2024 Top Colleges for Trades and Personal Services in the New York City Area

• 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 3.68 out of 5  1,644 reviews

Sophomore: The Fashion Institute of technology is very welcoming and vibrant. The campus has a palpable creative energy. So far, my journey at FIT has been an incredibly transformative one. This institution has propelled me towards personal and professional growth. The professors at FIT are not only teaching you in classes but they bring in real-world knowledge into the class. They encourage you to think creatively and critically. Since I am an international student, I believe that the campus has a rich and diverse community of students. Interacting with the students from various cultures and backgrounds and helped me broaden my perspectives. FIT offers various opportunities to develop professionally. It has abundance of resources for students even though it’s a college covered in just one block. I believe that my experience over here is extraordinary and I cannot imagine what other opportunities the college has for me ahead!... Read 1,644 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $8,637

• SAT range —

• Throggs Neck, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  136 reviews

Alum: Campus life at SUNY Maritime can be challenging to adapt too at first but it certainly was extremely rewarding, and, in the end, you will pat yourself on the back. I continuously express gratitude for the College experience I had, and all the friends, professors, and mentors I met along the way. My corresponding graduates from this college are infused with integrity, honesty, and discipline. I would advise joining ROTC program or the Regiment of Cadets Program (not Civilian) here at Maritime. I can promise you that all your arduous work will pay off overall. Also, you should experience shipping out on the TS Empire State VII to other countries and learning all the skills you need for life after college (the real world). Sometimes, you are not sure where life will take you, however at this University you will be skilled both mentally and physically for the days ahead. I currently work at a remarkably large Investment Bank doing what I love and imagined out of college.... Read 136 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $19,779

• SAT range 1100-1260

• Flushing, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  293 reviews

Junior: Many students have praised Vaughn College for its strong aviation and engineering programs, knowledgeable and supportive faculty, and diverse student community. Some have noted that the campus facilities could use an update, but overall, it is a great environment for students to learn and grow in their chosen field. Additionally, there are many opportunities for students to participate in clubs and extracurricular activities.... Read 293 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $37,811

• SAT range —

• Farmingdale, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  649 reviews

Senior: I am a senior student at Farmingdale State College, and my major is Architectural Engineering Technology. I followed a good path after getting my Associate Degree at Suffolk County Community College, and now I am excited to receive my Bachelor Degree soon. FSC has been a great experience overall. I have improved myself for my future career in many ways. The education, class times, professor were all great. I would only change the social life status at school. There might me more common gathering places for students to make friends. Other than that, a very good school!... Read 649 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $6,007

• SAT range 1010-1190

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  812 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 812 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $12,054

• SAT range —

• Forest Hills, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  62 reviews

Junior: As a Plaza College student, my experience has been amazing. The staff is friendly and supportive, making the environment welcoming. The school is affordable compared to other private institutions, and the dental program offers scholarships. The nursing program, although accelerated, lacks scholarships. Plaza College accepts students from diverse academic backgrounds for nursing as long as they meet prerequisites. Jennifer Niebling and Risa Cohn have been invaluable mentors, while Lenor Nachef is a caring and kind pathophysiology professor. Plaza College is ideal for fast, efficient degree completion with a wealth of knowledge. Overall, Plaza College has exceeded my expectations, and I couldn't be happier with my decision to pursue my education here.... Read 62 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $16,512

• SAT range —

• Garden City, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,385 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 1,385 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $28,261

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,115 reviews

Freshman: After finishing my first year as a freshman, I'd say that St. John's University is a top level amazing school. The environment of campus is perfect, you have a wide open great lawn surrounded by buildings of all varieties. HUGE diversity, you get to meet people from all over the country! Even though St. John's is a catholic school, they have a church is for all religions. Residence Halls are set in a village like area, all having different names and surrounding locations like the Montigoris Dining Hall and Public Safety. Dorms in the residence halls have their own setup, whether it's a suite or traditional, double room or single room. Speaking of Public Safety, I feel safe being on campus. They have guards at each gate and are on the scene if something goes down. Food at the dining hall is amazing, they have a different varieties of food, such like Grill and Hibachi. Overall, I am very proud to pick such a school.... Read 3,115 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $26,655

• SAT range 1100-1310

• Union, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,569 reviews

Junior: All of the students and faculty are extremely kind and considerate. The professors give a stimulating amount of work and will accommodate to your needs so long as you tell them your situation. Something that I would change is the advertising of clubs and organizations on campus to make them more well known, my first year I wasn’t a part of any organizations because I didn’t know what the university offered. Now I am a member of a club and an officer of an organization and I love it! The head of student affairs is incredibly generous, and the others officers and I work well together. Something else I love is the use of student input in classroom and university in its entirety. Students can take surveys received in emails to evaluate their class, campus, and university. Also, many courses of all subjects have had open discussions about material where students options matter. More than this, my campus feels very inclusive and this makes me feel safe while learning in the classroom.... Read 1,569 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $18,078

• SAT range 920-1120

• Randolph, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  563 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, a truly fantastic community college! Many of the professors are highly accomplished and well-known in their fields. It is constantly rated as one of the best county colleges in the nation. It boasts multiple degree programs, as well as numerous certificates in a variety of subjects. Checksheets for all of the above can be found on their website or outside the Academic Advisement office. The fall and spring semesters mostly run on 15, 13, or 7 early/late week schedules, depending upon the particular course. CCM also offers a 4-week winter term, which is completely online, along with various summer terms (5 week early/late, 10-week, and 7-week). Many courses are available in multiple formats: in-person, remote, and online. Definitely take advantage of the free articles & databases service through the library when enrolled! CCM offers honors courses each semester and is working on expanding its program; there are also a few honors societies and other clubs one can join.... Read 563 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,315

• SAT range —

• Brookville, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,827 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 1,827 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $22,620

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Flushing, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.96 out of 5  89 reviews

Junior: Very helpful, the system, Administration, and the professor. I will like to finish my associate here.... Read 89 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $9,447

• SAT range —

• White Plains, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  98 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, this college is informative and there for you when you need it the most. I've began the process to applying for many colleges, seeking the best one for me. A college that makes me feel valued and wanted, a place where I feel at home and what I say is taken into consideration. A college that can understand where I'm coming from and have staff that can relate to me and inspire me to push forward all the while, still advising me when I'm putting too much on my plate. Helping me to see what's priority and what I can afford to sit on the backburner. Just letting me discover for myself with a extra push but not a force. The college of Westchester made me feel everything I was looking for and I'm proud to say this is where it started for me and I made it to the end! I am not a traditional student so I left one star out because there are things I do not get to experience.... Read 98 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $11,148

• SAT range —

• Hackensack, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  7 reviews

Freshman: Its a great college . The facility and staff are great and they well with you. The classes are amazing... Read 7 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $30,488

• SAT range —

• 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

• New York, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,784 reviews

Senior: As an international student (F1 Visa), I am very excited to be a student at BMCC because it has been a tremendous and wonderful experience for me to study for the first time at a university outside of my country, Colombia, making solid friendships. Currently enrolled in my third and final year of the Bilingual Early Childhood Education Program, I can say that I have enjoyed each of the courses and classes with excellent teachers who have designed quite exciting activities and projects, which have allowed me to improve and strengthen my academic skills. Likewise, the new knowledge acquired during my studies at BMCC has allowed me to enrich the previous knowledge I gained during my years of study at universities and my work experience in educational organizations and institutions, both public and private, in Colombia. I will always be eternally grateful to the excellent professors and all the administrative staff and academic advisors for their support and help during this time.... Read 1,784 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,361

• SAT range —

• 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

• Selden, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,122 reviews

Sophomore: Suffolk Community College is the ultimate gateway towards your field of study. As a conglomerate of buildings throughout Long Island, it’s like they have almost everything that someone would like to study. It is nice to have professors that are very passionate. I was just disappointed with the lack of classes that they had when compared to the amount they presented in DegreeWorks. I would’ve really loved to take a Caribbean Studies class like they listed but it was not available across all campuses. I also think a more diverse cast of professors would be great as well!... Read 1,122 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,707

• SAT range —

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.36 out of 5  1,007 reviews

Senior: I made an excellent choice in choosing NYCCT over Hunter! Very welcoming environment, great professors and a whole bunch of resources.... Read 1,007 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $5,457

• SAT range 843-1030

• Staten Island, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  1,091 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 1,091 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,818

• SAT range —

• 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

• Long Island City, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,095 reviews

Graduate Student: LaGuardia Community College has been an exceptional institution that has provided me with a well-rounded education and an enriching college experience. Its commitment to diversity, dedicated faculty, supportive student services, career-focused programs, and engaging extracurricular activities are commendable. While there are areas for improvement, such as infrastructure upgrades, enhanced communication channels, expanded scholarship opportunities, and strengthened transfer pathways, LaGuardia remains a remarkable place for personal and academic growth. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences it has offered me, and I would highly recommend LaGuardia Community College to anyone seeking a quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment.... Read 1,095 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,344

• SAT range —

• Garden City, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,105 reviews

Alum: I had a really good first semester at Nassau Community College but unfortunately, I didn't get to experience my full year at Nassau Community College as the pandemic had hit and everything was shifted to online. Most of my professors that I had were very accommodating and patient to the transition. My only complaint would be that the advisors can sometimes be rude and not in the slightest bit helpful. I have one advisor that help me with a specific issue and basically told me to go to her for any help that I needed but then turned her back on me after I came to her in regards to another issue that had to do with my financial aid. Overall, this is a great community college to get your feet wet into transferring into a senior college and I miss this school very much. I owe this school my success!... Read 1,105 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,730

• SAT range —

• Bayside, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  659 reviews

Sophomore: Overall I liked QCC. They have lots of free programs to help students in STEM. There are opportunities for undergraduate research, on campus jobs, and free tutoring. Some clubs are good like the robotics club, but some are also bad. We had play with 4 puppies, pizza, and a carnival like event during a club once. The social life is what you make of it. QCC really helps to create a community and the campus is beautiful. I enjoyed most of my time in college and can’t wait to graduate debt free! Some advice - take classes at QCC while in high school or use CLEP and AP exams. You can accelerate your degree and save money or time. Also, summer STEM classes have their tuition waived for one class. Whichever CUNY you choose to go to, remember that you can always “epermit” a class at another CUNY. I used an epermit for a class at Queens College. I like QCC’s smaller classes. You get more help and guidance from professors. Most are nice and lenient. Rate my professor will be a lifesaver.... Read 659 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,954

• SAT range —