SUNY College at Old Westbury
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#154
Acceptance rate
83.6%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$18,842
In-state $8,372
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,260
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
32.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
SUNY Old Westbury, located in the scenic town of Old Westbury, New York, is a vibrant public liberal arts college that is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Established in 1965, the college embodies a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. With a picturesque campus set on 604 acres of lush greenery, students enjoy a serene environment conducive to learning and personal growth. The college is particularly known for its diverse student body and inclusive atmosphere, which fosters a sense of belonging among students from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on liberal arts, business, education, and science. Through its innovative curriculum and dedicated faculty, SUNY Old Westbury emphasizes experiential learning and critical thinking, preparing students for successful careers and active citizenship. The college's commitment to sustainability and social justice is reflected in its various initiatives and programs, which encourage students to engage in community service and global awareness. Additionally, the student life at SUNY Old Westbury is enriched by numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, promoting a well-rounded college experience. With a strong emphasis on preparing students for the workforce, many graduates find success in various fields, contributing positively to society and their communities.
Analysis of Key Metrics at SUNY Old Westbury
Examining the data from SUNY Old Westbury reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student retention rates, graduation rates, and student-to-faculty ratios, which are all critical indicators of the institution's performance and student experience.
Over the years, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $6,624 in 2014 to $8,379 in 2023, marking a rise of approximately 26.5%. Out-of-state tuition has also seen a similar upward trajectory. This trend in rising tuition costs is reflective of a larger national issue faced by public universities, where funding challenges often lead institutions to increase tuition to maintain services and quality of education.
Retention rates have shown a concerning decline, dropping from about 80.2% in 2013 to approximately 70.5% in 2023. This decrease may indicate potential issues with student satisfaction or support systems in place for students, as higher retention is typically linked to a positive educational environment and student engagement.
On the graduation front, the timely graduation rate fluctuated throughout the years, peaking at 33.0% in 2022, which is a notable improvement compared to the lows of 17.6% in 2017. This increase suggests that the institution may be implementing more effective support measures or programs aimed at helping students complete their degrees on time.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, with the lowest being 15:1 in 2022 and a peak of 23:1 in 2020. A lower ratio generally indicates more personalized attention for students, which can enhance their academic experience. The fluctuation in this ratio over recent years may reflect changes in faculty hiring practices and overall enrollment numbers.
In conclusion, while SUNY Old Westbury has made strides in improving graduation rates, the increasing tuition and declining retention rates are areas that require attention. Balancing financial sustainability with student support will be crucial for the university's future success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Timothy Sams (President)
- Phone
- 5168763000
- City
- Old Westbury, New York
- Address
- 223 Store Hill Rd, Old Westbury, NY 11568-0210
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 74.1%, women 80.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at SUNY Old Westbury
The admission data from SUNY Old Westbury reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The male acceptance rate saw a notable increase, rising from approximately 47% in 2021 to a staggering 89% in 2023, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive admissions policy. Similarly, the female acceptance rate also experienced an upward trend, growing from around 43% to nearly 94% in the same period. This dramatic rise suggests that the university may be actively working to balance gender representation in its student body.
Enrollment numbers have fluctuated, peaking at 663 in 2018 before stabilizing around the 500 mark in recent years. This stabilization, coupled with the increased acceptance rates, indicates a potential strategy to maintain a consistent student population while being more selective in who is admitted. The number of students denied admission has also varied widely, with 2,712 denials recorded in 2021, highlighting the competitive nature of the application process during that time.
Moreover, the data shows a growing trend in the number of deferrals, peaking at 3,039 in 2019. This could point to external factors influencing students' decisions, such as economic conditions or the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many to rethink their immediate educational paths.
Overall, SUNY Old Westbury's admission trends reflect broader shifts in higher education, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity while navigating the complexities of enrollment management in a changing societal landscape.
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—
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
Trends in Admission Test Scores at SUNY Old Westbury
The data from SUNY Old Westbury reveals noteworthy trends in the submission of admission test scores over the years, particularly concerning the SAT and ACT. Starting from 2007, there has been a generally positive trajectory in the SAT Reading and Math scores, with the 25th percentile scores showing a gradual increase from 420 to 550 by 2022. This reflects a rising standard among applicants, as higher scores often correlate with academic preparedness.
Interestingly, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores fluctuated significantly. For instance, in 2007, an impressive 97% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, but this figure saw a sharp decline to just 10% in 2022. This decline raises questions about the importance of standardized tests in the admissions process, especially given the growing movement towards test-optional policies in many colleges and universities across the United States.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores remained relatively stable, with a peak of 100% in recent years. This consistency suggests that while SAT submission might be waning, the ACT remains a vital component for a significant portion of applicants.
In conclusion, the shifting dynamics surrounding standardized test submissions at SUNY Old Westbury illustrate broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly considering holistic admissions processes, potentially diminishing the emphasis placed on standardized testing as a gauge of student success. As universities adapt to these changes, the implications for future admissions processes will be significant.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
7,760 applicants in 2025, 83.6% admitted
6,490 admitted 1,270 not admitted Yield 12.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Accounting · Master's33 (3% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, Other · Master's30 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's28 (4% international)
- Social Studies Teacher Education · Master's18 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's17 (6% international)
- English/Language Arts Teacher Education · Master's15 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from SUNY Old Westbury
The graduation data from SUNY Old Westbury for 2023 reveals several insightful trends regarding the popularity of various majors. Notably, the field of Psychology stands out with the highest number of graduates at 92, reflecting a significant interest in mental health and human behavior. This aligns with the growing societal focus on mental health awareness, particularly in the wake of recent global events that have highlighted the importance of psychological well-being.
Biology and Elementary Education follow closely, with 67 and 65 graduates respectively. The prominence of these fields suggests a strong inclination towards foundational sciences and education, which are critical for societal development. The presence of international students in these programs, particularly in Biology, indicates a global interest in these disciplines.
Business-related majors, including Business Administration and Finance, also show robust numbers. With 53 and 24 graduates respectively, these figures suggest a healthy interest in commerce and entrepreneurship, which is vital for economic growth particularly in post-pandemic recovery.
Interestingly, there is a notable absence of graduates in higher-level degrees such as master's and doctoral programs, especially in fields like Psychology and Education. This might indicate a gap in the continued academic pursuit for advanced studies, which could be a concern for the institution.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of certain fields in shaping the workforce and addressing contemporary challenges, while also highlighting areas for potential growth in advanced education.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,510 | ||
| Accounting. | $58,722-$81,230 | ||
| Finance, General. | $49,156 | ||
| Labor and Industrial Relations. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||
| Taxation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bilingual and Multilingual Education. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $54,789-$77,223 | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $54,789-$77,223 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $36,463 | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $62,802 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $62,802 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $62,802 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $62,802 | ||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $62,802 | ||
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | $62,802 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $42,140 | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Economy. | $43,235 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $45,663 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,590 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,951 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Bioinformatics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $36,539 | ||
| Public Health, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $37,047 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Digital Arts. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $44,399 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $44,881 | ||
| General Studies. | $44,881 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $61,978 | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
Students
4,709 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 71.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,796
- First-year undergraduates 796
- Graduate students 449
- Transfers and others 668
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,260)
Data insights
Student Demographics at SUNY Old Westbury in 2023
The student population at SUNY Old Westbury in 2023 showcases a diverse and dynamic community, particularly in terms of gender representation among different categories of students. The data reveals that among the first-year undergraduate students, women make up a significant majority at 55.8%, suggesting a positive trend towards gender balance in higher education. This trend is echoed across other categories, with women representing 59.8% of continuing undergraduate students and 60.6% of graduate students, indicating that female students are leading in enrollment at this institution.
The overall enrollment numbers also reflect a healthy intake of students, notably with 611 first-year students and a substantial 2,686 continuing undergraduates. The relatively smaller number of transfer and graduate students, at 503 and 363 respectively, suggests that SUNY Old Westbury may have a strong retention rate among undergraduates, which could be attributed to the supportive campus environment.
Furthermore, the racial and ethnic diversity of the student body is highlighted through the various subcategories of students. Although specific figures for the continuing and graduate students are not provided, the first-year students include a mix of backgrounds, with a notable representation of white and Latinx students. As the demographics of higher education continue to evolve, it is crucial for institutions like SUNY Old Westbury to foster an inclusive environment that supports all students, regardless of their backgrounds. This approach not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students for a diverse workforce.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at SUNY Old Westbury
The student age composition at SUNY Old Westbury reveals significant insights into the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, collectively accounting for over 60% of the total student body. Specifically, the 18-19 age group comprises nearly 33% of the total enrollment, highlighting the university's appeal to younger students, likely recent high school graduates.
The data also shows a substantial drop in enrollment as age increases, with only 5% of students aged between 50 to 64 and a mere 1% over 65. This trend is consistent with many universities across the United States, where traditional-aged students (18-24) dominate the demographic landscape. It reflects broader societal trends where higher education is primarily pursued by younger individuals, while older adults tend to participate in continuing education or professional development rather than enrolling in full-time degree programs.
Interestingly, the gender distribution indicates a higher number of female students in all age categories compared to their male counterparts. For instance, in the 20-21 age group, there are nearly 62% female students. This trend aligns with national statistics showing a growing participation of women in higher education over the past few decades.
In conclusion, the age and gender demographics at SUNY Old Westbury illustrate the institution's focus on attracting a younger, predominantly female student body, which may influence future academic programs and support services to cater to this demographic. Understanding these patterns is crucial for the university's strategic planning and resource allocation.
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.
137 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016
Data insights
Decline in International Student Representation at SUNY Old Westbury
The data from SUNY Old Westbury reflects a concerning trend regarding the representation of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a significant decline, dropping from 2.23% to just 1.13%. This decline raises questions about the university's attractiveness to international students amid a competitive global educational landscape.
The graduate student figures reveal a similar trend, with the proportion of international students decreasing from 5.26% in 2005 to merely 0.83% in 2023. Such a drop can have implications not only for the diversity of the student body but also for the university's global standing and the richness of the educational experience offered.
Several factors could contribute to this decline, including changing immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, and possible shifts in global demand for certain programs. The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a significant role in altering international student mobility, with many students reconsidering their study abroad plans.
In a time when universities are increasingly focusing on internationalization, SUNY Old Westbury must evaluate its strategies to attract and retain international students. This could involve enhancing support services, promoting a more inclusive campus environment, and actively engaging in international recruitment efforts. Addressing these issues is critical for fostering a diverse and vibrant academic community, which is essential for preparing students for a globalized world.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,814
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,842
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,372
- Room and board
- $13,972
- Graduate tuition
- $24,794
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$119M
Expenses$118M
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 · Skyline Conference
Skyline Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 38 | 18 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 15 | 12 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Lacrosse | - | 14 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 24 | 19 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 10 |
| Lacrosse | - | 17 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 20 |
| Basketball | 16 | 12 |
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 11 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 12 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 20.4 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 20.5 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
New York UniversityNew York · 22.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 24.0 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 24.9 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 31.9 mi
U.S. News #73
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 45.4 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 48.8 mi
U.S. News #4
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 50.3 mi
U.S. News #44
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities surrounding SUNY Old Westbury:
-
Hofstra University - Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, Hofstra University is a comprehensive university located in Hempstead, New York, known for its strong programs in business, law, and health sciences.
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Columbia ranks 12th overall. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is well-known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.
-
Fordham University - This comprehensive university ranks 89th and has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, as well as business, law, and social work programs.
-
New York University - NYU is ranked 35th and is recognized for its diverse and vibrant campus life, as well as its programs in arts, business, and sciences.
-
St. John's University-New York - With a rank of 163, St. John's offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a liberal arts education grounded in Catholic values.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for its rigorous academic environment and empowerment of women.
-
Sarah Lawrence College - This liberal arts college ranks 100th and is known for its unique educational approach, emphasizing individualized learning and close faculty-student relationships.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, Stevens ranks 76th and is recognized for its strong engineering and technology programs.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are excellent choices for students seeking quality education in the New York metropolitan 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
Analysis of Crime Data at SUNY Old Westbury
The crime data from SUNY Old Westbury over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rates per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate stood at 12.26, which is notably high compared to the subsequent years. By 2021, this figure had plummeted to an impressive low of 2.88, indicating a substantial decrease in criminal activities on campus.
A closer look at the specific types of offenses shows that incidents of gun arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests have varied over the years. The year 2014 saw a decrease in gun arrests, and this trend continued, with a notable absence of gun-related offenses in several subsequent years. However, there was a resurgence in such offenses in 2023, which includes 2 reported incidents.
Moreover, the data also reflects a general decline in drug and alcohol arrests, pointing towards an improvement in student behavior or perhaps more effective preventive measures by the campus administration. The presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents has been sporadic, with the numbers not exceeding a handful in recent years.
Overall, the data suggests that SUNY Old Westbury has made commendable strides in reducing crime rates on campus, particularly in the last few years. It's essential for universities to maintain safety and security measures to ensure a conducive learning environment. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be crucial in sustaining this positive trend. For more details on how crime rates are calculated, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of SUNY College at Old Westbury include John McTiernan (Film director known for action films), Kool Moe Dee (Rapper, member of the Treacherous Three) and Andrea Navedo (Television and film actress).
-
John McTiernan 1951–
Film director known for action films
-
Kool Moe Dee 1962–
Rapper, member of the Treacherous Three
-
Andrea Navedo 1977–
Television and film actress
-
Craig S. Harris 1953–
Jazz trombonist who worked with Sun Ra
-
A. Tom Grunfeld 1946–
East Asian history professor at SUNY
-
Thomas Carroll 1938–1999
Pioneer African-American martial artist and actor
-
Carla Rippey 1950–
Visual artist and former director of La Esmeralda
-
Trisha Ventker 1967–
Author and photographic artist
-
Wordsworth 1901–
Rapper from Brooklyn, New York
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.