2024 Best Colleges for Physics in New York

• Ithaca, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  2,051 reviews

Sophomore: Although I have not yet graduated from Cornell University, my experience thus far has been both demanding and rewarding. The academic rigor and high standards have challenged me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence. While the workload can be overwhelming at times, I believe that the difficulties I have faced will ultimately pay off in terms of career opportunities. Cornell's prestigious reputation and strong emphasis on research and innovation provide a solid foundation for future success. With access to renowned faculty, extensive resources, and a supportive community, I am confident that my time at Cornell will pave the way for a promising professional journey.... Read 2,051 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $24,262

• SAT range 1450-1560

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,327 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 1,327 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $12,411

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,588 reviews

Freshman: Academic Experience: Being a student at the University of Rochester would likely involve rigorous academic programs. The university is known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education and fostering critical thinking skills. The Rochester Curriculum, which emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allows me to explore a variety of subjects beyond my major. Campus Life: The campus, located along the Genesee River, offeres a beautiful and picturesque setting for me. I enjoy spending time in the libraries, student centers, and recreational facilities. Campus life includes involvement in student clubs, organizations, and cultural events. Community Engagement: The University of Rochester places importance on community engagement. I have participated in community service projects or collaborated with local organizations, contributing to both my personal growth and the betterment of the community.... Read 1,588 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $40,125

• SAT range 1370-1520

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,647 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 5,647 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Troy, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,089 reviews

Sophomore: RPI is an esteemed technical school that offers an excellent environment for learning engineering. The faculty members at RPI are knowledgeable and provide thorough explanations of each topic, with abundant resources to aid. Many of my teachers were inspiring, such as Professor Uchida, Professor Patterson, and Professor Kiehl, fueling my passion to pursue a career in engineering. While my first year at RPI was primarily focused on academics, I also had the time to socialize with my peers. However, it would be great to see more social activities to enhance campus life and allow students to unwind from their studies. Additionally, I believe there is room for improvement in the variety of food served in RPI's dining halls. While there are always hamburgers and pizza available, incorporating a greater selection of healthier and appetizing options on a daily basis would be beneficial. Despite these suggestions for improvement, RPI remains an exceptional institution for acquiring a degree.... Read 1,089 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,070

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Hamilton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,042 reviews

Sophomore: Colgate University has opened doors for me in countless ways. The rich alumni network is widely used by students through our amazing career services office. Additionally, I have been given opportunities to connect with possible employers and have even gotten a job as a result! Additionally, the school itself is very work hard play hard. I am enrolled in academically rigorous classes but I can also have so much fun here!... Read 1,042 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $24,500

• SAT range 1350-1500

• Clinton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  484 reviews

Freshman: It's an amazing campus with beautiful and kind professors, students, staff, etc. Everyone is willing to help you and no one leaves you hanging. I'd really recommend checking out this college to see if it's for you!... Read 484 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $26,803

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Poughkeepsie, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  663 reviews

Sophomore: Vassar College has ample opportunities in most fields of study and well-respected/high-quality academics. Considering its student population, its opportunities for independent research alongside professors are outstanding. Help will always be provided to those who seek it in searches for internships, graduate school advising, and career development. Students have a great relationship with their professors. I would change the manner in which credit registration caps are managed and total credit hours are assessed and provide some more freedom in courses, even though the school does have the coveted open curriculum. Overall, the student body is very engaged, and there is a very active student government. There is a crowd for everyone and any preferred social and academic life.... Read 663 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $27,249

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,837 reviews

Junior: It's been great so far! The campus is always overflowing with people, there are a lot of opportunities to connect with others and lots of fun events. Every year there are multiple festivals and carnivals that the university holds to keep the students engaged. There are also many programs that the university sponsors and supports in order to help the students achieve their personal professional goals. I am personally part of the DPLN program and pledging for BAP, and it has overall been a great experience. I feel like I am really getting the most out of my college education and it has been amazing.... Read 2,837 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  2,782 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love RIT! Although primarily a tech school, there are so many unique people and personalities that attend, proving that everybody will find their people here, no matter who you are. Additionally, there are so many programs to choose from, and many have notable alum within the department. For example, our College of Art and Design is best known for their successful photography programs and film and animation. There are so many ways to get involved in clubs and organizations! From athletics to greek life, gaming clubs, and many more. There is something for everybody. Also, RIT's co-op program makes it one of the best options for students who are career-driven. Having the opportunity to partake in 2 (or more) paid internships while still in college helps pave the way for the future and helps them put their best foot forward when looking for a job post-grad. In may cases, students are offered full-time positions before they even graduate! Going to RIT was the best decision!... Read 2,782 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $35,012

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,524 reviews

Sophomore: I love Syracuse. The atmosphere, people, activites, and education is phenomenal! I thoroughly enjoyed the educational opportunities they provide such as office hours, recorded lectures, and an extensive array of courses offered at this university. I also enjoyed the programs they offer to help you get involved with the community and other students. For example, the multicultural club provided much support and information that will stay with its members forever. In addition to this, they provide support to members of the military offering them special education programs, care packages, and anything else they needed. This university cares about its students and will make sure you have everything you need to flourish academically and socially. Overall, I highly recommend this school as it will give you an excellent education, provide so many social opportunities, as well as help you maintain your physical and mental health. They even have a wellness center.... Read 3,524 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $43,545

• SAT range 1220-1400

• Potsdam, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  915 reviews

Senior: My experience overall at Clarkson has been very positive! After things cleared up following the pandemic, and restrictions were loosened, Clarkson has been amazing. What sets Clarkson apart from other schools is the student body. It is such a welcoming and friendly group of students and I have truly met some of the most amazing people at Clarkson. As a member of the biology and psychology programs, I have also gotten to work with some amazing professors. If you seek it, there are ample opportunities for students!... Read 915 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $31,413

• SAT range 1180-1380

• Saratoga Springs, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  658 reviews

Junior: I love my experience at Skidmore. My first year, I was able to take a variety of classes in different departments to figure out where I felt most at home, and many of our classes are interdisciplinary. It is easy and encouraged to have multiple majors/minors, and most professors are amazing! They truly are a great resource that I was not expecting to have, especially coming from a bigger high school. I have been fortunate to hold several campus jobs, including being a tour guide, tutor, and RA. There are also tons of opportunities for students to get involved in administrative, career-preparing work through our SGA and various campus committees--most searches and voting committees will have at least one student representative, and overall the opportunities are vast.... Read 658 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $31,553

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Vestal, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,606 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my time at Binghamton University. I am pursuing medical degree after my undergraduate and have received a lot of support from Binghamton's academic advising to make sure that I am on track. Taking online classes during the pandemic shut down was an interesting way to start my journey at Binghamton University, but they managed to adapt to changing circumstances and deliver impeccable educational content. Binghamton offers many ways to get involved with the research and outreach that the university is engaged in. For example, I am a part of two of the psychological research labs on campus. One thing that I would like to see change at Binghamton is more work opportunities and resources offered to students who are struggling financially. I, like many of my peers, have put myself through school without contribution from family and more economically enriching opportunities would have helped me support myself through my education. Thank you!... Read 2,606 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $17,881

• SAT range 1310-1470

• West Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  466 reviews

Junior: Even though the past year has been tough because of COVID restrictions, I have had overall a pretty good time at West Point. The people here are mainly what makes it worth it--I've made friends that I know will last a lifetime. There are also endless opportunities (both during the semester and summer), especially if you want to get involved with research as an undergraduate. I have been able to publish my research in well known journals and conduct research alongside experts professors in the field I hope to pursue graduate school. The academics are not too hard, but it is very hit or miss in the core classes, because the instructors are randomly assigned and you don't get to choose. You might end up with someone not that great. However, in the upper division classes in the major, instructors are amazing and passionate about the subject. I really enjoy most parts about West Point and I look forward to commissioning as an army officer!... Read 466 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1200-1440

• Schenectady, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  610 reviews

Alum: My experience throughout my four years at Union College was nothing short of great from the quality of education, the support from professors, and the social scene. I learned so many applicable skills from my biology degree that I utilized in my laboratory position after I graduated. The addition of the new Integrated Science and Engineering building during my senior year offers great lab space and experience for future students who are interested in those majors. Since it's a small college, professors are very easy to communicate with, have a lot of time for office hours and individual meetings, and return grades and feedback in a very timely manner. I also met people whom I consider some of my closest friends through different student activities including Greek life. Union College is a great place to learn and have fun and offers a great alumni network post graduation.... Read 610 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $39,101

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Buffalo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,080 reviews

Alum: Overall pretty satisfied with my undergraduate experience, but SUNY Buffalo is definitely a school that might not appeal to everybody. If you're a fan of big schools like myself, then it's great; plenty of campus activities and sports, absolutely amazing food choices (the dorm even has a grocery store), different campuses with different vibes for different people, and so many groups of people from all different walks of life. However, it's definitely huge party school (a pro and a con), and there's some safety issues outside of South campus to be aware of. Likewise, due to the massive class size, it's essential to be self-reliant/driven in your studies, and I could definitely see the 500 person lecture halls and greater difficulty connecting with professors turning-off people from UB. Parts of North campus itself does look a bit visually unappealing, and parking is a constant issue among students as well. However, if you're looking for a city within a school feel, UB is the way to go!... Read 3,080 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,954

• SAT range 1180-1360

• New Paltz, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,446 reviews

Sophomore: I like how encouraging New Paltz is to its students! It feels like they really care about the student body. A decent amount of the professors just want their students to understand material and not be in crippling debt so they’ll do things like upload free resources or not require a textbook; it’s very much appreciated. The overall campus feels pretty safe too! It truly feels like they have our best interest in mind. Although New Paltz promotes equity amongst its student body, I would like to see that further enforced. Students from certain minority groups tend to be represented. However, I would like to see students of color to get the protection and acknowledgment they deserve. The student body is fairly white, which isn’t an issue until that ushers in ignorant comments and prejudice toward POC students. New Paltz tries to avoid racial biases, and negative interactions, but they do happen, and when they do, they aren’t taken that seriously. That definitely needs to change.... Read 1,446 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $15,318

• SAT range 1150-1280

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  626 reviews

Freshman: Le Moyne College in my opinion is this tiny little paradise right outside syracuse. When I was choosing a school, I originally didn’t want to stay local but when I visited Le Moyne, I knew this was the right fit. The dorms are really great. There are 3 to choose from and everyone says their building is the best. The food here is also amazing and there are so many choices. The professors are all amazing. Mine has already promised me a trip to Italy next spring. I cannot wait to be on campus again in the fall to be surrounded by all the amazing people at Le Moyne. There is such a variety of clubs to chose from. I personally choose to be apart of the Le Moyne symphony as a string player. I have played strings my whole life and continuing at Le Moyne is so great. The conductor is so helpful and welcoming to all new members. Le Moyne is just such a great school to be at!... Read 626 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $24,618

• SAT range 1140-1290

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  294 reviews

Graduate Student: The level of academics at Yeshiva University is quite high, with fascinating and relevant classes! Having the opportunity to be exposed and learn from experienced professionals in the field as adjunct professors is an unparalleled learning experience.... Read 294 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $36,807

• SAT range 1140-1410

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,826 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 1,826 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Geneseo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,038 reviews

Alum: SUNY Geneseo not only has a wonderful, intimate, and warm (not literally, unfortunately) student body and faculty, but also offers a thorough and extensive education. I graduated with two major and one minor degree and I both feel prepared for graduate school and to enter the real world. I had more than one advisor and I only have positive things to attribute to the professors I learned under. The only reason I gave SUNY Geneseo 4 stars compared to 5 is due to its response to how students reacted to political turmoil and the way administration dealt with issues of racism and bigotry on campus. When a mural of George Floyd was defaced with USA propoganda and "All Live Matter" smeared across artwork that attempted to highlight the need for amplifying black voices, administration simply put a velvet rope around where it was painted and banned any future artwork without going through a bunch of red tape. Further, the perpetrator did not face any punishment from administration.... Read 1,038 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $20,594

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Albany, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,487 reviews

Senior: Hey, so I'm a senior at University at Albany, SUNY, and I'm loving it so far! The variety of academic programs is awesome, and I'm already eyeing some research opportunities. Campus facilities are pretty modern, but some classes are big. It'd be cool if they had smaller ones. Super diverse student body, which is great. Location-wise, being in Albany is sweet – lots of chances for internships and stuff. Maybe some more parking options would be nice, and I've heard mixed things about student support services. But overall, I'm excited to see how my time here unfolds! 😄🎓... Read 2,487 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,350

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Canton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  774 reviews

Junior: St. Lawrence is a very niche school. Most people love it, but some might find its location to be challenging. This, however, is seen as an advantage by most students here. We all stay on campus for a majority of the semester (though there are plentiful trips to take off campus every week sponsored by clubs on campus) and this keeps us all close. The wet campus policy (anyone can have open containers anywhere on campus property) allows students to not exclude others from social events and nightlife. This school is a great party school and it is a huge part of our culture, but we are all academic weapons (for the most part). Work-hard play-hard is our mentality and the alumni value that. This is why we are ranked #4 for alumni outreach. People know what type of person goes to SLU. You will make friends here. You will have fun here. You will learn well and be academically challenged here. You will live a successful life post-grad by going here. The choice is yours.... Read 774 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $31,744

• SAT range 1220-1400

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,397 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 2,397 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $4,586

• SAT range 1170-1340