State University of New York at New Paltz
Acceptance rate
61.6%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$18,822
In-state $8,572
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,862
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
56.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) is a distinguished public institution located in the picturesque Hudson Valley region of New York. Established in 1828, it has evolved into a vibrant academic community known for its strong commitment to student success and innovative learning experiences. One of the standout features of SUNY New Paltz is its emphasis on a liberal arts education combined with professional studies, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, the university fosters close relationships between students and professors, promoting an engaging and personalized educational environment.
The campus is celebrated for its beautiful surroundings, including scenic views of the Shawangunk Ridge, which not only enriches the student experience but also provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing. SUNY New Paltz is also home to a vibrant campus culture, encouraging student participation in various clubs, organizations, and events that enhance personal growth and community engagement. The university's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is reflected in its various initiatives and programs aimed at promoting an equitable environment for all students. Additionally, the school boasts impressive facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that support both academic and extracurricular pursuits, making it an ideal place for students to thrive both academically and socially.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The tuition fees at the State University of New York at New Paltz have experienced a steady increase over the past decade. For in-state undergraduate students, the tuition rose from $7,083 in 2014 to $8,524 in 2023, marking an increase of approximately 20.4%. For out-of-state undergraduates, the tuition increased from $16,533 to $18,434, which is a 11.5% rise. This consistent surge in tuition fees may reflect broader national trends in higher education, where rising costs have become a significant concern for students and families alike.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduates have shown a positive trend, with the on-time graduation rate increasing from about 42.8% in 2013 to around 61.5% in 2023. This improvement of nearly 18.7 percentage points indicates that the university has likely implemented effective support systems to enhance student persistence and success. The 150% graduation rate also demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that students complete their degrees, with a figure of 75.9% in 2023.
However, student retention rates present a mixed picture. While the retention rate for undergraduates was a robust 87.4% in 2013, it saw a decline to about 84.2% by 2023. This decrease of 3.2 percentage points raises concerns about student satisfaction and the overall college experience, suggesting that while graduation rates are improving, the university may need to address factors that contribute to student retention.
Overall, while the university is successfully helping more students graduate on time, the rising costs of tuition and the slight decline in retention rates suggest that ongoing attention is needed to ensure that students not only enroll but also remain engaged and satisfied throughout their academic journey.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Poughkeepsie, about 9 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albany International Airport (ALB), about 70 mi
- Also known as
- State University of New York at New Paltz
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Darrell P. Wheeler (President)
- Phone
- 8776967411
- Address
- 1 Hawk Drive, New Paltz, NY 12561-2443
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 40.3%, women 48.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at SUNY New Paltz
The admission data from State University of New York at New Paltz reveals significant trends over the years, indicating a fluctuating acceptance landscape that reflects broader shifts in higher education. Notably, the male acceptance rate has risen from 32.3% in 2009 to a peak of 62.8% in 2021, before settling at 50.1% in 2023. This sharp increase in acceptance rates, particularly in the past few years, may suggest a shift in the university's enrollment strategy, possibly driven by external factors such as demographic changes, increased competition among institutions, or adjustments in marketing and recruitment efforts.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate has also seen an upward trend, although it generally remains higher than that of males throughout the years. The rate fluctuated from 38.3% in 2009, peaking at 63.5% in 2023, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering gender diversity within its student body. The substantial number of deferrals, particularly in recent years, raises questions about students' decision-making processes and the impact of external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic on college readiness and preferences.
The enrollment numbers have varied, with a notable increase in students admitted during 2021, likely influenced by the pandemic's impact on college applications. This period saw a significant drop in the number of denied applications, suggesting that students may have been more selective in their choices or that there were fewer applicants overall.
Overall, the admission data for SUNY New Paltz reflects dynamic changes influenced by both institutional decisions and external circumstances affecting higher education. The trends observed may serve as a microcosm of the evolving landscape of college admissions in the United States.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 12% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at SUNY New Paltz
The data from the State University of New York at New Paltz reveals interesting trends in the admissions test scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both the number of students submitting their SAT scores and the range of scores that characterize the middle 50% of admitted students.
Initially, in 2007, the SAT reading and math scores for the middle 50% of admits ranged from 510 to 600, with a significant number of test-takers. However, by 2023, this range had shifted to between 590 and 680, indicating a gradual increase in the average performance of admitted students. This upward trend in scores may reflect the increasing competitiveness of the applicant pool, as well as the evolving educational landscape that places a higher emphasis on standardized test preparation.
Moreover, while the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores remained relatively high in the earlier years, a stark decrease is observed in 2022 and 2023, where only 18% and 17% of admitted students submitted their scores, respectively. This decline may suggest a growing trend towards test-optional admissions policies in higher education, a shift that has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Institutions are increasingly recognizing the limitations of standardized tests in capturing a student’s full potential, leading to a more holistic review process.
In conclusion, the data showcases a dual narrative: an increase in the quality of applicants as evidenced by rising test scores, alongside a significant reduction in the reliance on standardized testing for admission decisions. This evolution reflects broader societal shifts in attitudes towards education and diversity in higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
17,232 applicants in 2025, 61.6% admitted
10,616 admitted 6,616 not admitted Yield 10.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's42 (83% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's42 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's41 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's34 (0% international)
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, General · Master's26 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's23 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from SUNY New Paltz
The graduation data from the State University of New York at New Paltz reveals notable trends in various academic fields. One significant observation is the disparity in graduation rates among different disciplines. For instance, Sociology leads with 98 graduates at the bachelor's level, while fields such as Digital Communication and Media or Speech Communication show modest figures of 77 and 70, respectively. This indicates a strong interest in social sciences, which may reflect broader societal trends and career aspirations among students.
Interestingly, there are several programs, particularly in the arts and education, that reported zero graduates at both the bachelor and associate levels. This could suggest a lack of enrollment or perhaps a shift in student preferences towards more lucrative or stable fields, such as technology or health sciences. Moreover, the absence of graduates in Computer and Information Sciences at the bachelor's level raises concerns, especially in a digital age where such skills are in high demand.
The presence of international students in the master's programs is noteworthy, especially in Computer and Information Sciences, where there are 49 graduates, predominantly international. This reflects the university's appeal to global students seeking advanced degrees in technical fields, which are increasingly critical in today's job market.
In summary, the graduation statistics highlight a clear preference for certain disciplines, with social sciences dominating the undergraduate landscape, while advanced technical fields attract international talent. As the university evaluates its academic offerings, it may need to consider these trends to align with student interests and labor market demands.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multicultural Education. | $70,107 | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | - | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | - | ||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $41,877 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $41,877 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Chemistry Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Physics Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Earth Science Teacher Education. | $51,072-$65,960 | ||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | $67,113 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $34,068 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $42,497-$69,363 | ||
| Accounting. | $51,414 | ||
| Finance, General. | $51,365 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $45,351 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,041 | ||
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - | ||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $27,619 | ||
| Graphic Design. | $32,825 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $25,372 | ||
| Photography. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Painting. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Sculpture. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Printmaking. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Ceramic Arts and Ceramics. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Metal Arts. | $25,795-$26,478 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $39,992 | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $39,992 | ||
| Journalism. | $33,057 | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $27,727 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | $43,330 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $44,248 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $38,376 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | $58,725 | ||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $47,765 | ||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $59,431 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $32,134 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $73,337 | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $72,418 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,929 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | ||
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astronomy. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Studies/Civilization. | - | ||
| Latin American and Caribbean Studies. | - | ||
| African-American/Black Studies. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $29,614 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-D Modeling and Design Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
7,898 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 85.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,354
- First-year undergraduates 1,131
- Graduate students 1,036
- Transfers and others 1,377
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,862)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at State University of New York at New Paltz in 2023
The student population at the State University of New York at New Paltz in 2023 showcases a diverse and vibrant community. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 1,163 students, with a notable gender distribution of approximately 34.6% male and 65.4% female. This trend of a higher percentage of female students is consistent across the other categories, including continuing undergraduates and transfer students, where the percentages of female students remain above 64%.
The graduate student body, consisting of 874 individuals, also reflects this gender disparity, with 30.5% male and 69.5% female representation. The predominance of female students in higher education has been a growing trend across many universities in the United States, which may be influenced by various social and educational factors that encourage higher female enrollment in academic programs.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the detailed breakdown of the student body reveals that White students make up a significant portion of the population, particularly among undergraduates. Although specific statistics for some subcategories remain unavailable, the overall representation of various ethnic groups is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
As educational institutions increasingly prioritize diversity and equity, the demographic data from New Paltz serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts and challenges in achieving a balanced representation across different racial, ethnic, and gender lines in higher education. This student composition not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares all students for a diverse workforce and society.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at SUNY New Paltz
The student age distribution at the State University of New York at New Paltz reveals interesting insights into the demographic makeup of the campus. A significant proportion of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24. Specifically, students aged 18-19 represent a remarkable 39.5% of the total student population, with 1,538 females and 697 males enrolled. This age bracket is pivotal, as it typically encompasses first-year students who are transitioning from high school to higher education.
The data further indicates that students aged 20-21 are also prevalent, accounting for 26.6% of the total student body. This suggests that the university attracts a substantial number of students who are within the typical age range for undergraduates. However, as the age increases, particularly in the 22-24 bracket, we observe a decline in numbers, with 490 total students, indicating a potential drop-off in enrollment or a shift in demographic trends.
Interestingly, the university also supports a diverse age range among its students, including those aged 25 and older. While the representation is smaller, it highlights the presence of non-traditional students seeking further education, which is increasingly common in today's academic landscape. This trend aligns with national data showing a rise in adult learners pursuing higher education for career advancement or personal enrichment.
Overall, SUNY New Paltz's age composition reflects a vibrant educational environment that caters not only to younger, traditional students but also to older individuals seeking to enhance their qualifications. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, the university's commitment to diversity in age demographics will likely play a crucial role in shaping its future.
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.
63 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
54 in 2025 · 20.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at SUNY New Paltz
The data on international student enrollment at the State University of New York at New Paltz reveals some intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students fluctuated, peaking at 299 in 2009 before gradually declining to just 68 in 2023. This represents a significant decrease in the number of international undergraduates, dropping from 4.46% of total undergraduates in 2009 to a mere 1.12% in 2023.
On the graduate level, the situation presents a more complex picture. While the total number of graduate students has remained relatively stable, international enrollment has seen a notable rise and fall. The highest percentage of international graduate students reached 20.25% in 2016, only to plummet to 13.62% in 2023, despite an increase in the absolute number of international students.
This decline in undergraduate international enrollment may reflect broader trends in the U.S. higher education landscape, including increased competition from institutions worldwide and changes in immigration policies that affect students' decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a crucial role in reshaping international student mobility, as many students opted for remote learning or chose to remain in their home countries.
Overall, while the university has seen fluctuations in international enrollment, the data suggests a worrying trend for undergraduate programs. Addressing these challenges, including enhancing support systems for international students and promoting the value of a SUNY New Paltz education abroad, will be crucial in reversing this decline and fostering a more diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,506
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,822
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,572
- Room and board
- $16,684
- Graduate tuition
- $24,602
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 7% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$217M
Expenses$203M
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 · State University of New York Athletic Conference
State University of New York Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 29 | 25 |
| Soccer | 27 | 27 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Swimming | 18 | 18 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 18 |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 23 |
| Lacrosse | 28 | 22 |
| Swimming | 19 | 19 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Volleyball | 19 | 18 |
| Basketball | 15 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 28 | 23 |
| Soccer | 24 | 21 |
| Swimming | 23 | 21 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Volleyball | 19 | 15 |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Equestrian | - | 14 |
| Tennis | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie · 10.3 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Bard CollegeAnnandale-On-Hudson · 21.2 mi
Liberal Arts #72
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 25.2 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Sacred Heart UniversityFairfield · 56.4 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Fairfield UniversityFairfield · 58.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Montclair State UniversityMontclair · 61.1 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Fordham UniversityBronx · 61.8 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Yeshiva UniversityNew York · 62.0 mi
U.S. News #90
-
CUNY--City CollegeNew York · 64.0 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable universities located near the State University of New York at New Paltz:
-
Vassar College - Ranked 16th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vassar College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Bard College - With a ranking of 72, Bard College offers a unique educational experience with an emphasis on the arts and humanities, fostering creativity and critical thinking among its students.
-
United States Military Academy - Known as West Point, this esteemed institution ranks 8th and offers a rigorous education combined with military training, preparing future leaders of the U.S. Army.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard College is an elite women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for empowering women through education and leadership opportunities.
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - As one of the Ivy League schools, Columbia ranks 12th and is renowned globally for its academic excellence and research contributions across various fields.
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Yale University - Ranking 5th, Yale is another prestigious Ivy League institution, well-known for its excellent programs in law, drama, and the humanities.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their contributions to higher education.
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 SUNY New Paltz
The data from State University of New York at New Paltz reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates over the years. Starting with a relatively high crime rate of 12.80 per 1,000 students in 2013, there was a notable spike to 22.99 in 2014, which could be indicative of various factors including changes in campus security policies or reporting practices. The subsequent years demonstrate a general downward trend, with the lowest rate recorded in 2021 at just 1.52 per 1,000 students.
This dramatic decline in 2021 coincides with the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity and potentially fewer opportunities for crime. However, the slight uptick in 2022 and 2023 raises concerns, suggesting that as the campus returns to normalcy, there may be a need to reinforce safety measures.
The data indicates that gun-related arrests have been a consistent issue, though other categories such as drug and alcohol offenses also contribute to the overall crime landscape. Given the university's commitment to providing a safe educational environment, it is crucial to analyze these trends further and implement proactive measures to address any rising concerns.
It’s essential to remember that crime data can be influenced by numerous factors, including campus population changes and law enforcement practices. Continuous review and adaptation of policies will be key to maintaining a safe atmosphere for students. For more detailed information on calculating crime rates, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Recent News at State University of New York at New Paltz
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
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SUNY New Paltz hosted the 25th annual Mid-Hudson American Chemical Society Undergraduate Research Symposium, featuring student-faculty research presentations across diverse chemical science topics alongside regional colleges and universities.
Source:sites.newpaltz.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.