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Public, 4-year

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

New York, New York · www.gc.cuny.edu

中文

ARWU World 2026

#401

Same as 2025

Acceptance rate

68.5%

2025

Peer median 79.4%

Out-of-state tuition

$15,185

In-state $7,235

Peer median $25,957

Undergraduates

3,486

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 17 : 1

“Peers” are all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The CUNY Graduate School and University Center, located in the heart of New York City, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and research innovation. Established in 1961, the University Center serves as a hub for graduate education within the City University of New York (CUNY) system. It offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, education, and sciences. The school is particularly recognized for its strong emphasis on research, with faculty and students frequently engaging in groundbreaking studies that contribute to both local and global communities. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced research labs and extensive library resources, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their academic pursuits.

CUNY Graduate School and University Center fosters an inclusive and vibrant campus culture that reflects the diversity of New York City itself. The university promotes a strong sense of community among its students, who come from varied backgrounds and cultures, enriching the learning environment. The institution is dedicated to public service and social justice, aligning with its mission to provide accessible education to all. With a focus on preparing graduates for successful careers, the school maintains robust connections with a wide network of professionals and organizations, enhancing students' employment opportunities post-graduation. Notable alumni include influential scholars, artists, and leaders in various fields, underscoring the school's impact on society. Overall, the CUNY Graduate School and University Center stands out as a prestigious institution that not only prioritizes academic rigor but also fosters a supportive and dynamic learning community.

Analysis of Tuition Trends and Student Demographics

The data reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and gender ratios over the years at the CUNY Graduate School and University Center. Tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students increased from $5,975 in 2014 to $7,410 in 2023, marking a growth of approximately 24%. This increase reflects a broader trend in higher education where costs continue to rise, potentially impacting access for lower-income students. In contrast, out-of-state undergraduate tuition also rose from $12,485 to $15,360, a 23% increase, indicating a consistent challenge for non-resident students seeking to enroll.

The enrollment figures show a robust increase in student numbers, with undergraduate enrollment rising from 1,347 in 2014 to 2,793 in 2023. This 107% increase highlights the institution's growing appeal, possibly due to its affordability compared to private institutions. However, it is essential to note that the number of graduate students has seen a slight decline from 5,389 in 2014 to 5,940 in 2023, suggesting a more competitive landscape for graduate education.

Moreover, the gender ratios indicate a significant female majority among students. In 2023, female undergraduate enrollment stood at about 74%, while female graduate enrollment was at 64%. This trend underscores the shifting dynamics in higher education where women are increasingly outnumbering men, raising questions about the implications for future workforce representation.

Overall, while the growth in student enrollment is promising, the rising tuition fees remain a crucial concern. Balancing accessibility and quality education will be vital for the CUNY Graduate School and University Center as it navigates these trends in the coming years.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
New York, about 6 mi
Nearest international airport
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 10 mi
New York, New York
Also known as
The Graduate Center, CUNY Graduate Center, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Joshua Brumberg (President)
Phone
2128177000
City
New York, New York
Address
365 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10016

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 79.4% · all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
60.3%
Women
80.6%

In 2023: men 26.9%, women 21.3%.

Data insights

Analysis of CUNY Graduate School and University Center Admission Trends

The admission data from CUNY Graduate School and University Center reveals significant changes between 2012 and 2023. In 2012, the institution had a 100% admission rate for both male and female applicants, resulting in an enrollment of 18 students. This data indicates an exceptionally accommodating admission atmosphere at that time, likely influenced by a smaller applicant pool or specific institutional goals.
Fast forward to 2023, the admission landscape has shifted dramatically. The male admission rate dropped to approximately 26.9%, while the female admission rate was around 21.3%. This stark decline in acceptance rates suggests that CUNY may have become more selective, potentially due to an increase in applications or a strategic decision to enhance the quality of admitted students. The enrollment for 2023 was just 5 students, accompanied by 112 denials and 30 deferrals, which underscores the competitive nature of admissions in recent years.
The evolving admission rates at CUNY reflect broader trends seen in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on selectivity to bolster their rankings and perceived prestige. As competition intensifies within the academic landscape, potential applicants may need to enhance their profiles significantly to navigate this challenging environment successfully. It is crucial for candidates to prepare thoroughly and stay informed about the changing dynamics of admission processes at institutions like CUNY.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of CUNY Graduate School Admissions Data

The data from the CUNY Graduate School and University Center reveals a significant gap in the availability of standardized test scores such as SAT and ACT over the years, from 2007 to 2023. This absence of concrete numbers raises concerns about the transparency and accessibility of admissions criteria, particularly in an era where standardized tests are increasingly scrutinized.

The lack of submitted scores may reflect a broader trend among universities to adopt test-optional policies, allowing applicants to forego submitting standardized test scores as part of their applications. This movement aims to reduce barriers for students from diverse backgrounds and to focus on a more holistic review of applicants. However, without specific data on the percentage of applicants submitting scores or the range of scores achieved, it is challenging to assess the overall impact of these policies on the admissions process and the quality of the incoming student body.

Moreover, the absence of data may hinder prospective students' ability to gauge their competitiveness for admission. As a result, CUNY's admissions data could benefit from a more comprehensive presentation of standardized test scores, enabling better-informed decisions by applicants. In light of ongoing discussions about equity in education, the need for clarity and inclusivity in admissions practices has never been more crucial. The trends observed at CUNY could serve as a valuable case study for other institutions navigating the complexities of standardized testing in college admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

146 applicants in 2025, 68.5% admitted

100 admitted 46 not admitted Yield 12.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's90720 international (2.2%)
Master's1,244166 international (13.3%)
Doctoral32174 international (23.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Information Science/Studies
161
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
117
Psychology, General
113
Business/Commerce, General
97
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
97
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
74
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
56
Social Sciences, General
35
Physical Sciences, General
34
Sociology, General
33

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Public Health, General · Master's228 (9% international)
  • Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia · Master's84 (11% international)
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's65 (2% international)
  • Psychology, General · Master's62 (10% international)
  • Disability Studies · Master's59 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's47 (9% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Degree Trends at CUNY Graduate School and University Center

The data from the CUNY Graduate School and University Center for 2023 reveals significant trends in graduate degrees across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia stands out with a considerable number of master's degrees awarded, totaling 95, of which 10 went to international students. This indicates a strong interest in digital media, which is increasingly relevant in today's technology-driven job market.

In the realm of Health Services Administration, 91 bachelor's degrees were conferred, with 4 awarded to international students. This reflects the growing demand for healthcare professionals and administrators, especially in light of the global health challenges highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The absence of master's or doctoral degrees in this field may suggest a focus on entry-level education, paving the way for further specialization in the workforce.

Computer Science disciplines also show promising figures, with 81 bachelor's degrees and a notable master's program, although no doctorate degrees were awarded. This aligns with the broader trend of increasing enrollment in STEM fields, as technology continues to shape the future of industries worldwide. The presence of international students, albeit limited, points to CUNY's role in attracting global talent.

Interestingly, many traditional humanities and foreign language programs report zero graduates for both bachelor's and master's degrees, which may indicate a shift in student interests towards more career-oriented fields. This shift raises questions about the future of these disciplines in the academic landscape, as educational institutions adapt to the evolving job market.

Overall, the data illustrates a clear trend towards practical and technology-focused disciplines, reflecting the current societal demands and the importance of aligning academic programs with industry needs.

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

Health professionshas 600 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Audiology/Audiologist.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$61,698
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator.$61,698
Public Health, General.$73,377
Environmental Health.$73,377
Public Health Education and Promotion.$73,377
International Public Health/International Health.$73,377
Public Health, Other.$73,377
Medical Informatics.-
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$116,825-$136,839
Nursing Administration.$116,825-$136,839
Psychology has 253 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$51,486-$79,329
Cognitive Psychology and Psycholinguistics.-
Developmental and Child Psychology.-
Experimental Psychology.-
Behavioral Neuroscience.-
Clinical Psychology.$87,722
Educational Psychology.$87,722
Forensic Psychology.$87,722
Computer and information sciencehas 243 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Information Science/Studies.$68,476
Computer Science.-
Social sciencehas 219 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.$62,923-$87,007
Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods.$62,923-$87,007
Anthropology, General.$76,218
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$53,911-$60,863
Urban Studies/Affairs.$76,161
Businesshas 191 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business/Commerce, General.$68,511
Business Administration and Management, General.$83,815-$86,901
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Labor Studies.$76,035
Communication has 140 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$65,607
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.$68,850
Physical scienceshas 123 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physical Sciences, General.-
Astrophysics.-
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Physics, General.-
Materials Chemistry.-
Cultural has 108 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Near and Middle Eastern Studies.-
Women's Studies.$53,838
Disability Studies.$53,838
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other.$53,838
Liberal arts has 98 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$65,841
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 76 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Museology/Museum Studies.$58,038
International/Globalization Studies.-
Computational Science.$79,439
Biologyhas 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Visual and Performing artshas 63 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
Music, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Foreign languages has 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Linguistics.-
Comparative Literature.-
French Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General.-
Public administrationhas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
Youth Services/Administration.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Statistics, General.$74,186
English has 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Literature, Other.-
Educationhas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Urban Education and Leadership.$119,195
History has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Philosophy has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-
Homeland security has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$95,023

Students

9,536 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 29:71

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,486)

Hispanic
1,143 · 32.8%
Black
1,035 · 29.7%
White
655 · 18.8%
Asian
437 · 12.5%
Two or more races
127 · 3.6%
International
62 · 1.8%

Data insights

Diversity and Gender Representation at CUNY Graduate School

The student demographic data from the CUNY Graduate School reveals important insights into the composition of its population in 2023. The overall enrollment figures indicate a robust community of 5,940 graduate students, alongside 1,785 undergraduate continuing students, 876 undergraduate transfer students, and 5 undergraduate freshmen. Notably, the graduate program shows a significant male representation at 35.9%, while female students constitute 64.1% of the population, indicating a gender imbalance that is common in higher education institutions.

The undergraduate population reflects a similar trend, with continuing students showing 24.3% male and 75.7% female, while transfer students have 27.7% male and 72.3% female. This continued dominance of female students in both categories raises questions about accessibility and support systems for male students in these programs.

In terms of racial diversity, the data indicates varying proportions of different ethnic groups, although specific figures for each group are not fully disclosed. The presence of a significant number of international students also highlights CUNY's role as a global education hub, which is increasingly relevant in today's interconnected world.

Overall, while CUNY demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the gender disparities and the need for detailed ethnic breakdowns suggest areas for further analysis and improvement. Fostering an inclusive environment for all students, regardless of gender or background, should remain a priority for the institution as it navigates the complexities of modern higher education.

Analysis of Age Demographics at CUNY Graduate School and University Center

The age distribution data at CUNY Graduate School and University Center reveals significant trends in student demographics that reflect broader societal patterns in education. Notably, the largest age group among undergraduate females is found in the 22-24 age range, with 367 students, while undergraduate males are most prevalent in the 25-29 category, totaling 120. This suggests that younger students are increasingly pursuing undergraduate degrees, potentially indicating a shift in the age at which students enter higher education.

As for graduate studies, the 25-29 age group shows the highest enrollment for both males and females, with 609 males and 1,145 females. This trend highlights the growing participation of young adults in graduate education, possibly fueled by the necessity for advanced degrees in a competitive job market.

Furthermore, the data shows that older age groups, particularly those aged 30-34 and 35-39, also have a substantial presence, with 958 and 533 total students respectively. This reflects a trend of lifelong learning where individuals return to academia to enhance their qualifications or shift career paths, showcasing the evolving landscape of education today.

Interestingly, the total number of female students consistently surpasses that of male students across all age categories, particularly pronounced in the graduate demographic. This gender disparity may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly achieving higher educational levels than men.

In summary, the age and gender distribution at CUNY highlights a diverse student body, with notable trends towards younger students in undergraduate programs and a significant number of older students pursuing graduate education, alongside a clear predominance of female students in higher education.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.8%

62 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.1%2017: 2.3%2018: 2.3%2019: 2.1%2020: 1.9%2021: 1.9%2022: 2.0%2023: 2.2%2024: 2.0%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 2.4%2025
Graduate students16.5%

1,000 in 2025 · 17.3% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 17.3%2017: 16.9%2018: 17.8%2019: 17.0%2020: 16.4%2021: 15.3%2022: 14.7%2023: 15.7%2024: 16.9%2025: 16.5%
2016Peer median 15.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at CUNY Graduate School and University Center

The data on international student enrollment at the CUNY Graduate School and University Center reveals significant trends that reflect broader global patterns in higher education. Over the years, particularly from 2004 to 2023, there has been a noticeable increase in the total number of undergraduate students, which rose from 8 in 2006 to 2,793 in 2023. However, the proportion of international students within the undergraduate population has remained relatively low, peaking at only 2.34% in 2017 and later fluctuating around 1.9% to 2.2% in the recent years.

In contrast, the graduate program maintains a consistently higher percentage of international students, peaking at 24.63% in 2005 but showing a gradual decline to 15.66% by 2023. This trend may be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies and global competition for talent. The decline in the percentage of international students in graduate programs could signal a need for CUNY to enhance its outreach and support for these students to maintain and improve their enrollment figures.

Overall, while CUNY has successfully attracted a growing number of undergraduate students, the challenge lies in increasing the representation of international students in both undergraduate and graduate levels. This reflects a broader context in which educational institutions must adapt to shifting demographics and global trends to remain competitive and inclusive. As international education continues to evolve, CUNY must strategize to better engage with and support international students, ensuring a diverse and enriching educational environment for all.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$37,445

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$15,185
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$7,235
Room and board
$22,260
Graduate tuition
$23,524
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $39,582 · all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 9% from 2016 to 2025.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$493M

Government grants and contracts
$350M70.9%
Gifts and private grants
$61.3M12.4%
Tuition and fees
$35.4M7.2%
Investment return
$1.9M0.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6K0.0%
Other
$44.7M9.1%

Expenses$468M

Instruction
$206M44.0%
Research
$71.7M15.3%
Institutional support
$56.7M12.1%
Student services
$49.7M10.6%
Scholarships
$33.9M7.2%
Academic support
$24.6M5.3%
Public service
$6.4M1.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.1M0.2%
Other
$17.6M3.8%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$124,819peers $99,308
Professor
$136,266peers $131,740
Associate professor
$116,952peers $101,815
Assistant professor
$97,567peers $87,196
Lecturer
$85,756peers $69,009

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

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding CUNY Graduate School and University Center:

  1. 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 rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.

  2. New York University - With a rank of 35, NYU is one of the largest private universities in the United States, renowned for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for its strong emphasis on liberal education.

  4. Stevens Institute of Technology - This university, ranked 76th, specializes in engineering and technology, offering cutting-edge programs that prepare students for careers in these fields.

  5. Pace University - Ranked 249th, Pace is known for its business and performing arts programs, providing students with practical experience and internship opportunities.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational environment in New York City, each with its own unique strengths and offerings.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 7.2 · all 231 public doctoral universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Aggravated assault
8
Robbery
7
Stalking
3
Motor vehicle theft
2
Fondling
1
Dating violence
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at CUNY Graduate School and University Center

The crime statistics from the CUNY Graduate School and University Center reveal a fluctuating pattern in offenses over the past decade. Notably, the year 2023 marked a significant spike in recorded incidents, with a rate of 1.15 per 1,000 students, the highest in the analyzed period. This contrasts sharply with previous years, especially 2021, which recorded only 0.11 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a drastic reduction in crime that year.

The data indicates a concerning trend in 2018, where the crime rate reached 0.91 per 1,000 students, primarily driven by arrests related to gun possession, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. The subsequent years saw a sharp decline, suggesting effective measures may have been implemented to enhance campus safety and reduce crime.

However, the notable increase in 2023 raises questions about the potential resurgence of crime and the effectiveness of current prevention strategies. It is critical for the university to analyze the underlying causes behind this spike, as it could encompass various factors, including changes in campus policies, student behavior, or even external influences.

In light of these statistics, it is essential for educational institutions to prioritize safety measures and community awareness programs. Continuous monitoring and transparent reporting of crime data not only foster a safer environment but also contribute to a culture of accountability and trust within the campus community. For further insights into crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of CUNY Graduate School and University Center include Nancy Fraser (Philosopher and critical theorist), Maggie Nelson (Writer, poet and university teacher) and Hal Foster (Art critic and Princeton University professor).

See all 24 notable alumni of CUNY Graduate School and University Center →

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.