CUNY Queens College
Acceptance rate
64.3%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$15,488
In-state $7,538
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
13,464
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
29.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.3%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
CUNY Queens College, located in the vibrant borough of Queens, New York City, is renowned for its diverse academic programs and commitment to inclusivity. Established in 1937, it has become a prominent institution within the City University of New York (CUNY) system, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The college is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, which prepares students for a multitude of career paths and encourages critical thinking and creativity. With a student population representing over 170 countries, the college embodies a rich multicultural environment that enhances the learning experience and fosters global awareness among its students.
The campus also boasts impressive facilities, including modern classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a comprehensive library that supports research and study. Queens College is home to a dedicated faculty, many of whom are recognized experts in their fields, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education and personalized attention. The college's commitment to student success is further exemplified by its robust support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and various extracurricular activities that enrich student life. Furthermore, the college promotes a vibrant campus culture through numerous student organizations, arts programs, and athletic teams, encouraging students to engage actively both academically and socially. Overall, CUNY Queens College stands out as a progressive institution that not only emphasizes academic excellence but also nurtures a supportive and dynamic community for its diverse student body.
Analysis of Tuition and Graduation Rates at CUNY Queens College
At CUNY Queens College, the financial landscape for students has shown a consistent upward trend in tuition fees over the years. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition increased from $6,207 in 2014 to $7,538 in 2023, representing a rise of approximately 21.4%. Similarly, out-of-state undergraduate tuition surged from $12,717 to $15,488, marking a significant increase of around 21.7%. This escalation in costs can be a considerable burden on students and families, especially as student debt continues to be a pressing issue across the nation.
In conjunction with rising tuition, the graduation rates also reveal a concerning trend. The six-year graduation rate for undergraduate students has fluctuated, with the rate standing at about 25.7% in 2023, down from approximately 27.1% in 2017. This decline indicates potential challenges faced by students in completing their degrees, possibly exacerbated by financial pressures and changing educational dynamics.
Moreover, retention rates have also experienced a decline, falling from 86.8% in 2013 to 77.2% in 2023. This drop suggests that a significant number of students may be leaving the institution before completing their degrees, which could be linked to the rising costs of attendance or other personal or academic challenges.
Interestingly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable over the years, though it peaked at 17 in 2021. A balanced student-to-faculty ratio is crucial for maintaining educational quality and supporting student engagement, but the impact of this ratio may be overshadowed by the financial and academic pressures students are experiencing.
In summary, while CUNY Queens College offers a vital educational opportunity, the rising tuition rates, declining graduation, and retention rates pose significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure student success and accessibility to higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 8 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 7 mi
- Also known as
- Queens, Queens College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Frank H. Wu (President)
- Phone
- 7189975000
- Address
- 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Queens, NY 11367
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 46.9%, women 50.3%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at CUNY Queens College
The admission statistics for CUNY Queens College reveal significant trends over the years that reflect broader shifts in higher education. From 2009 to 2023, both male and female acceptance rates have shown a general decline, with the male acceptance rate dropping from approximately 38.37% to 63.87% and the female acceptance rate decreasing from around 41.97% to 74.17%. This indicates an increasingly competitive environment, likely influenced by a growing number of applicants seeking higher education opportunities.
The number of enrolled students has fluctuated, peaking in 2020 and 2023, with enrollments reaching 2,334 in the latter year. However, this is juxtaposed with a substantial number of denied applicants, suggesting that while more students are being enrolled, a significant portion still faces rejection. The increase in deferred admissions also highlights a trend where students are opting to take a gap year or delay enrollment, possibly due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped students' educational paths and priorities.
Furthermore, the overall acceptance rates and enrollment numbers suggest that Queens College is becoming a more attractive option for students, potentially due to its affordability and diverse academic offerings. As the competitive landscape of college admissions evolves, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to develop in the coming years, especially as institutions adapt to changing societal and economic factors.
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 Humanities2 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 · 7% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at CUNY Queens College
The data from CUNY Queens College reveals significant trends in the SAT scores and the number of students submitting them over the years from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has remained consistently high, with most years seeing 70% or more of applicants submitting their scores. This indicates a strong reliance on standardized testing in the admissions process, which is common among many universities in the United States.
The range of SAT reading and math scores for admitted students shows a gradual improvement over the years. For instance, while the 25th percentile score for reading started at 450 in 2007, it increased to 510 by 2023. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores also reflect a positive trajectory. This upward trend may suggest that the college is becoming more competitive, as it attracts higher-achieving students.
Furthermore, the number of students submitting SAT scores has generally increased, peaking at 2,099 in 2020. This spike might correlate with the growing importance of college education in an increasingly competitive job market, further emphasizing the value of SAT scores in the admissions process.
However, the reliance on standardized tests has sparked ongoing debates about equity and access in higher education. Critics argue that standardized tests may disadvantage certain groups of students, while proponents believe they provide a uniform measure of academic readiness. As educational policies evolve and the landscape of college admissions continues to change, it will be interesting to see how CUNY Queens College adapts to these challenges while maintaining its standards for academic excellence.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
22,189 applicants in 2025, 64.3% admitted
14,278 admitted 7,911 not admitted Yield 12.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Library and Information Science · Master's88 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's63 (2% international)
- Accounting · Master's46 (13% international)
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's38 (3% international)
- School Psychology · Master's30 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's29 (7% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from CUNY Queens College
The graduation data from CUNY Queens College for 2023 presents some intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various disciplines. Notably, the fields of Sociology and Design and Applied Arts stand out, with 128 and 120 bachelor degree graduates respectively, highlighting a strong interest in social sciences and creative fields among students. These figures suggest that institutions may need to continue investing in these popular programs to meet the demand for skilled professionals in these areas.
In contrast, there is a significant drop in the number of graduates in the master's programs, particularly in Accounting and Library and Information Science, which only produced 93 and 85 graduates respectively. This could indicate a potential gap in advanced education in these critical fields, especially accounting, which is essential for business operations. The absence of doctoral graduates in these areas may further imply that students are opting for immediate entry into the workforce rather than pursuing further academic credentials.
Interestingly, the data reveals that international students constitute a small portion of graduates in various disciplines, with only a handful graduating from master's programs in Accounting and Library Science. This may reflect broader trends in international education, where students are facing barriers such as visa restrictions and economic challenges, leading to a decrease in the enrollment of international students in graduate programs.
Overall, the data indicates a robust interest in undergraduate programs, while highlighting potential areas for growth in graduate education, particularly for international students and in fields like Accounting and Library Science. As the job market continues to evolve, educational institutions like CUNY Queens College will need to adapt their offerings to better prepare students for the demands of the workforce.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,632-$57,240 | ||
| School Psychology. | $76,381 | ||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | $76,381 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting. | $54,804-$78,977 | ||
| Finance, General. | $52,479 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Actuarial Science. | - | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | ||
| Taxation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | $31,562 | ||
| Economics, General. | $53,003 | ||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $53,003 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $43,367 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $37,036 | ||
| Urban Studies/Affairs. | $47,592-$84,059 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $71,589 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | $34,278 | ||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | $34,278 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $24,790 | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Photography. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $29,252 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $29,252 | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||
| Music Theory and Composition. | - | ||
| Conducting. | - | ||
| Jazz/Jazz Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Library and Information Science. | $61,876 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | $31,666-$73,516 | ||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $31,666-$73,516 | ||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $55,315 | ||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | $34,541 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,994-$58,082 | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,942 | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $36,976 | ||
| Advertising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $39,751 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $43,158 | ||
| Statistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $34,199 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linguistics. | $34,085 | ||
| Chinese Language and Literature. | $34,094 | ||
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| Nutrition Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $44,785 | ||
| Environmental Science. | $44,785 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | ||
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Asian Studies. | - | ||
| Latin American Studies. | - | ||
| Near and Middle Eastern Studies. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Jewish/Judaic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
Students
15,965 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 78.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 9,646
- First-year undergraduates 1,723
- Graduate students 2,501
- Transfers and others 2,095
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (13,464)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at CUNY Queens College in 2023
The demographic data for CUNY Queens College in 2023 reveals a diverse and vibrant student body, with a total enrollment of over 15,000 students across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen account for 2,334 students, while the undergraduate continuing students significantly lead with 10,000. This indicates a healthy retention rate, suggesting that students find value in their educational experience at Queens College.
Interestingly, the gender ratios across different categories show a consistent trend, with female students slightly outnumbering male students in both undergraduate and graduate programs. For instance, female students make up 52.1% of the freshmen cohort and 52.9% of the continuing undergraduate students, while the percentage rises to 71.4% among graduate students. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The diversity within the student body is also noteworthy. While specific details on racial and ethnic breakdowns are not fully available, the presence of various demographic groups suggests an inclusive environment that can enrich the academic experience. The college appears to attract a significant number of international students, further enhancing its multicultural atmosphere.
Overall, Queens College seems to be fostering an inclusive and academically supportive environment, with a strong representation of female students and a diverse mix of cultural backgrounds. This aligns well with current trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly emphasizing diversity and inclusion as key components of their missions.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at CUNY Queens College
The age composition of students at CUNY Queens College reveals interesting trends reflective of broader educational patterns. Among the undergraduate population, those aged 18-21 represent a significant majority, with nearly 70% of undergraduates falling within this bracket. This aligns with the typical age range of college attendees, suggesting that the institution remains a popular choice for traditional-aged students.
As we move into the 22-24 age group, the number of graduate students also begins to increase, indicating a common trend of students pursuing advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate studies. The representation of students aged 25-29 is noteworthy, as it comprises a substantial portion of both undergraduate and graduate populations. This demographic shift may reflect the increasing number of non-traditional students returning to education later in life.
The data further illustrates a gradual decline in enrollment among older age groups, with very few students over the age of 50. This trend may point to barriers faced by older adults in accessing higher education, such as financial constraints or family obligations.
Moreover, considering gender distribution, the number of female students surpasses that of males across most age categories, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 age groups. This observation mirrors national trends of increasing female enrollment in higher education, showcasing a shift towards gender parity in academic institutions.
In conclusion, the age and gender demographics at CUNY Queens College highlight evolving educational dynamics, with a clear emphasis on supporting younger and female students, while also recognizing the need to engage older adults in lifelong learning opportunities.
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.
834 in 2025 · 4.8% in 2016
134 in 2025 · 6.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at CUNY Queens College
The data on international student enrollment at CUNY Queens College over the years reveals significant trends in both undergraduate and graduate populations. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international students among undergraduates showed a gradual increase, peaking in 2006 with 7.65%. However, this trend has fluctuated in subsequent years, with notable declines in the years following 2011. For instance, in 2021, the percentage of international students dropped to 4.57%, its lowest in the recorded period.
In contrast, the graduate student population exhibited a different pattern. The percentage of international students in graduate programs saw a notable rise around 2015, with a peak of 6.78% in 2016. However, this percentage has also fluctuated, decreasing to 4.08% by 2022. The recent data from 2023 indicates a slight recovery, with 5.05% of graduate students being international.
These trends may reflect broader national and global contexts affecting international student mobility, including visa regulations, economic conditions, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fluctuations in enrollment percentages suggest that while CUNY Queens College remains a destination for international students, external factors significantly influence their numbers and representation within the student body. This situation highlights the importance of creating supportive environments and policies that can encourage international student enrollment, which is essential for the cultural diversity and academic richness of the institution.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,620
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,488
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,538
- Room and board
- $17,132
- Graduate tuition
- $21,042
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 10% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$438M
Expenses$352M
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 · East Coast Conference
East Coast Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 70 | 45 |
| Soccer | 41 | 31 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Tennis | 12 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 39 | 38 |
| Soccer | 35 | 20 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 8 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 38 | 20 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 16 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 11 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 8.9 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 9.1 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
New York UniversityNew York · 9.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 10.8 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 18.6 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 36.7 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 38.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 45.6 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 51.6 mi
U.S. News #2
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near CUNY Queens College, along with their rankings and links for more information:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League research university known for its prestigious programs and academic excellence.
-
Barnard College - With a ranking of 11, Barnard is a highly regarded women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, offering a strong liberal arts education.
-
New York University - NYU is ranked 35th and is one of the largest private universities in the United States, known for its diverse programs and global campus in Manhattan.
-
Fordham University - Ranked 89th, Fordham is a Jesuit university with a strong emphasis on liberal arts, ethics, and social justice.
-
St. John's University-New York - This university is ranked 163rd and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on liberal arts and professional studies.
-
Adelphi University - Also ranked 163rd, Adelphi is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and various professional programs.
-
CUNY City College - Ranked 105th, this public college offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at CUNY Queens College
The crime statistics at CUNY Queens College from 2013 to 2023 reveal a significant decline in crime rates over the years. In 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was 2.28, while by 2021, this figure had dropped dramatically to just 0.51. This trend suggests that the college has made substantial strides in enhancing campus safety and reducing criminal activities.
In particular, incidents related to armed arrests and drug-related offenses have seen fluctuations, but overall, the data point to a more secure environment for students. Notably, 2021 and 2022 reported some of the lowest crime rates, indicating successful crime prevention strategies during that period, possibly influenced by the pandemic and the reduced number of students on campus.
However, the slight increase in crime rates in 2023, with an average of 1.48 offenses per 1,000 students, suggests that challenges remain. The rise could be attributed to a return to normalcy post-pandemic, leading to increased campus activity and interactions.
While the college has seen a general downward trend, it remains crucial for the administration to continue focusing on safety measures and support systems. By fostering an environment of awareness and vigilance, CUNY Queens College can ensure the ongoing well-being of its students.
For a detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 58Notable alumni of CUNY Queens College include Adrien Brody (American actor), Paul Simon (Singer-songwriter of Simon & Garfunkel) and Jerry Seinfeld (Comedian, co-creator of Seinfeld).
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Adrien Brody 1973–
American actor
-
Paul Simon 1941–
Singer-songwriter of Simon & Garfunkel
-
Jerry Seinfeld 1954–
Comedian, co-creator of Seinfeld
-
Carole King 1942–
Singer-songwriter and musician
-
Robert Moog 1934–2005
Inventor of the Moog synthesizer
-
Ron Jeremy 1953–
Pornographic actor nicknamed The Hedgehog
-
Stanley Milgram 1933–1984
Social psychologist known for obedience experiments
-
Fran Drescher 1957–
Actress, star and creator of The Nanny
-
Nicos Christodoulides 1973–
8th President of Cyprus
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.