2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in the New York City Area

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,334 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 1,334 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $12,411

• SAT range 1470-1570

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  472 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 472 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $28,366

• SAT range 1380-1550

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,670 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 5,670 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  817 reviews

Other: I had the pleasure of studying at Monroe College - Bronx/New Rochelle as a student from Kazakhstan, and I am delighted to share my review of this institution. Monroe College truly provided an exceptional experience, and I was particularly drawn to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that embraced international students like myself. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I felt a sense of inclusivity and support. The staff and faculty at Monroe College demonstrated genuine care and dedication in assisting international students with their academic and personal needs. Whether it was guidance on course selection, navigating campus resources, or providing cultural support, the support system at Monroe College was exceptional. The multicultural environment at Monroe College was vibrant and enriching. Interacting with students from various backgrounds and nationalities fostered a sense of global community, and it allowed me to develop lifelong friendships and connections.... Read 817 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $12,054

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,394 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 1,394 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Piscataway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  6,038 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 6,038 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,109 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 1,109 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $3,220

• SAT range 960-1080

• 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

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  143 reviews

Senior: Attending Boricua College has proven to be a truly enriching experience. The smaller class sizes create an intimate and engaging learning environment, allowing for more personalized interactions with professors and fellow students. What I particularly appreciate is the college's colloquium strategy of learning, which fosters dynamic discussions and critical thinking. This approach closely mirrors real-world experiences, encouraging us to analyze, debate, and collaborate just as we would in professional settings. Through this unique educational approach, Boricua College has not only imparted knowledge but has also empowered me to apply my learning effectively in the real world.... Read 143 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,499

• SAT range —

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  2,848 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 2,848 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,942 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 1,942 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $37,583

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  316 reviews

Freshman: St. Joseph's University is a Catholic liberal arts university located in the heart of New York City. One of the things that makes St. Joseph's University unique is its commitment to providing a values-based education that encourages students to engage with the world around them and work towards creating positive change. St. Joseph's University also offers a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities for students, including undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts and sciences. In terms of changes, some people may have suggestions for improvements to the university, such as increasing the diversity of the student body and faculty, expanding support services for students, or investing in new facilities or resources. Ultimately, any changes made to the university would depend on the priorities and resources of the institution and the needs of its students, faculty, and community.... Read 316 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $16,290

• SAT range 1020-1200

• 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

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  486 reviews

Senior: I loved how flexible and understanding the teachers were and how they did their best to provide days off for religious holidays, and make the exams and assignments within reasonable expectations. Touro attracts driven and motivated students who really strive to excel in all their classes. Touro is affordable, and has accelerated programs made to cater to students seeking to join the workforce as soon as possible. The only thing I'd like to see change is the amount of prerequisite credits required to graduate.... Read 486 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $23,038

• SAT range —

• West Long Branch, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  973 reviews

Alum: Monmouth was a great experience for me! I did so much growing as a man, a partner, an athlete, a child of God and so so much more. At Monmouth, I made some of my greatest friends, people that I will be in contact with probably for the rest of my life. The struggles, laughs, cries, triumphs and defeats were all shared with them and for that I will be forever in debt and gratitude for Monmouth and the amazing people. I was able to come in contact with. As an athlete, I learned so much about my body and others' bodies which allowed me to really take my talents to a new level athletically and help contribute to my love for my major, Exercise Science. At Monmouth, I also had the opportunity to seek God without my parents and I am so blessed for the bonds I made this way and how closer to God I have through these groups and events.... Read 973 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $29,059

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Rockville Centre, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  670 reviews

Sophomore: As a transfer student, the transition has been smooth with the help of advisors. It was more cost effective to attend a university within my home state and still have my independence as it changed from a commuter school to now being able to dorm on campus. Great programs to choose from, smaller class sizes, which helps you to have more interaction with your professors so you’re known by name. Campus life can give you the opportunity to participate in different activities/clubs and having a well known theatre on campus exposes you to performances from your peers as well as nationally known artists. Overall, Molloy University is very supportive and passionate about their students success!... Read 670 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $25,540

• SAT range 1110-1320

• 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 3.53 out of 5  2,412 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 2,412 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $4,586

• SAT range 1170-1340

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,026 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 1,026 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Lakewood, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  350 reviews

Graduate Student: I attend GCU as a transfer student from Ocean County College. While I was nervous as it is a bigger campus and a 4-year university, I assimilated quickly as the student community was strong. There were many activities to be involved in, strong athletics teams, and students met for study groups often. I was an education and psychology major, and both programs were rigorous. Tutoring was available and professors were ready and willing to assist when needed. The library was equipped with resources and technology and the classroom technology was high-tech. I really enjoyed my years here and are sad they are behind me!... Read 350 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $20,448

• SAT range 980-1160

• Bridgeport, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  947 reviews

Sophomore: University of Bridgeport is an excellent school in terms of curriculum, faculty, and, of course, the radiant and huge campus. You have a wide array of majors to choose from, and the extra curricular opportunities are amazing! This school is also very much suitable for international students, considering I am an international student and I fit it in very nicely, just as other students from over 30 countries who were with me during the Fall '21 intake. However, the only concerning factor about UB is the quality of students; I have a feeling sometimes that University of Bridgeport has kind of a loose attitude about accepting students and therefore you are in there with all kinds of bright and otherwise inclined students. Overall, UB is an amazing school and anyone coming here would have an amazing 4 years.... Read 947 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $24,324

• SAT range 950-1130

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,440 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 1,440 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $3,793

• SAT range 1170-1360

• Morristown, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.37 out of 5  221 reviews

Junior: Being a small, private university, the professors here at Saint Elizabeth University are some of the sweetest, most genuine, and truly rewarding leaders and set up the students here for success. With the small population, the student-to-professor ratio is just perfect and there is usually never a moment where the professor doesn't engage each individual in the class. In addition to this, the professors genuinely want each student to succeed and find time to provide students with extra time for assistance regarding the course. The university is still growing in diversity but there are very friendly people everywhere!... Read 221 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $21,774

• SAT range 890-1100

• Dobbs Ferry, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,347 reviews

Freshman: Mercy College is a great school for students looking for affordable tuition, small classes, and a connected campus with faculty. Mercy offers many great programs where the staff is aimed to help you succeed, having multiple support systems available at all times. Mercy offers many resources that will help you throughout your four years in college, internships that pertain to your career, and campus life!... Read 1,347 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,027

• SAT range 910-1190

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  650 reviews

Freshman: My experience at The New School has been great overall. I've learned a lot from the professors, who genuinely care about their students and invest time in ensuring that everyone understands the material. However, I've faced a significant issue with financial aid. I wish the school would provide more assistance to students who are struggling to pay and proactively communicate any potential issues beforehand. Instead, students find out about the issue much later and have to run in circles trying to figure out things, inducing more stress.... Read 650 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $43,547

• SAT range 1150-1380