SUNY Cortland
Acceptance rate
59.8%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$18,784
In-state $8,874
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,911
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
55.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.7%
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 Cortland, commonly known as SUNY Cortland, is a distinguished institution located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York. Founded in 1868, the university has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing quality education. One of the university's defining characteristics is its focus on teacher education, which has made it a leading institution for training educators. SUNY Cortland offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as physical education, health, and environmental science. The university's commitment to experiential learning allows students to engage in hands-on opportunities, preparing them for successful careers.
In addition to its academic offerings, SUNY Cortland boasts a vibrant campus culture and a strong sense of community. The university's motto, "Excellence in Education," underscores its dedication to fostering an enriching learning environment. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and recreational centers that enhance student life. Furthermore, SUNY Cortland is known for its beautiful campus, which provides students with a conducive atmosphere for both study and relaxation. The university also has a thriving athletics program, with numerous sports teams competing at the NCAA Division III level. Overall, SUNY Cortland not only excels in academics but also nurtures a well-rounded student experience, making it an excellent choice for higher education.
Analysis of Key Data Points at SUNY Cortland
The data from the State University of New York at Cortland reveals several significant trends, particularly concerning tuition fees, student population, graduation rates, and retention rates.
First and foremost, tuition has seen a steady increase over the years. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition rose from $7,327 in 2014 to $8,815 in 2023, marking a notable increase of about 20%. In contrast, out-of-state undergraduate tuition experienced a similar upward trend, rising from $16,777 to $18,725 during the same period. This continuous escalation in tuition costs may pose a challenge for prospective students, particularly those from lower-income families, amplifying the ongoing national conversation about college affordability.
Moreover, the student population has shown a slight decline, particularly in the undergraduate sector, which decreased from approximately 6,400 students in 2014 to around 5,993 in 2023. This decline could be indicative of broader demographic trends or shifting preferences among students regarding their choice of institution, which warrants further investigation.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 51.7% in 2023, slightly down from previous years. This decline could raise concerns about student support services and academic performance, suggesting that the institution may need to enhance its retention strategies to improve student success.
Lastly, retention rates have remained relatively stable over the years, with a slight increase in 2021 (approximately 84.8%) before dropping slightly to around 79.5% in 2023. This stability is encouraging and indicates that once students are enrolled, they are likely to continue their studies, reflecting positively on the university's community and support systems.
In summary, while SUNY Cortland displays strengths in retaining students, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates highlight critical areas for strategic improvement to ensure that it remains an attractive choice for future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Syracuse, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- SUNY Cortland
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Erik J. Bitterbaum (President)
- Phone
- 6077532011
- Address
- Miller Building, Cortland, NY 13045-0900
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 40.2%, women 50.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at SUNY Cortland
The admission data from State University of New York at Cortland reveals significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. The male admission rate has shown a steady increase from approximately 29.68% in 2009 to 54.11% in 2023, reflecting a growing opportunity for male applicants. In contrast, the female admission rate, while also increasing, has fluctuated more noticeably, starting at around 55.15% in 2009 and ending at approximately 64.49% in 2023.
A striking observation is the consistent rise in overall enrollment numbers, with a peak of 1,341 students in 2023. This increase in enrollment suggests that SUNY Cortland is actively attracting a larger pool of applicants, which may be a response to growing demand for higher education or enhanced institutional offerings. Meanwhile, the number of denied applicants has decreased over the years, indicating a more selective admissions process aligning with the increase in overall applications.
The data also highlights a notable number of deferred admissions, peaking at 5,688 in 2022. This could suggest that many students are still considering their options or that the university is practicing a more cautious approach in its admissions strategy.
Overall, the trends at SUNY Cortland exemplify the evolving landscape of higher education admissions, where institutions are increasingly navigating the balance between accessibility and selectivity. As the university continues to adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in response to national and global educational dynamics.
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 Admissions Data at SUNY Cortland
The admissions data from the State University of New York at Cortland over the years indicates a notable trend in both the submission rates of standardized test scores and the scores themselves. Starting from 2007, where nearly all admitted students submitted SAT scores, there has been a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants providing these scores, dropping to just 12% by 2022 and 2023. This decline aligns with a broader trend across many universities, where standardized testing requirements have been relaxed or made optional, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of scores, the range of the SAT Reading and Mathematics sections has shown a slight upward trend, with the 25th percentile starting at 480 in 2007 and reaching 540 by 2023. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also increased, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to perform better. This suggests a shift in the profile of admitted students who may be more academically prepared.
The data also reveals fluctuations in the overall number of applicants, with a peak in 2008 and a steady decline afterward, which could be reflective of changing demographics, economic factors, or competition from other institutions. The overall decrease in the number of applicants submitting scores, coupled with the rising quality of those scores, suggests that SUNY Cortland is becoming increasingly selective in its admissions process.
As universities continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes and societal needs, SUNY Cortland's data reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic preparedness and the evolving nature of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
17,571 applicants in 2025, 59.8% admitted
10,505 admitted 7,066 not admitted Yield 13.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's143 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's47 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's36 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's32 (6% international)
- Health Teacher Education · Master's31 (0% international)
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching · Master's21 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at State University of New York at Cortland
The graduation data from the State University of New York at Cortland reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the Psychology program stands out with a substantial number of bachelor's degree recipients, totaling 93 graduates. This aligns with national trends showing a growing interest in psychology, likely fueled by increasing awareness of mental health issues and the demand for psychological services.
In the realm of business, the Business/Managerial Economics program produced 88 bachelor's degree graduates, with one international student among them. This highlights the global appeal of business-oriented education, which continues to attract students from diverse backgrounds. The presence of international students in this program, albeit minimal, reflects the institution's capacity to draw global talent, indicating a potential for broader cultural exchange and collaboration.
Interestingly, the education-related fields, particularly Reading Teacher Education, have shown a significant output with 71 master's degrees awarded. This suggests a strong emphasis on developing qualified educators, which is essential given the ongoing challenges in the education sector exacerbated by the pandemic. However, the absence of graduates in associate, doctoral, and international categories in many programs raises questions about the inclusivity and accessibility of these fields, especially in education and social sciences.
Overall, while certain programs have robust graduation rates, others appear stagnant, particularly in advanced degrees. This discrepancy may warrant further investigation to ensure that all fields are adequately supported and that students have access to comprehensive educational opportunities.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision, Other. | - | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs. | $54,907 | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs. | $54,907 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,560-$55,625 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $45,560-$55,625 | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Health Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Chemistry Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| French Language Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Physics Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | $51,522-$60,550 | ||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | - | ||
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | - | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $33,486-$55,669 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $33,486-$55,669 | ||
| Physical Fitness Technician. | $33,486-$55,669 | ||
| Sports Studies. | $33,486-$55,669 | ||
| Outdoor Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Managerial Economics. | $50,625 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,539 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | $61,031 | ||
| Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $61,031 | ||
| Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management. | $38,489 | ||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||
| Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | ||
| Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. | $42,340 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Archeology. | - | ||
| Criminology. | $36,089 | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Geographic Information Science and Cartography. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $37,447 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,320 | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $37,320 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Conservation Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $39,334 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $34,350 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $37,292 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - | ||
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
6,938 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 81.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,105
- First-year undergraduates 1,394
- Graduate students 1,027
- Transfers and others 412
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,911)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at SUNY Cortland in 2023
The student demographic data from the State University of New York at Cortland for the year 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic educational environment. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,341, with a slightly higher representation of female students, who make up 52.3% of this group. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, where females account for 55.1% of the 4,135 students. Such gender distribution reflects a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment often exceeds that of males.
For undergraduate transfer students, the balance shifts slightly, with males representing 53% of the 504 students. This may suggest that transfer students are more likely to be male, possibly due to varying academic paths taken by students. In stark contrast, the graduate student population is predominantly female, with females constituting 75.8% of the 697 students. This significant disparity highlights the increasing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, which is a positive indicator of gender equity in higher education.
The racial and ethnic breakdown provides further insights into the university's diversity. While detailed data for the specific subcategories is not fully available, the presence of white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students indicates a multicultural atmosphere. This diversity not only enriches the academic experience but also prepares students for a globalized society.
In summary, SUNY Cortland's student demographics for 2023 showcase a balanced representation across genders and a commitment to fostering a diverse educational environment. The increasing enrollment of women in both undergraduate and graduate programs is particularly noteworthy, reflecting positive societal shifts towards gender equality in education.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at SUNY Cortland
The age composition of students at the State University of New York at Cortland reveals notable trends that reflect broader educational patterns in the United States. The largest segment of the student body is concentrated in the 18-19 age group, with a total of 2,512 students, which accounts for approximately 63% of the total enrollment. This aligns with national trends where younger students, particularly those fresh out of high school, dominate undergraduate populations.
As students progress in age, there is a significant decline in enrollment. The 20-21 age group follows closely, comprising about 28% of the total student population. Interestingly, the numbers begin to taper off significantly in the 22-24 age range, where there are only 956 students, representing around 24% of the total. This decrease could indicate that many students either graduate or drop out before reaching their mid-twenties.
The data also highlight a smaller yet noticeable presence of non-traditional students aged 25 and older, comprising only about 6% of the total population. This reflects a national trend where older students are increasingly returning to education, although they still represent a minority in traditional university settings. The 35-39 age group, for instance, accounts for just over 1% of total enrollment, which indicates that while there is a growing acceptance of lifelong learning, younger students still dominate the landscape.
In conclusion, the age demographics at SUNY Cortland illustrate the typical trends of higher education in the U.S., with a strong emphasis on younger, traditional students, while also acknowledging the presence of non-traditional learners seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.
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.
57 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
5 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at SUNY Cortland
The data concerning international student enrollment at the State University of New York at Cortland reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students fluctuated, peaking at 68 students in 2007, corresponding to 1.14% of the total undergraduate population. This percentage, while modest, reflects a gradual increase in the international presence during the late 2000s.
However, the years following 2012 show a worrying decline in both absolute numbers and percentage share of international students. By 2021, the proportion of international undergraduates dropped to 0.34%, the lowest in the recorded period, indicating potential challenges in attracting global talent amid increasing competition from other institutions. The trend appears to stabilize somewhat in the following years, with a slight rebound to 0.52% in 2023.
On the graduate side, the enrollment of international students has shown more volatility. The highest percentage recorded was 2.92% in 2012, but like the undergraduate figures, it has seen a drop to just 0.57% by 2023. This decline may be attributed to multiple factors, including visa regulations, the global pandemic, and shifting perceptions of U.S. higher education.
In light of recent geopolitical events and changes in immigration policies, universities are encouraged to diversify their outreach and support for international students. As institutions strive to enhance their global engagement, SUNY Cortland must evaluate its strategies to attract and retain international talent, which is essential for enriching the educational environment and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$34,344
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,784
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,874
- Room and board
- $15,560
- Graduate tuition
- $24,904
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 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$207M
Expenses$184M
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 · Empire Eight · State University of New York Athletic Conference
Empire Eight: football
State University of New York Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 75 | 53 |
| Football | 127 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 65 | 44 |
| Lacrosse | 70 | 33 |
| Soccer | 35 | 35 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 30 | 28 |
| Wrestling | 51 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 25 |
| Cross Country | 27 | 22 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 17 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Gymnastics | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | - | 13 |
| Golf | - | 5 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 79 | 60 |
| Football | 117 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 61 | 50 |
| Lacrosse | 56 | 31 |
| Soccer | 35 | 32 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 29 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 31 | 23 |
| Cross Country | 26 | 26 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Wrestling | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 27 |
| Gymnastics | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | - | 14 |
| Golf | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 134 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 72 | 59 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 72 | 54 |
| Lacrosse | 58 | 28 |
| Soccer | 46 | 33 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 34 | 26 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 29 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Wrestling | 44 | - |
| Cross Country | 23 | 19 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Gymnastics | - | 15 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Golf | - | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 18.3 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse · 30.4 mi
U.S. News #72
-
Colgate UniversityHamilton · 36.5 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Binghamton UniversityVestal · 37.0 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Hobart and William Smith CollegesGeneva · 44.3 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Hamilton CollegeClinton · 50.4 mi
Liberal Arts #14
-
University of RochesterRochester · 81.7 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester · 82.4 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Union CollegeSchenectady · 115.7 mi
Liberal Arts #44
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the State University of New York at Cortland:
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Cornell University - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Cornell is an Ivy League university located in Ithaca, New York. It is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a wide range of programs across various fields.
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Syracuse University - With a rank of 67, Syracuse University is a private research university famous for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life. It is located in Syracuse, New York.
-
Hamilton College - Ranked 16th, Hamilton College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in Clinton, New York. It emphasizes a rigorous academic curriculum and a close-knit community.
-
University of Rochester - This university is ranked 47th and is renowned for its research programs and strong emphasis on the liberal arts. Located in Rochester, New York, it offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute - Ranked 60th, RPI is a leading technological university located in Troy, New York. It is known for its engineering and technology programs.
-
Vassar College - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 16th and is located in Poughkeepsie, New York. Vassar is known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on the arts and humanities.
These institutions offer a range 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
Analysis of Crime Data at State University of New York at Cortland
The crime data for State University of New York at Cortland over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates among students. Starting from 2013, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was at a higher rate of 23.30, with a peak in 2019 at 32.17. This suggests a troubling trend in student safety on campus, particularly during those years, possibly reflecting broader societal issues such as increased substance abuse and violence.
However, there is a noticeable decline in crime rates from 2020 onwards. In 2021, the average dropped to 8.87, which is significantly lower compared to previous years. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including improved campus security measures, heightened awareness and preventive programs, or even the impact of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced the number of students on campus.
Interestingly, the data indicates that incidents involving domestic violence and sexual offenses have been part of the recorded crimes but without specific numbers detailed in the summary. The national conversation surrounding sexual assault and domestic violence on college campuses has prompted many institutions to take more robust action in addressing these issues.
The downward trend in recent years is encouraging, but continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure that the campus remains a safe environment for all students. The data serves as a reminder of the importance of campus safety initiatives and the need for ongoing dialogue about crime prevention.
For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Recent News at SUNY Cortland
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Seven SUNY Cortland faculty and professional staff members will receive the 2025 State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence across categories including teaching, scholarship, librarianship, and service.
Source:www2.cortland.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.