SUNY at Purchase College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#128
Acceptance rate
74.0%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$19,266
In-state $9,016
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
3,257
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
57.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.9%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
SUNY at Purchase College, located in Purchase, New York, is a vibrant institution that stands out for its commitment to the arts and liberal arts education. Established in 1971, the college is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate programs. The campus is renowned for its beautiful architecture and expansive green spaces, providing an inspiring environment conducive to creativity and learning. Purchase College is particularly distinguished by its School of the Arts, which includes programs in music, dance, theater, and visual arts, attracting talented students from across the globe. The college fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among students, encouraging them to engage in creative projects and interdisciplinary studies.
The college's mission reflects its dedication to academic excellence and social responsibility, encapsulated in its motto: “The Arts and Humanities for Everyone.” This ethos is evident in the college's diverse range of extracurricular activities, including various student-led organizations and cultural events that enrich the campus life. Purchase College also boasts impressive facilities, including state-of-the-art theaters, art studios, and a world-class library, which enhance the educational experience. Furthermore, the college's strategic location near New York City provides students with unparalleled access to cultural, professional, and internship opportunities, significantly enhancing their employability after graduation. With a focus on preparing students for successful careers, SUNY at Purchase College continues to be a nurturing ground for the next generation of creative leaders and thinkers.
Analysis of Key Metrics at SUNY Purchase College
The data from SUNY Purchase College reveals significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Notably, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from approximately $7,573 in 2014 to $8,953 in 2023, representing a rise of around 18.2%. This escalating cost reflects a broader trend in higher education, where tuition continues to climb, potentially affecting accessibility for many prospective students.
In contrast, the student population has shown a concerning decline. From 2014 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students decreased from 4,239 to 3,107, which is a drop of about 26.7%. This decline may suggest a growing challenge for the institution in attracting new students, possibly due to factors such as rising costs or increased competition from other colleges and universities.
Furthermore, the graduation rate has been relatively stable, with approximately 53.4% of students graduating on time in 2023, slightly down from 57.5% in 2017. This stability is encouraging, as it indicates that those who enroll are generally able to complete their degrees, but the overall declining enrollment could pose long-term sustainability issues for the institution.
Retention rates have also remained relatively consistent, hovering around 78-83% from 2013 to 2023. This suggests that once students are enrolled, they tend to stay, but the declining enrollment figures indicate that the college may need to enhance its outreach and support services to attract and retain a larger student body.
In summary, while SUNY Purchase College has maintained stable graduation and retention rates, the rising tuition costs and decreasing student enrollment present significant challenges that could impact the college's future viability and reputation. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution moving forward.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Bridgeport, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 30 mi
- Also known as
- Purchase College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Michael Steiper (President)
- Phone
- 9142516000
- Address
- 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY 10577-1400
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 48.5%, women 53.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at SUNY Purchase College
The admission data from SUNY Purchase College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly regarding acceptance rates and the number of students enrolled. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has fluctuated from approximately 21.45% in 2009 to a striking 70.66% in 2023, indicating a dramatic increase in accessibility for male students. Female applicants also experienced a similar trend, with acceptance rates ranging from about 25.98% to 76.99% in the same period.
The total enrollment numbers have varied, peaking at 894 in 2019, while the number of students denied admission has consistently remained high, with a maximum of 6751 denials in 2009. This reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process, particularly in the earlier years. The data also shows a notable increase in deferred admissions, suggesting that the college is accommodating more students who may not be ready to enroll immediately.
This increase in acceptance rates and enrollment can be attributed to a variety of factors, including changing demographics, strategic recruitment efforts by the college, and possibly a broader trend of increasing acceptance rates in higher education institutions across the United States. The broader context of higher education indicates that many colleges are seeking to expand their student bodies to ensure financial stability and diversity.
Overall, the data illustrates a positive trend towards increased inclusivity and accessibility at SUNY Purchase College, aligning with national efforts to broaden participation in higher education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 46% submitted SAT, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at SUNY Purchase College
The data from SUNY Purchase College over the years reveals significant trends in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and the corresponding score ranges for admitted students. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a dramatic decline from 96% in 2007 to just 11% in 2023. This trend aligns with a nationwide movement towards test-optional admissions policies, leading many institutions to reevaluate the role of standardized tests in the college admissions process.
Score ranges for both SAT reading and mathematics have shown an increase over the years, indicating that the college is attracting a more academically prepared cohort of students. For instance, the SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile rose from 510 in 2007 to 620 in 2023, suggesting that the minimum benchmark for competitive admissions has shifted significantly upward. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also escalated, reflecting a broader trend of rising academic standards among prospective students.
Moreover, the decrease in the number of students submitting scores correlates with a shift in focus towards holistic admissions processes that emphasize other factors such as personal statements, extracurricular activities, and recommendations. This evolution may enhance diversity within the student body, as it allows greater access for students who may excel in areas not captured by standardized tests.
Overall, SUNY Purchase College's evolving admissions landscape reflects broader educational trends and societal changes concerning standardized testing, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
7,845 applicants in 2025, 74.0% admitted
5,809 admitted 2,036 not admitted Yield 12.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Music, General · Master's16 (0% international)
- Art History, Criticism and Conservation · Master's5 (0% international)
- Visual and Performing Arts, General · Master's2 (0% international)
- Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at SUNY Purchase College for 2023
The data from SUNY Purchase College reveals notable trends in its graduate programs for 2023. A significant focus appears to be on the performing arts, with multiple programs in this field yielding high graduation numbers. For instance, the general Psychology program produced the highest number of graduates at 59, while various Drama and Theatre Arts programs collectively contributed over 100 graduates. This suggests a robust interest and investment in creative disciplines, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where arts programs are gaining prominence.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating from many programs, particularly at the associate and bachelor levels. This could indicate limited outreach or support for international students, which is a crucial aspect considering the increasing globalization of education. The only international graduate noted is from the bachelor's level in Drama, highlighting a potential area for growth in attracting foreign talent.
Moreover, the lack of graduates in fields such as Education and Environmental Studies raises questions about the appeal and relevance of these programs in the current job market. As society increasingly prioritizes sustainability and education, these disciplines may require reevaluation and revitalization to align with student interests and job prospects.
Overall, SUNY Purchase College's graduate data illustrates a strong emphasis on the arts, while also indicating areas where the institution can improve in terms of international engagement and diversification of its academic offerings. The evolving landscape of higher education necessitates such adaptations to remain competitive and relevant.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $23,710 | ||
| Dance, General. | $30,053 | ||
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $27,404 | ||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | $27,404 | ||
| Playwriting and Screenwriting. | $27,404 | ||
| Acting. | $27,404 | ||
| Musical Theatre. | $27,404 | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | $30,260 | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $30,260 | ||
| Photography. | $30,260 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $27,203 | ||
| Painting. | $27,203 | ||
| Sculpture. | $27,203 | ||
| Printmaking. | $27,203 | ||
| Music, General. | $23,001 | ||
| Music Performance, General. | $23,001 | ||
| Music Theory and Composition. | $23,001 | ||
| Voice and Opera. | $23,001 | ||
| Jazz/Jazz Studies. | $23,001 | ||
| Fine and Studio Arts Management. | $34,055 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $25,849 | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $25,849 | ||
| Journalism. | $35,518 | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $30,872 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | $49,203 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $31,715 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $41,701 | ||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $41,701 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | $22,915 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $31,390 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $20,262 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latin American Studies. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
Students
3,333 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 80.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,203
- First-year undergraduates 747
- Graduate students 76
- Transfers and others 307
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,257)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of SUNY at Purchase College in 2023
The student demographic data from SUNY at Purchase College for the year 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding enrollment and gender distribution. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 687, with a notable gender ratio of 40.2% male and 59.8% female. This indicates a higher representation of female students among new entrants, a trend that has been observed in many colleges across the United States in recent years.
For undergraduate continuing students, the numbers are more substantial, with 2,134 enrolled. The gender ratio remains relatively balanced, with 41.1% male and 58.9% female students. This suggests that the college maintains a consistent female majority throughout the undergraduate experience. In contrast, the transfer students show an almost equal gender distribution, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female, reflecting the diverse nature of the transfer population.
Graduate students, although fewer in number at 75, display a slight male majority at 52%. This could indicate varying trends in academic fields pursued by graduate students, which often differ from those of undergraduates.
Additionally, while the data specifies various ethnic backgrounds, the details for those classifications remain incomplete. However, the presence of a significant number of white students among the demographic highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding diversity and inclusion in higher education institutions. With increasing attention on equity and representation, it will be crucial for SUNY at Purchase College to continue fostering an environment that supports and celebrates diversity among its student body.
Analysis of the Age Composition at SUNY at Purchase College in 2023
The age composition data from SUNY at Purchase College in 2023 reveals interesting trends in the student demographic. A significant majority of students fall within the traditional college-age bracket of 18-24, with 61.9% of undergraduate males and 61.7% of undergraduate females aged 18-21. This consistency indicates a strong enrollment of younger students, which is typical for many colleges and universities across the United States.
The data also shows a notable number of students under the age of 18, particularly among females, with 97 young female students compared to 55 males. This could reflect the institution's appeal to high-achieving high school students or programs that cater to younger demographics. Conversely, the representation of older students (ages 25 and above) is quite limited, with only 6.3% of total students falling within the 25-29 age range. This suggests that the college primarily attracts younger students, potentially limiting the appeal for adult learners seeking higher education later in life.
Additionally, the representation of graduate students is minimal, with only a handful of males and females in the older age brackets. This could indicate a need for the college to enhance its programs and resources for graduate studies to attract a more diverse age range, particularly among non-traditional students. Overall, while SUNY at Purchase College maintains a vibrant and youthful student body, there appears to be an opportunity for growth in attracting older and more diverse learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
65 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 21.7% in 2016
Data insights
Comments on International Student Enrollment at SUNY Purchase College
The data regarding international student enrollment at SUNY Purchase College presents a noteworthy trend over the years from 2004 to 2023. Initially, in 2004, the undergraduate international student population was relatively robust, with over 5% of the total undergraduate student body being international. However, this figure has seen a significant decline over the years, dropping to a mere 1.26% by 2023. This steady decrease raises questions about the factors influencing international student recruitment at the institution.
In contrast, while the percentage of international students at the undergraduate level has dwindled, the graduate student segment has shown more stability. The proportion of international graduate students fluctuated but remained significantly higher, peaking at 25.47% in 2020 before settling at around 20% in recent years. This suggests that graduate programs at SUNY Purchase may be more appealing or accessible to international students compared to undergraduate offerings.
Several external factors may contribute to these trends, such as increased competition from other institutions, changing immigration policies, and the global pandemic's impact on international travel and education. As universities worldwide adapt to these challenges, it will be crucial for SUNY Purchase to reassess its strategies for attracting and retaining international talent, particularly at the undergraduate level, to foster a diverse educational environment that benefits all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,702
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,266
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,016
- Room and board
- $16,436
- Graduate tuition
- $25,506
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$156M
Expenses$151M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges 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 | 29 | 21 |
| Lacrosse | 22 | 17 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Swimming | 13 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 14 |
| Tennis | 13 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 6 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 23 | 15 |
| Soccer | 14 | 22 |
| Basketball | 25 | 10 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Volleyball | 12 | 13 |
| Swimming | 11 | 11 |
| Tennis | 11 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 22 | 20 |
| Lacrosse | 21 | 18 |
| Baseball | 26 | - |
| Volleyball | 12 | 12 |
| Swimming | 11 | 9 |
| Tennis | 8 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Basketball | 14 | - |
| Golf | 4 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 21.3 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 21.4 mi
U.S. News #12
-
New York UniversityNew York · 26.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 26.9 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 27.1 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 31.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 44.2 mi
U.S. News #4
-
Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie · 45.3 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 54.3 mi
U.S. News #44
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near SUNY at Purchase College:
-
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 rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
Barnard College - With a rank of 11, Barnard is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, offering a strong liberal arts education in an urban setting.
-
Fordham University - Ranked 89th, Fordham is a private research university with a strong emphasis on liberal education, social justice, and community service.
-
New York University - NYU, ranked 35th, is one of the largest private universities in the United States, known for its diverse programs and global presence.
-
St. John's University-New York - This university is ranked 163rd and is known for its commitment to a Catholic education, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These institutions provide a mix of research opportunities, liberal arts education, and unique campus experiences, making the area around SUNY at Purchase College a vibrant educational hub.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at SUNY Purchase College
The crime statistics at SUNY Purchase College reveal a notable trend over the past decade, particularly in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students. The data indicates a significant decrease in crime rates, especially between 2019 and 2021, where the average dropped from 25.65 to just 8.79 incidents per 1,000 students. This reduction highlights improvements in campus safety and a possible increase in community awareness and preventive measures.
Interestingly, while the overall crime rate has decreased, the reported incidents of gun-related arrests have been sporadic, with only one recorded instance in certain years. This suggests that while serious crimes may be less frequent, the potential for significant events remains a concern. In addition, the statistics for drug and alcohol-related arrests show some fluctuations, indicating that substance-related issues may persist on campus.
The presence of domestic violence and stalking cases also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in these areas. As universities across the nation grapple with campus safety, it is essential for institutions to remain proactive in addressing these concerns through education, support services, and effective enforcement.
Overall, the decline in crime rates at SUNY Purchase College is a positive development, yet it is crucial for the community to sustain these efforts to ensure a safe environment for all students. For a more detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
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.