SUNY College at Potsdam
Acceptance rate
77.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$18,678
In-state $8,768
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,111
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
36.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 49.8%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
SUNY College at Potsdam, located in the picturesque village of Potsdam, New York, is renowned for its commitment to liberal arts education and a strong emphasis on the performing arts. As a part of the State University of New York system, Potsdam has a rich history dating back to 1816, making it one of the oldest institutions in the state. The college is particularly well-known for its Crane School of Music, which is recognized nationally for its exceptional programs in music education and performance. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including modern music studios, performance halls, and ample practice spaces, fostering a vibrant artistic community.
In addition to its distinguished academic programs, SUNY Potsdam promotes a dynamic campus culture that encourages student involvement in various extracurricular activities. The college's motto, "To Seek, To Find, To Know," reflects its dedication to fostering a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning among its students. The friendly and inclusive environment nurtures collaboration and innovation, making it a welcoming place for students from diverse backgrounds. With a strong focus on student engagement, the college offers numerous clubs and organizations, allowing students to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. Overall, SUNY College at Potsdam stands out as an institution that successfully blends academic rigor with a supportive and creative community.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at SUNY College at Potsdam
The educational landscape at SUNY College at Potsdam has experienced significant changes over the past decade, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates.
Firstly, tuition fees have steadily increased, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $7,174 in 2014 to $8,712 in 2024, reflecting a 21.5% increase over the decade. Similarly, out-of-state undergraduate tuition surged from $16,624 to $18,622. This upward trend in tuition can be concerning as it may deter prospective students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, from pursuing higher education. The rising costs are indicative of broader trends in higher education across the United States, where tuition inflation has outpaced general economic growth.
On the enrollment front, the number of undergraduate students has seen a notable decline, dropping from 3,868 in 2013 to just 2,082 in 2023. This sharp decrease of over 46% may signal underlying issues, such as increased competition from other institutions, shifting demographics, or possibly dissatisfaction with the educational offerings. Such a reduction in student body size raises concerns about the institution's financial stability and its ability to maintain diverse academic programs.
Moreover, graduation rates offer a glimpse into the academic success of the institution. The on-time graduation rate fluctuated but ultimately stood at 36.9% in 2023, down from a higher rate of 44.8% in 2022. This decline raises questions about the effectiveness of student support systems and academic advising, which are crucial for helping students navigate their education successfully.
In conclusion, while SUNY College at Potsdam has made strides in some areas, the combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation rates suggests that the institution faces substantial challenges. Addressing these issues will be essential for attracting and retaining students, ensuring their success, and maintaining the college's reputation in the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Syracuse, about 130 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), about 120 mi
- Also known as
- SUNY-Potsdam
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Suzanne R Smith (President)
- Phone
- 3152672000
- Address
- 44 Pierrepont Ave, Potsdam, NY 13676-2294
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 62.9%, women 70.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at SUNY College at Potsdam
The admission data for SUNY College at Potsdam over the years reveals several noteworthy trends. Notably, the admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates ranging from approximately 58.8% to 78.3% and female rates varying from around 65.0% to 84.4%. This indicates a competitive environment, particularly in recent years, where the college has seen a decline in enrollment numbers coupled with an increase in acceptance rates.
The total number of enrollments has dropped significantly from 812 in 2009 to just 444 in 2023. This could suggest a variety of factors influencing student choices, including the overall reputation of the institution, financial considerations, and shifts in academic program offerings. The notable increase in the number of applicants who were denied admission—rising from 1,416 in 2009 to 549 in 2023—also highlights the intensified competition for a limited number of spots.
Moreover, the ratio of deferred admissions has grown, particularly in recent years, indicating that students are increasingly considering deferral as an option rather than outright rejection. This trend might reflect broader societal changes where students seek more flexibility in their educational paths, possibly influenced by the pandemic's impact on college experiences.
Overall, the data portrays SUNY College at Potsdam as an institution undergoing significant changes in its admission landscape, necessitating adaptive strategies to attract and retain students in a competitive higher education market.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of SAT and ACT Scores at SUNY College at Potsdam
The data from SUNY College at Potsdam over the years reflects a stable trend in standardized test scores and their submission rates. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has remained consistently high, fluctuating between 89% to 94%. This indicates a strong reliance on standardized testing in the admissions process, which may mirror broader national trends where many institutions still consider these scores as significant indicators of student preparedness.
Looking at the score ranges, the SAT reading scores have been consistently reported between 470 and 580 for the 25th to 75th percentile, suggesting that the college maintains a fairly standard benchmark for academic performance. This range indicates that while students are achieving decent scores, there is still room for improvement, particularly in a competitive academic environment.
Moreover, the data suggests stability in the college's admissions standards. The consistent score ranges over the years imply that the college has not drastically changed its evaluation criteria, which can be a reassuring factor for prospective students. However, it also raises questions about how this might impact the diversity of the applicant pool, especially as more institutions explore test-optional policies in response to educational equity movements.
In conclusion, while SUNY College at Potsdam shows a commitment to maintaining certain academic standards through standardized testing, the ongoing discourse around the efficacy and fairness of these tests continues to evolve. As higher education institutions reassess their admissions strategies, it will be interesting to observe how SUNY Potsdam adapts to these changes in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,530 applicants in 2025, 77.7% admitted
3,520 admitted 1,010 not admitted Yield 10.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's175 (51% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's34 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's31 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's26 (0% international)
- Music Teacher Education · Master's21 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's12 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at SUNY College at Potsdam
The graduation data from SUNY College at Potsdam reveals significant trends and highlights areas of concern within various academic programs. Notably, the Psychology program stands out with 58 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a strong interest and demand for this field among students. This aligns with broader trends observed in higher education, where psychology remains one of the most popular majors, reflecting the growing societal interest in mental health and wellness.
Conversely, several educational programs, including Elementary Education and Music Teacher Education, reported zero graduates at the bachelor's level. This raises questions about the appeal of these programs and potential barriers that may discourage enrollment, such as perceived job market challenges or the rigorous demands of teacher training. The lack of graduates could also suggest a need for curriculum reevaluation or enhanced recruitment strategies to attract students.
At the graduate level, the data shows that programs like Curriculum and Instruction and Music Teacher Education produced master's graduates, but notably, there were no international students in these programs. This could indicate a lack of global appeal or insufficient marketing to international audiences, which could be a missed opportunity for diversification and enrichment of the student body.
Overall, this data highlights both strengths and weaknesses within the institution's academic offerings, suggesting a need for strategic improvements, particularly in educational programs, to align with student interests and 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,916-$54,912 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Chemistry Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Physics Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 | ||
| Earth Science Teacher Education. | $48,185-$48,841 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $29,016 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $29,016 | ||
| Music, General. | $35,497 | ||
| Music History, Literature, and Theory. | $35,497 | ||
| Music Performance, General. | $35,497 | ||
| Fine and Studio Arts Management. | $41,869 | ||
| Music Management. | $41,869 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,656 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Archeology. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $46,389 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,915 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $31,224 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $48,496 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | $30,927 | ||
| Creative Writing. | $30,927 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $32,570 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health, General. | $37,176 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $39,162 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $53,485 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
2,832 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 77.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,315
- First-year undergraduates 352
- Graduate students 721
- Transfers and others 444
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,111)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at SUNY College at Potsdam in 2023
In 2023, SUNY College at Potsdam showcases a diverse student body with a notable gender distribution across various categories of students. The undergraduate freshmen cohort, consisting of 444 students, has a gender ratio of approximately 39.6% male and 60.4% female, indicating a predominance of female students. Similarly, the undergraduate juniors, with a total of 1,475 students, also reflect a higher percentage of female students at 61.5%, compared to 38.5% male students.
Undergraduate transfer students exhibit a slightly more balanced gender distribution, with 42.8% males and 57.2% females among the 159 students. The graduate student segment, comprising 345 individuals, presents the most significant gender imbalance, with only 23.2% of students identifying as male and a substantial 76.8% as female. This trend of higher female enrollment in higher education is consistent with national patterns, where women have been outpacing men in college attendance and graduation rates in recent years.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data reveals that the majority of these student populations are white, followed by smaller proportions of other groups. While the numbers for some categories are not fully detailed, it remains crucial for institutions to enhance diversity and inclusion efforts to better reflect the demographics of the broader society. This is particularly relevant in today's educational landscape, where increasing representation and understanding among different racial and ethnic backgrounds is essential for fostering an inclusive academic environment. Overall, SUNY College at Potsdam's student demographics highlight significant trends in gender representation and a need for continued focus on diversity.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at SUNY College at Potsdam
The student age composition at SUNY College at Potsdam reveals some interesting trends about the demographics of the student body. The data shows a significant concentration of younger students, particularly in the 18-21 age range, which is typical for many colleges and universities. For instance, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 36% of the total female student population, while those aged 20-21 contribute around 35% to the total female enrollment, indicating a strong presence of traditionally-aged college students.
Interestingly, the representation of graduate students is relatively low compared to undergraduates, especially evident in the younger age brackets. The numbers reflect that while there are some graduate students, the majority of the student body comprises undergraduates. The percentage of graduate students, particularly males, is minimal in the 20-24 age range, suggesting that most students are pursuing undergraduate degrees.
Moreover, the age groups of 25 and above show a notable decrease in student numbers, which can be indicative of trends in adult education or non-traditional students returning to school. The data suggests that the college attracts a younger demographic, which aligns with broader trends observed in higher education.
Overall, the age distribution at SUNY College at Potsdam mirrors the national trend of an increasing number of traditional-aged students in colleges while highlighting the challenges of attracting and retaining older, non-traditional students who may have different educational needs and motivations. This demographic insight can inform future academic and support strategies to foster a more inclusive environment for all age groups.
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.
23 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
216 in 2025 · 7.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at SUNY College at Potsdam
The data reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at SUNY College at Potsdam over nearly two decades. Back in 2004, the undergraduate international student population constituted approximately 3.44% of the total undergraduates, which was a modest figure. However, this percentage saw a peak in the late 2000s, with the highest being 4.16% in 2009, suggesting a growing appeal for the institution among international students at that time.
Conversely, from around 2011 onwards, there has been a notable decline in both the total number of undergraduates and the percentage of international students. By 2023, international undergraduates made up only 0.86% of the student body, a stark contrast to previous years. This downward trend may reflect broader challenges faced by U.S. educational institutions in attracting international talent, including changing immigration policies, increased competition from universities in other countries, and the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mobility.
The graduate program also showcases a similar trend, where the percentage of international students peaked at 40.63% in 2007, followed by a drastic decrease to just 8.99% by 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's ability to maintain a diverse academic environment, which is often enriched by international perspectives.
In conclusion, while SUNY College at Potsdam had periods of robust international student enrollment, recent statistics indicate a pressing need for the institution to re-evaluate its strategies to attract and retain global talent in both undergraduate and graduate programs. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for fostering a vibrant and diverse academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$33,958
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,678
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,768
- Room and board
- $15,280
- Graduate tuition
- $24,598
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$111M
Expenses$106M
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, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 41 | 23 |
| Soccer | 30 | 25 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 27 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 21 | 16 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Swimming | 10 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 29 |
| Lacrosse | 37 | 17 |
| Ice Hockey | 25 | 24 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 28 | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 28 | 11 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 16 |
| Basketball | 15 | 12 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 11 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 4 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 32 |
| Lacrosse | 36 | 19 |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 25 | 10 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 10 |
| Volleyball | 13 | 15 |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Swimming | 10 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 5 |
| Diving | - | 3 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Clarkson UniversityPotsdam · 1.3 mi
U.S. News #137
-
St. Lawrence UniversityCanton · 10.5 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of VermontBurlington · 88.4 mi
U.S. News #133
-
Middlebury CollegeMiddlebury · 99.6 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Hamilton CollegeClinton · 113.5 mi
Liberal Arts #14
-
Skidmore CollegeSaratoga Springs · 123.3 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse · 126.3 mi
U.S. News #72
-
Colgate UniversityHamilton · 130.4 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Union CollegeSchenectady · 137.7 mi
Liberal Arts #44
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near SUNY College at Potsdam:
-
Middlebury College - Ranked 11th in the 2024 US News rankings, Middlebury College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and its commitment to environmental sustainability.
-
Hamilton College - With a ranking of 16, Hamilton College is another highly regarded liberal arts institution. It offers a unique open curriculum that allows students to design their own academic pathways.
-
Colgate University - Ranked 21st, Colgate University is a private liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
Union College - With a ranking of 45, Union College combines a liberal arts education with engineering, offering a diverse range of programs and a strong focus on research.
-
Dartmouth College - Although a bit further away, Dartmouth College is an Ivy League institution ranked 18th. It is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and vibrant campus community.
-
Williams College - As the top-ranked liberal arts college in the nation, Williams College (ranked 1st) is famous for its exceptional faculty and strong undergraduate research opportunities.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence.
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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at SUNY Potsdam
The data from SUNY College at Potsdam reveals a notable decline in the average crime rates per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2021. In 2013, the crime rate was as high as 26.04, which significantly decreased to 6.16 by 2021. This decline can be attributed to various factors, such as improved campus safety measures, increased awareness of crime prevention, and possibly a decrease in on-campus activities due to the pandemic.
Interestingly, the types of crimes reported also show some variation over the years. For instance, there were instances of gun-related arrests and incidents of drug-related offenses, but these appear to have diminished over time. The absence of major violent crimes like murder or robbery indicates a relatively safe environment for students.
However, it is essential to remain vigilant, as crime can still occur, and the recent uptick in 2022 and 2023 raises concerns that should not be overlooked. The increase in incidents during these years could be linked to a return to normalcy post-pandemic, with more students on campus and engaged in social activities.
Overall, while the trend indicates progress in reducing crime rates, the university community must continue to prioritize safety and awareness to ensure a secure environment for all students. For detailed crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.