly pursuing higher education and achieving higher enrollment rates than males.
The representation of older age groups, particularly those aged 22-24, shows a mix of undergraduate and graduate students, with a total of 91 males and 63 females. This suggests that a portion of the student body is engaging in further studies or changing career paths, which is becoming more common in the modern workforce.
The presence of students aged 25-29 and even older, while minimal, indicates that The Cooper Union is also catering to non-traditional students, who often bring valuable life experiences and perspectives to their academic environments.
In summary, The Cooper Union's age demographics reflect a blend of traditional and non-traditional students, aligning with broader educational trends while also highlighting the importance of supporting diverse student backgrounds in higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
103 in 2025 · 18.5% in 2016
20 in 2025 · 5.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at The Cooper Union
The data from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art reveals intriguing trends in international student enrollment over nearly two decades. The percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase from 7.73% in 2004 to a peak of 20.98% in 2019, before experiencing a slight decline in recent years. This rise in international representation is indicative of the institution's growing appeal to students worldwide, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions strive to foster diverse learning environments.
However, the graduate student statistics present a more fluctuating pattern. Initially, the percentage of international graduate students increased significantly, reaching as high as 26.23% in 2012, but has since varied considerably, dipping to just 5.48% in 2016 before rebounding to 22.03% in 2023. This volatility may reflect changing immigration policies, global events, and the competitive landscape for graduate education.
The global pandemic has likely influenced these trends, as many students reevaluated their educational plans. Looking ahead, the challenge for The Cooper Union will be to maintain its attractiveness to international students amidst a changing geopolitical and educational landscape. As institutions worldwide work to recover from the impact of COVID-19, fostering inclusivity and support for international students will be crucial in ensuring sustained growth in this demographic. Overall, the data underscores the importance of international student contributions to the academic community, enriching the learning experience for all.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$65,910
- Undergraduate tuition
- $46,820
- Room and board
- $19,090
- Graduate tuition
- $28,556
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 10% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$131M
Expenses$96.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
New York UniversityNew York · 0.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 2.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 5.8 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 5.9 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 9.7 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 28.6 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 43.8 mi
U.S. News #2
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 45.7 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 47.3 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League institution known for its strong academic programs and diverse student body.
-
New York University - With a ranking of 35th, NYU is a prestigious university located in the heart of New York City, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a highly regarded women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, focusing on empowering women through education.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - This university, ranked 76th, specializes in engineering, technology, and the sciences, providing students with a strong foundation in these fields.
-
Princeton University - The top-ranked university at number 1 in the 2024 US News rankings, Princeton is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, offering a rich educational experience.
These institutions not only provide excellent educational opportunities but also contribute to the vibrant academic environment of New York City.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at The Cooper Union
The crime statistics for The Cooper Union from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. Starting at a low of 0.85 in 2013, the rate increased gradually until it peaked dramatically in 2020 at 12.61. This surge raises concerns, especially given that the year coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought about unprecedented disruptions and challenges to campus safety.
The rise in reported incidents includes various types of offenses, with notable increases in arrests related to drug and alcohol use, as well as domestic violence. The data suggests an alarming trend in the overall safety environment, particularly in 2018 and 2020, which are outliers compared to other years. The sharp drop in 2021 to just 1.13 indicates a possible return to normalcy, yet the subsequent years remain higher than the earlier part of the decade.
This pattern prompts further inquiry into the underlying factors contributing to these crime rates, including changes in campus policies, student behavior, and external societal influences. The safety of students should be a priority for educational institutions, and understanding these trends can guide effective preventive measures and support services.
Moreover, it is crucial for the community to remain vigilant and engaged in discussions about campus safety and resource allocation to ensure a secure environment for all students. For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 60Notable alumni of Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art include Thomas Edison (Inventor and businessman, known for the light bulb), David Lynch (Filmmaker and artist known for surrealist style) and Jeffrey Epstein (Financier and convicted child sex offender).
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Thomas Edison 1847–1931
Inventor and businessman, known for the light bulb
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David Lynch 1946–2025
Filmmaker and artist known for surrealist style
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Jeffrey Epstein 1953–2019
Financier and convicted child sex offender
-
Russell A. Hulse 1950–
Astrophysicist, 1993 Nobel Prize in Physics laureate
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Emile Berliner 1851–1929
German-American inventor of the gramophone record
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George Segal 1934–2021
American actor and musician
-
Bob Kane 1915–1998
Comic artist and co-creator of Batman
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Daniel Libeskind 1946–
Polish-American architect
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Patty Jenkins 1971–
Director of Monster and Wonder Woman
See all 60 notable alumni of Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art →
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.