CUNY Lehman College
Acceptance rate
56.6%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$15,360
In-state $7,410
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
11,617
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
26.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 53.7%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
CUNY Lehman College, located in the Bronx, New York City, is a prominent institution known for its diverse programs and commitment to accessible education. Established in 1968, Lehman College is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system and serves a large population of students from various backgrounds, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the Bronx. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strong emphasis on liberal arts and sciences, education, and health-related fields. Its commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its diverse faculty, many of whom are accomplished scholars and practitioners in their respective fields, dedicated to fostering an engaging learning environment.
Lehman College is also recognized for its vibrant campus culture and community involvement. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that enhance the student experience. The college promotes an active student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage student engagement and personal development. The school's motto, "In the Service of Education," underscores its mission to empower students through learning and leadership opportunities. Moreover, Lehman College has a strong focus on student success, with various support services aimed at guiding students through their academic journey, ultimately leading to impressive graduation rates and successful career placements for its graduates. This dedication to student achievement, combined with a supportive community and rich academic offerings, makes CUNY Lehman College a distinctive institution in New York City.
Trends in Tuition and Graduation Rates at CUNY Lehman College
CUNY Lehman College, a public institution in New York, has experienced notable trends in tuition and graduation rates over the years. From 2014 to 2023, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $6,108 to $7,410, while out-of-state tuition rose from $12,618 to $15,360. This represents an increase of approximately 21.4% for in-state students and 21.8% for out-of-state students. Such increases in tuition can significantly impact students’ financial burdens, especially in the context of rising living costs and the ongoing student debt crisis in the U.S.
In parallel, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The percentage of students graduating on time increased from approximately 11.7% in 2013 to 28.2% in 2023. This remarkable growth in graduation rates suggests that Lehman College has been improving its educational support and student engagement strategies, leading to better outcomes for its students. The 150% graduation rate also reflects this upward trend, rising from 34.5% to 53.2% over the same period.
Moreover, the retention rates tell a concerning story. Retention dropped from about 82.1% in 2013 to 70.6% in 2023. This decline indicates potential challenges in maintaining student enrollment, which could be attributed to various factors, including financial pressures and academic challenges. A lower retention rate is alarming, as it may correlate with students' inability to cope with tuition increases or other external stressors.
As we analyze these trends, it becomes clear that while graduation rates are rising, the challenges surrounding tuition and retention need to be addressed to ensure that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees without excessive financial strain.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- Lehman, Lehman College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Fernando Delgado (President)
- Phone
- 7189608000
- Address
- 250 Bedford Park Blvd West, Bronx, NY 10468
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 34.1%, women 40.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at CUNY Lehman College
The admission statistics for CUNY Lehman College over the years reveal significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants has generally shown an upward trend, increasing from approximately 27.5% in 2009 to nearly 47.5% in 2023. Female applicants experienced similar fluctuations, with their acceptance rate rising from about 32.9% to around 60.6% in the same period. This increase in acceptance rates may reflect the college's response to a growing applicant pool, as evidenced by the considerable number of applicants denied admission each year.
Enrollment numbers also exhibit variability, peaking at 1,582 students in 2022. This surge in enrollment despite a high number of denied applications suggests that CUNY Lehman College is becoming increasingly attractive to prospective students, possibly due to its diverse academic programs and supportive community. The rising deferral numbers, peaking at over 10,000 in 2022, may indicate that students are exploring options before committing to their education, which is a trend seen across many institutions in recent years.
Overall, the data suggests that CUNY Lehman College is adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education, with increasing acceptance rates and a strong enrollment strategy aimed at catering to a diverse student body. This growth aligns with broader trends in higher education, where institutions are focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, thereby making college education attainable for a larger segment of the population.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT Scores and Submission Rates at CUNY Lehman College
The data from CUNY Lehman College reveals interesting trends over the years regarding SAT score submissions and the corresponding performance of admitted students. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in the number of students submitting SAT scores as well as their performance.
In 2007, a striking 98% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, with the 25th percentile score starting at 400 and the 75th percentile at 500. As the years progressed, while the number of submissions generally increased, the percentage of applicants submitting their scores started to decline slightly, indicating a potential shift in applicants' strategies or confidence in standardized testing.
Notably, in recent years, specifically from 2020 to 2023, the number of students submitting SAT scores peaked at 1282, maintaining a consistent submission rate of 97%. This suggests a strong inclination among applicants to provide their SAT scores during admissions, likely due to the ongoing relevance of standardized testing in college admissions despite the growing movement towards test-optional policies across many institutions.
The performance in terms of SAT scores has also shown improvement. For instance, the SAT Reading and Math scores for the 25th percentile have risen from 400 in 2007 to 480 in 2023. The upper range for these scores has similarly increased, reflecting a trend towards higher academic preparedness among applicants.
Overall, the data suggests that CUNY Lehman College has attracted a steadily growing number of applicants who are increasingly performing better on the SAT, which could enhance the institution's overall academic profile in the competitive landscape of higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
22,347 applicants in 2025, 56.6% admitted
12,643 admitted 9,704 not admitted Yield 12.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's84 (4% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs · Master's48 (0% international)
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's44 (2% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals with Speech or Language Impairments · Master's41 (5% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's40 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's34 (3% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at CUNY Lehman College in 2023
In the 2023 graduation data from CUNY Lehman College, one notable observation is the dominance of the Psychology program, which graduated 330 bachelor's students, including 6 international students. The popularity of Psychology aligns with national trends, where mental health awareness has surged, driving more students to pursue careers in this field.
Another significant area is the healthcare sector, specifically the Registered Nursing program and Hospital and Health Care Facilities Management. The Registered Nursing program graduated 145 bachelor's students, with 15 being international students, reflecting a growing demand for skilled nursing professionals in the healthcare system. This is particularly relevant as the ongoing global health crises have highlighted the need for a robust healthcare workforce.
Conversely, programs within the education sector appear to have lower graduation numbers, with no bachelor's degrees awarded in specific education-focused programs. However, the Master’s program in Education graduated 88 students, which may indicate a shift towards advanced degrees in teaching rather than undergraduate qualifications.
The absence of doctoral degrees across various fields suggests that CUNY Lehman College primarily serves as a stepping stone for students pursuing their undergraduate and master's degrees, rather than a terminal institution for doctoral studies. This trend could reflect broader academic pathways where students seek advanced degrees elsewhere.
Overall, the data illustrates a clear preference for Psychology and healthcare-related fields, reflecting current societal needs and employment opportunities, while also highlighting potential gaps in the education sector's appeal for undergraduate students.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $47,181-$76,177 | |||
| Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $47,181-$76,177 | |||
| Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management. | $51,087 | |||
| Public Health, General. | $48,172-$58,920 | |||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | $48,172-$58,920 | |||
| Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. | $42,473 | |||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | $43,941 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $109,146-$137,853 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $109,146-$137,853 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,452-$73,693 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $48,452-$73,693 | |||
| Accounting. | $54,075-$74,082 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $43,278 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | $37,812 | |||
| Economics, General. | $50,629 | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $40,187 | |||
| Sociology, General. | $45,386 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $45,547-$64,343 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | $53,988 | |||
| Computer Science. | $49,458 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | |||
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $27,803 | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $27,803 | |||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $27,803 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,352 | |||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $40,618 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $35,082 | |||
| Journalism. | $25,423 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | $50,397 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $37,926 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $50,408 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $36,424 | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $42,088 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linguistics. | - | |||
| French Language and Literature. | $43,231 | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $43,231 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | $41,035 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | $69,093 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latin American and Caribbean Studies. | - | |||
| African-American/Black Studies. | $49,047 | |||
| Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies. | $49,047 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $46,848 |
Students
13,324 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 73.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 7,628
- First-year undergraduates 1,503
- Graduate students 1,707
- Transfers and others 2,486
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (11,617)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at CUNY Lehman College in 2023
The student population at CUNY Lehman College in 2023 reflects a diverse and predominantly female demographic across various categories. Among the newly admitted undergraduate students, there are 1,484 individuals, with women making up 63.1% and men 36.9%. This trend continues with the continuing undergraduate students, where females constitute 67.9% of the total 7,648 students, indicating a strong female presence in the undergraduate community.
When examining transfer students, the gender distribution remains consistent, with 68% female and 32% male among the 1,353 transfer students. The graduate student population, consisting of 1,804 individuals, demonstrates an even larger female majority at 72.2%. This gender imbalance suggests that women are pursuing higher education at a significantly higher rate than men at Lehman College, which may reflect broader trends in higher education across the nation.
In terms of ethnic diversity, the data indicates that there is a variety of racial and ethnic backgrounds among students, although specific figures for 2023 are not provided. The presence of underrepresented groups is crucial for fostering an inclusive learning environment, and the college's mission aligns with promoting diversity.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of addressing the needs and experiences of female students, ensuring that resources and support systems are in place to facilitate their success. Additionally, the college's commitment to diversity is essential in preparing students for a multicultural workforce and society, reflecting the broader demographic shifts occurring in higher education today.
Demographic Insights into Student Age Composition at CUNY Lehman College
The demographic data from CUNY Lehman College reveals interesting trends in the age distribution of students, highlighting both the diversity and the shifting dynamics of higher education. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-21 age bracket, which collectively accounts for approximately 57% of the total student population. This trend is indicative of a traditional college demographic, where younger students typically transition directly from high school to college.
However, the data also shows a significant presence of adult learners, particularly those aged 25-29 who represent about 40% of the total student body. This demographic shift can be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions and the increasing necessity for lifelong learning in a rapidly changing job market. The rise of online education and flexible learning options has made it easier for non-traditional students to pursue higher education, thus enriching the campus community.
Interestingly, while the number of male students is substantial across all age groups, female students outnumber males in several brackets, especially within the 22-24 and 25-29 age ranges. This gender disparity is consistent with national trends in higher education, where women increasingly pursue degrees at higher rates than men.
In summary, the age composition at CUNY Lehman College reflects broader societal trends in education, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diverse learning pathways. As institutions adapt to these changes, understanding these demographics will be crucial for developing programs and services that meet the needs of all students, regardless of age.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
351 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
39 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at CUNY Lehman College
CUNY Lehman College has shown a fluctuating trend in international student enrollment over the years, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has varied, peaking at 4.90% in 2007 and witnessing a gradual decline in recent years, reaching 2.80% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to a variety of factors, including changes in immigration policies, the global pandemic's impact on travel, and the increasing competition among universities to attract international students.
On the graduate level, the percentage of international students has also experienced fluctuations. While there was a notable increase in the percentage to 7.00% in 2014, this figure has since decreased, dropping to 2.49% in 2023. The sharp rise in 2014 may reflect a moment when the institution actively sought to expand its international presence. However, the subsequent decline raises concerns about the attraction and retention of international students, especially in light of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions on higher education.
Overall, the data indicates a need for CUNY Lehman College to reassess its strategies for attracting international students. Building global partnerships, improving student support services, and enhancing academic programs might be essential steps in reversing these trends. As higher education becomes increasingly globalized, it is crucial for institutions to remain competitive in a landscape where international students play a vital role in enriching the academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$37,620
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,360
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,410
- Room and board
- $22,260
- Graduate tuition
- $21,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 11% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 54%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$415M
Expenses$361M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · City University of New York Athletic Conference
City University of New York Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 31 | 26 |
| Soccer | 29 | 19 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 15 |
| Baseball | 26 | - |
| Swimming | 10 | 12 |
| Tennis | - | 15 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 40 | 14 |
| Soccer | 28 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 10 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 14 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Baseball | 18 | - |
| Swimming | 18 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 13 |
| Softball | - | 12 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 53 | 36 |
| Soccer | 28 | 14 |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Swimming | 15 | 12 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 13 |
| Baseball | 19 | - |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Tennis | - | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 5.6 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 5.7 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 11.2 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 11.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 35.8 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 38.7 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 54.0 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie · 56.2 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 58.8 mi
U.S. News #4
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding CUNY Lehman College:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is a prestigious Ivy League research university located in Manhattan. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Barnard College - With a ranking of 11, Barnard is a liberal arts college for women, affiliated with Columbia University. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Fordham University - Ranked 89th, Fordham is a private university with a strong emphasis on research and liberal arts education. It has multiple campuses in New York City.
-
New York University - NYU is ranked 35th and is one of the largest private universities in the United States. It is renowned for its diverse programs and global outreach.
-
Sarah Lawrence College - This liberal arts college is ranked 100th and is known for its unique approach to education, emphasizing individualized study and small class sizes.
-
Yeshiva University - Ranked 105th, Yeshiva University offers a unique blend of Jewish education and secular studies, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape of the New York City area.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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
Crime Rate Trends at CUNY Lehman College
The crime rates at CUNY Lehman College have shown significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in campus safety and student behavior. Notably, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students peaked in 2017 at 1.13, indicating a concerning spike in incidents. This year saw a notable increase in arrests related to firearms and drug-related offenses, which could correlate with national trends of rising violence and substance abuse on campuses.
However, the following years displayed a downward trend, particularly in 2022, where the crime rate dropped dramatically to just 0.07 incidents per 1,000 students. This could suggest successful interventions in crime prevention or changes in campus culture, particularly in response to increasing campus safety measures and community engagement.
The data also reveals that incidents of domestic violence and stalking have remained relatively low, which may reflect increased awareness and reporting of such crimes, as well as supportive resources for victims. It is essential for the college administration to continue promoting a safe environment by enhancing support services and maintaining transparent communication about safety measures.
Overall, while the data indicates some years of increased crime rates, the recent decline in 2022 suggests that efforts to ensure student safety are beginning to bear fruit. Continuous monitoring and proactive approaches will be crucial as the college strives to provide a secure atmosphere conducive to learning and growth. For more information on crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of CUNY Lehman College include Ron Perlman (Actor known for Hellboy), André Aciman (Writer and CUNY Graduate Center professor) and Eliot Engel (Democratic U.S. representative from New York).
-
Ron Perlman 1950–
Actor known for Hellboy
-
André Aciman 1951–
Writer and CUNY Graduate Center professor
-
Eliot Engel 1947–2026
Democratic U.S. representative from New York
-
Oscar Hijuelos 1951–2013
Novelist of Cuban descent
-
Letitia James 1958–
67th Attorney General of New York
-
Elizabeth Rodriguez 1980–
Actress
-
José Enrique Serrano 1943–
US Representative from New York, 1990–2021
-
Lewis Gordon 1962–
Philosopher and University of Connecticut professor
-
Celines Toribio 1974–
Dominican actress and model
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.