2024 Best Colleges for Political Science in New York

• 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

• 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 3.75 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

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  469 reviews

Alum: Barnard is very unique, as it’s an undergraduate college of Columbia University (yes, that makes it an Ivy League) but also a tight-knit women’s college. The Columbia Daily Spectator calls it “the only women’s college in the Ivy League.” Lots of recruited athletes at Columbia can go to Barnard instead of CC (Columbia College). A lot of friends were recruited CU athletes at Barnard. It’s also different from other women’s colleges because it feels like a women’s dorm at Columbia. It’s sooo integrated and feels co-Ed! The leaders of most Columbia clubs are Barnard women tbh. It can be annoying to constantly explain to people that Barnard is 100% integrated with the other schools at CU though. The internships at Barnard are INSANE. I was a history major and got internships at top investment banks, big tech companies, famous TV shows and more. It was so easy to get a good job, in part because Barnard alums are obsessed with hiring other Barnard students. NYC was also so fun to be in.... Read 469 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $28,366

• SAT range 1380-1550

• 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

• Vestal, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,608 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 2,608 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $17,881

• SAT range 1310-1470

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,525 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 3,525 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $43,545

• SAT range 1220-1400

• 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

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,930 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 1,930 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $37,583

• SAT range 1300-1480

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Schenectady, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  611 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 611 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $39,101

• SAT range 1270-1450

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,386 reviews

Senior: John Jay is a great choice for many students. I can personally speak to my experience as a STEM student in the Forensic Science major. The class sizes are small, so students have a more meaningful relationship with their mentors. There are lots of clubs and campus activities for students to partake in, and it's not unusual to be on my way to class to randomly see goodie bags or free food for an event in hound square! John Jay does not have a traditional campus feel (most of the population is made up of commuters) but makes up for it with its facilities. The JayWalk is a gorgeous courtyard where students often relax between classes and enjoy the weather. Furthermore, there are so many hidden gems for food and recreational activities in the blocks surrounding campus, which feel very safe. In fact, a few food places (shout out to Justino's Pizza) gives student discounts for food! CUNY is fantastic with internship/externship/research programs for undergraduate students. Best of luck!... Read 1,386 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• 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

• 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

• Buffalo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,081 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 3,081 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,954

• SAT range 1180-1360

• Hempstead, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  2,338 reviews

Sophomore: Hofstra university is a excellent school that provides a person with experience and an above average education. The professor are caring people who know you by name and appearance. It is not like any other college where your professor see you as nothing more than a number or a barcode. At Hofstra you feel like you matter academically. Professor are extremely knowledgeable in their field of study and have multiple years of experience to back it up. The food it average however that is easily replaced by the surrounding area. Which filled with diverse food options ranging from Caribbean to Asian cuisine. If you love the big city Hofstra provides you that and more! If you really put yourself out their, you will see the beauty of this campus and the experience.... Read 2,338 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $33,234

• SAT range 1180-1370

• Saint Bonaventure, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  476 reviews

Niche User: I've committed to play ball at St Bonaventure, and everything about the recruiting process has been incredible. On my visit, everyone was so kind, and genuine, and really seemed to love this school. I'm not just talking the students, but the Uni staff, and people all over the town. I mean, people LOVE this school! On my flight home, wearing a Bonnies t-shirt at the airport/on the plane, half a dozen people called out to me "Bonnies!" The love is real.... Read 476 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $25,533

• SAT range 1070-1270

• 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

• 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

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,435 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Baruch College was exceptional. I had experienced professors from corporations and media who educated me on the fundamentals of communications and interpersonal selling. In addition to this, I was educated on the importance of literature and how it applies to social interaction. According to the Greek philosopher Socrates, “To know, is to know that you know nothing.” One who claims to be always right is someone who is afraid to be corrected. Conversational intelligence can dictate the direction of the next emotion or instill a memory; hence, why communication should be taken seriously and used as an instrument to guarantee a profitable outcome. The importance of communication is not only allowing information to be exchanged but ensuring the information is received.... Read 1,435 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $3,793

• SAT range 1170-1360

• Geneva, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.4 out of 5  632 reviews

Junior: HWS is a great place to study and live! The school works very hard to provide opportunities for students in and out of the class room. I have been able to participate in International business case competitions, ski on the ski team, and get great internships through the Salisbury center for career development. I love the classic Liberal Arts College teaching style, we read and write a lot but you'll come out of HWS a really hard worker. Economic department is the best!... Read 632 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $34,239

• SAT range 1170-1370

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,262 reviews

Alum: I liked the commute to Brooklyn College and the classes I took. I wish they had more flexibility when it came to required classes that were only available at night but overall it was a good experience. Something I would recommend to them is updating their online system. At times I found it quite challenging to navigate and getting someone to help you was often tricky. My academic advisor was amazing and the most helpful person throughout my Brooklyn College experience. She was frankly the only helpful person during my Brooklyn College experience. All of the psychology classes that I took were amazing! The campus was pretty during the springtime and I often felt safe, especially when traveling for nighttime and weekend classes. I didn't utilize the campus much since I was a commuter student. An annoying thing about taking classes during Covid were the random covid test checks that would pop up on your student account but without email warning.... Read 1,262 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $4,254

• SAT range 1020-1180