2024 Best Colleges for Physics in the New York City Area

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,336 reviews

Junior: As a Columbia University student, I am proud of myself and I feel very lucky. The school's name alone boasts prestige and prominence, as so many Nobel Prize winners, presidents, and successful businesspeople hail from the university. To be a part of this community, one that fosters community support as well as a push to strive for self improvement and global impact, has been incredibly motivating and exhilarating for me. I am very satisfied by the quality of my teachers and peers. The only things I would change are the tuition price and the humidity of NYC in the summer!... Read 1,336 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $12,411

• SAT range 1470-1570

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,672 reviews

Junior: To start, living on my own in the city has been an authentic experience that has helped me grow as a young adult, taking on new responsibilities and meeting different people! Overall, college is what you make it. There are so many resources and opportunities, some clearly offered and pushed, and some just found by research or who you know (so be friendly and make connections!). Regarding classes, my professors are very inspiring, with expertise and experience. With the educational aspect, you'll learn the concrete information (rules and details of a concept) by studying and reading; you have to put in your own effort if you want to learn, either on your own time out of class, or for an assignment. Discussions and work in class with the professor are more on the abstract side of things, regarding ideals and philosophies, making you think about the world around you and how you can make a positive impact. Content and work differs by class, but your education relies on your effort!... Read 5,672 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Piscataway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  6,039 reviews

Junior: Rutgers University is a transformative institution that offers a world-class education. The faculty's expertise and dedication to student success are remarkable. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing an excellent environment for learning and growth. Rutgers fosters a vibrant and diverse community, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. The university's emphasis on research and innovation opens doors to exciting opportunities. With extensive extracurricular offerings and a robust alumni network, Rutgers, particularly the Business School, prepares students for rewarding careers. Proud to be a Scarlet Knight!... Read 6,039 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  2,849 reviews

Junior: Stony Brook University has so many intelligent, caring professors and staff who make your time as a student worthwhile. The quality of education we are able to receive for the price of a SUNY school is practically unheard of. Classes can be challenging, but I feel like those challenges have been fair and have helped me to grow and learn, both academically and as a person. Our student body is diverse in all meanings of the term, and the people here have taught me so much about the world at large. There are so many clubs with passionate e-boards who serve our campus by fostering accepting communities. I'm proud to be a Seawolf!... Read 2,849 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Hoboken, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  721 reviews

Freshman: I loved Stevens Institute of Technology. I was first introduced to this college through my friends and family and fell in love with it at first sight! Now, I always enjoy studying with friends both old and new who are just as engaged in their academics as I am. To add on, I love the increased proximity to the city compared to where I reside at home. In this campus, I constantly have a view of New York, and I love visiting there all of the time with my friends. One of my favorite parts of Stevens was the dining experience. There was always a large amount of areas we can eat from, as well as many outside areas we could use our GrubHub Bucks on. I was always in a good mood due to the fact that I could order whatever I wanted, practically whenever I wanted. To conclude, the close parts and small amount of students allowed me to participate in classes that held a relatively small amount of students. The buildings on the campus were all very close to each other. I loved Stevens!... Read 721 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,828

• SAT range 1370-1510

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,151 reviews

Junior: I have loved my time here at Seton Hall! Since my first tour, I felt welcomed and a part of the campus community immediately. The sense of community at SHU is genuinely a game changer- I have met so many people from different majors, states, and even countries! One of my favorite things about Seton Hall is the academics here. Aside from having excellent and strong academic programs, the smaller class sizes and personalized attention have helped me grow and succeed as a student both in class and on campus. I have gotten to know exceptional faculty, and that personalized attention has helped me develop a strong bond with many of my professors! As a big school-spirit person, the events, Christmas tree lighting, and basketball games are so fun! It also is helpful being right outside NYC- a 30-minute train ride for internship opportunities, jobs, and entertainment is hard to beat!... Read 2,151 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  281 reviews

Senior: Great professors and faculty that cares. Like any other school there are some professors that just shouldn’t be teaching - however there aren’t many and you can easily avoid getting stuck with them by doing your research! I’m on the women’s campus, which isn’t much compared to the men’s campus - more specifically when it comes to facilities. I would have liked more space and equipment for music on the women’s campus.... Read 281 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $36,807

• SAT range 1140-1410

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,834 reviews

Alum: AMAZING education, amazing people, amazing environment. I just graduated with my bachelors and will go back for masters! If you are looking for a warm, welcoming university that emphasizes the importance of education in adults, I would recommend this college.There are various degrees and oppourtunite to succeed at CUNY CCNY. You will never feel like you are alone and you can always reach out to their amazing staff who is always there whenever you need them. The advising department as well as the financial aid department are super helpful and attentive to students. As far as student life goes, there are multiple events and clubs one can attend and become a part of. There is also a piano in the NAC building that is free for students to stop and play during their free times. Everyone I've met here are wonderful, kind hearted people and those are the ones that I will cherish forever. I have made many of my lifelong friends here and I am thankful for everything this college gave me.... Read 1,834 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  573 reviews

Junior: I love Drew! The campus is in a great, safe town! I’ve always felt safe walking around at night. The community here is amazing as well! I often find myself surrounded by so many friendly faces, big smiles, and people who are eager to help me in any way! Whether that be through my academic work, mental/physical health, or starting up my career. The campus really brings out the best in people and makes the experience overall amazing. I’ve even grown to love the workers who clean up campus at the crack of dawn haha. In the academics department, we have so many accredited professors. Lots of my professors have worked with professionals within my field, some even being awarded with prestigious prizes. Through them I have had the opportunity to speak to people of my interest and network. The student to faculty ratio at Drew University makes it very easy to find comfort and mentorship within your professors. overall, Drew is an amazing school! I have so much fun all the time! let’s go DREW!... Read 573 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,033

• SAT range 1030-1250

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,414 reviews

Alum: CUNY Hunter College was great for me, as someone who went to college right out of high school but wasn't yet sure of what I wanted to major in. All of my professors were phenomenal and I was able to get a good overview of what options I had in the first two years; I did not declare a major until the summer before my Junior year. It's a commuter school so it's easy to not get too involved with the culture but even so, in most majors you'll be taking a lot of classes with the same people, so it's still not difficult to get to know people. If you do want to get involved though, there are so many clubs! The workload is not unreasonably rigorous. Some classes are difficult, but for the most part, professors understand you have other commitments.... Read 2,414 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $4,586

• SAT range 1170-1340

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,252 reviews

Sophomore: Currently a sophomore student at Queens College and it is great so far! There are lots of clubs & activities to do on campus, internship opportunities, very fun social events from time to time. The drama program is excellent, offering plenty of performance opportunities to work with professionals in the theater world. The professors are all very passionate about what they do. But something I would like to see changed are quicker responses to emails regarding financial aid/registrar inquiries. I would also love to see more vegan food options in the cafeteria. There is not really a party scene because most people are commuters so everyone seems to be doing their own partying or fun on their own. Overall, I am having a great experience!... Read 1,252 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $4,777

• SAT range 1040-1190

• Garden City, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,391 reviews

Graduate Student: Beautiful campus, friendly faculty members, supportive professors and amazing classmates from all over the world. In Adelphi, we make this place as an international community, everyone is part of this big family. Studying here is the best choice I have ever made in my life and this experience has completely changed my life from so many perspectives, I am glad and proud that I become an alumni from Adelphi. Academically, professors have rich clinical experiences and conducting several research which could facilitate you with basic knowledge of research design and later on being helpful if you are planning for PhD degree or becoming a clinical workers. Environmentally, it’s a safe and friendly campus with so many goodness, students are encouraged to participate in different activities and events. Lastly, our great career center plays a key role from student’s perspective, internship, resume, interview skills etc. Adelphi can help you to achieve your career success, join us!... Read 1,391 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $28,261

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,113 reviews

Alum: Lehman was an excellent decision that I have made in my life. I have had received my BSN in 2015 and I can say the campus is great. It’s located in a quiet area! Near the buses and alll trains which was a plus point! Professors were always available and study areas were always available as well! Professors wanted you to learn and mainly understand the content instead of just reading off PowerPoints. Food is almost great there. There is a cafeteria and food trucks as well! A park in front of you want to sit in the park and study. We used blackboard at that time and it made it easier to Submit homework, take online test, contact professors. I’m pleased with this university.... Read 1,113 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $3,220

• SAT range 960-1080

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,028 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,028 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,273 reviews

Freshman: The school year has just begun, but I can already say I love it! Right before school began, I got a sense of community from a peer mentor reaching out to ensure I had a smooth start to my freshman year. Getting enrolled in my classes was an easy process thanks to the staff. The campus is beautiful and has many areas available to students which is a freedom I admire. Most importantly, I feel challenged in my classes, and the professors, despite what others may think, provide a fair academic experience through informative lectures and grading. I will say, that I wish course options were more open to undergraduate freshmen. It's understandable that those who have been enrolled longer have priority over choosing courses, but it was disappointing to find out I didn't have complete freedom over my schedule.... Read 1,273 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $4,254

• SAT range 1020-1180

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,139 reviews

Freshman: As someone who is freshly graduated from high school, I was really anxious and scared about going to college. Thankfully everyone at Montclair was super helpful, kind, and patient with me. The actual campus itself is gorgeous, and at least gets me a bit of exercise every time I have class since it's on a hill. There are so many amenities on the grounds and after a few months, everything become relatively close and easy to find. Overall, I've really enjoyed my freshman year at Montclair, and hope to have an even better Sophomore year!... Read 3,139 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,129 reviews

Junior: Learning can be stimulating and memorable when it is delivered by enthusiastic instructors that support discussion and critical thinking in their challenging and inspiring classes. You can follow your interests outside of the classroom, meet like-minded individuals, and learn new skills by joining groups, organizations, or sports teams. A period for self-discovery is college. Discovering your strengths and widening your perspective can be achieved by studying abroad, taking on leadership responsibilities, and experimenting with other courses. It's critical to strike a balance between your social life, academics, and self-care. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and controlling your stress all improve your general wellbeing. While everyone's ideal college experience is different.... Read 3,129 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $26,655

• SAT range 1100-1310

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,943 reviews

Alum: Fordham as a Biology major is a very different experience than that of the Business School, they did prepare us well in terms of courses required to apply to graduate medical programs. However, I recall begging professors to open more class sections for the most basic courses (human anatomy and phys) required for schools. They underestimated how many students needed to complete these basic science courses in order to be eligible for graduate programs. Further, they proposed we take Biology and Chemistry at the same time our first year so we “required less overall credits to graduate.” With labs and other courses, I ended up having way more than the amount of credits required anyways, thus negating the appeal of taking both at the same time in the first place. It was a “weeding out” process. When I asked for help, my advisor stated I was “not serious enough to pursue medicine,” but I sought out my own advisor, and here I am now! En route to PA school.... Read 1,943 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $37,583

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.36 out of 5  1,013 reviews

Junior: I love the classes are based on the time you are able too! The professors are great at teaching and making sure students are understanding the topic during class. Staff and faculty assisting students where they are suppose to be at wether at registrar, FAFSA office, or cafeteria. The community is full of ambition and great integrity.... Read 1,013 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $5,457

• SAT range 843-1030

• Staten Island, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,094 reviews

Freshman: The college of Staten Island offers a variety of academic programs in a modern campus environment. Students appreciate the opportunity to choose from a variety of majors and benefit from knowledgeable faculty. Located on Staten Island, the college offers a suburban setting with access to New York City resources. However, some students expressed concerns about student services, including career counseling and academic counseling, and wished for a more dynamic campus life. Improving these areas, along with strengthening communication channels, can further enhance the overall experience at the College of Staten Island.... Read 1,094 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,818

• SAT range —

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,246 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at NJIT has been rewarding, both academically and socially. The courses are challenging but fulfilling, each offering unique material that has helped me grow. Professors are approachable and dedicated, adding value to the educational experience. On the social front, I've met incredible friends and peers who have become an integral part of my daily life. We've formed a close-knit community that enriches my overall well-being. However, there's room for improvement. I'd recommend adding diverse food options like Chinese cuisine to the commuter's lounge. Also, bringing back the couches in the basement would enhance the student experience by providing a comfortable space for relaxation and socializing.... Read 1,246 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,212 reviews

Junior: I give 5 stars based on programs that help with tuition. I was told I was eligible so when fall starts, I should be covered. However, I do think as a state school, the cost of tuition should drop. Additionally, if it stays at the cost now, there should be significant upgrades and renovations. The bathrooms are total crap, they smell like urine and all the stall hinges are broken. Just leave the door open because it won’t close. Wave when someone walks past. There are roaches crawling in hill hall in real-time. Printers always breaking. Computer labs are old. Chairs have stains. Teachers barley have supplies! my god, the amount of times my professor had to beg his colleague for chalk or a marker. Projectors never work. I could go on, but it’ll put you to sleep. Overall, 16k, I should have pride in my school. (Sometimes I tell people I go to New Brunswick because of the stare a get when I say Newark ). I could use that MacBook though. I need a computer for fall ! Help me out! :)... Read 1,212 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Hempstead, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  2,350 reviews

Senior: Over my years at Hofstra I really grew to love the university. At first it was very overwhelming considering the size of the campus and the student body, but that’s what I love the most about my school. Hofstra also provides so many amazing opportunities when it comes to clubs and organizations for anyone’s interest. The faculty and community here at Hofstra is also like no other, everyone is more than willing to help and have the best attitudes when doing so!... Read 2,350 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $33,234

• SAT range 1180-1370

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  766 reviews

Graduate Student: I loved this college! I loved KBCC! Firstly, it has a great location with ample space for college events. The college organizes various events with games and food. Additionally, KBCC has its own art gallery where every student has the opportunity to showcase their artwork. The president may even purchase standout pieces for the KBCC art collection. The college also has a fantastic farming space where organizers grow vegetables for students, professors, and the cooking program. Volunteering is also encouraged. KBCC offers a diverse range of clubs, a great library with eight floors and a stunning view, as well as excellent sports facilities. The professors, advisors, and staff are supportive and understanding. I'm grateful for my positive learning experience at KBCC. I'm thankful for everything!... Read 766 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,128

• SAT range —

• Brookville, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,839 reviews

Junior: LIU Post is a great school with a gorgeous campus. They did an especially great job in keeping all students and faculty safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and that really made me feel good to be a student there. Professors are all qualified and know their stuff, too. There is never a dull moment and they do a great job at creating a comfortable social setting as well. Only thing I would change is the faculty that works in the Promise Office. They are not always the most helpful and tend to make students feel like they need to fend for themselves in order to do things for themselves like building a schedule. But over all, great school and I'm happy to go there!... Read 1,839 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $22,620

• SAT range 1100-1320