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Ithaca College

Address: Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
Phone: +1 607-274-3011
Email: admissions@ithaca.edu
Website: www.ithaca.edu


About Ithaca College

Established in 1892, the Ithaca College is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Ithaca (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), New York. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Ithaca College (IC) is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 5,000-5,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. Ithaca College (IC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 132-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. IC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Why Ithaca College

Ithaca College is well-known for several reasons, primarily its strong academic programs, its reputation in the arts and communications, and its commitment to hands-on learning. Some key reasons why Ithaca College is famous include:

1. Strong Reputation in Communications and Media

  • Roy H. Park School of Communication is one of the standout features of Ithaca College. It is recognized nationally for its high-quality programs in journalism, film production, media studies, and public relations. The school has a long history of success in producing graduates who go on to prominent careers in the media and entertainment industries.
  • The college’s television station (ICTV), which is student-run, has won numerous awards and is a significant part of its reputation in media production.

2. Top Music Programs

  • The School of Music is another highlight of Ithaca College. It is renowned for its exceptional programs in music performance, music education, music therapy, and sound recording technology. Ithaca’s music school is recognized as one of the best in the United States, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
  • The college’s Jazz Studies and Music Therapy programs are particularly notable, as well as the opportunities for students to perform in various ensembles.

3. Strong Arts and Theatre Programs

  • Ithaca College is known for its strong Theatre Arts program, which is considered one of the best in the country. The college offers specialized training in acting, directing, theatre production, and stage management. Graduates from the theatre program often go on to perform on Broadway, in national tours, and in major TV and film productions.
  • The college’s Arts and Dance programs also have a strong reputation, attracting students with a passion for creative expression.

4. Commitment to Sustainability

  • Ithaca College has made sustainability a key part of its mission. The college’s Environmental Studies programs and its focus on sustainability in research and community projects have made it well-regarded for preparing students to tackle global environmental challenges.
  • The campus itself is a leader in sustainability practices, with green building initiatives, eco-friendly transportation options, and a focus on renewable energy.

5. Innovative Health and Human Performance Programs

  • Ithaca College is recognized for its highly regarded programs in Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech-Language Pathology. These programs are known for their rigorous academics, hands-on clinical training, and strong faculty expertise.
  • The Health Sciences and Human Performance department is also known for its research and practice in areas such as exercise science, athletic training, and health promotion.

6. Reputation for Student-Centered Education

  • Ithaca College is known for its small class sizes, which allow for a more personalized education experience. Professors work closely with students, fostering strong academic mentoring relationships.
  • The college has a well-regarded internship program, providing students with opportunities to gain real-world experience in their fields of study. This focus on internships and hands-on learning has contributed significantly to Ithaca College’s reputation as a practical, career-oriented institution.

7. Strong Alumni Network

  • Ithaca College has a vibrant and successful alumni network, particularly in the fields of media, arts, music, health sciences, and business. Many alumni have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers, which helps reinforce the college’s reputation and attract new students.

8. Location in Ithaca, New York

  • Ithaca is located in the Finger Lakes region, known for its natural beauty, vineyards, and outdoor recreation. The area’s scenic charm and its reputation for high quality of life have made it an attractive place for students, staff, and faculty to live and study.

9. Diversity of Academic Offerings

  • Ithaca College offers a wide range of programs, from the liberal arts and humanities to professional programs in business, education, and health sciences. The college is well-known for blending rigorous academic study with real-world applications, giving students opportunities to engage in hands-on learning, research, and internships across disciplines.

10. National and International Recognition

  • Ithaca College has consistently ranked well in national surveys, particularly for its strengths in arts and communication, business, and music. It is also known for its strong commitment to a liberal arts education that encourages broad intellectual exploration alongside professional training.

These factors have made Ithaca College one of the leading institutions in the U.S., particularly known for its exceptional programs in communications, media, music, arts, and health sciences. The combination of academic rigor, hands-on opportunities, and strong industry connections make Ithaca a renowned choice for students pursuing careers in these fields.

Ithaca College requires English proficiency for all non-native English-speaking applicants, especially for those applying to undergraduate or graduate programs. The specific language requirements may vary depending on the program, but the general requirements include:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Minimum score: 80 on the iBT (Internet-based Test)
  • Minimum score for graduate students: 80-100 depending on the program (some programs may require higher scores).

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Minimum score: 6.5 overall band score
  • Similar to TOEFL, specific graduate programs may have higher score requirements.

3. Duolingo English Test

  • Minimum score: 105 (acceptable as an alternative to TOEFL and IELTS in some cases).

4. Cambridge English Exams

  • Cambridge C1 Advanced: A score of 180 or above is required.

5. Completion of English-based Secondary Education

  • If an applicant has completed at least two years of high school or one year of college in an English-speaking institution or country, they may not be required to submit a language test score.

6. Other English Proficiency Tests

  • Other recognized tests of English language proficiency may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

7. English Proficiency for Graduate Programs

  • Specific graduate programs may have higher English proficiency requirements, and some may also conduct their own assessments of English proficiency during the admission process.

Additional Considerations:

  • Some students may be offered conditional admission if they meet academic requirements but do not meet the language proficiency requirements. These students may need to take English language courses or attend an intensive English language program before being fully admitted to their academic program.

It’s recommended to consult the specific program page or the admissions office of Ithaca College for more detailed and program-specific information.

Ithaca College offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, with several areas of academic specialization that are well-regarded. Below are some of the prominent course specialties at Ithaca College:

1. Communication and Media

  • School of Communication is one of the college's most renowned faculties, particularly in the fields of Media Studies, Journalism, Film Production, and Public Relations.
  • Film, Photography, and Visual Arts is another standout department, with opportunities for students to explore film production, photography, and visual storytelling in real-world contexts.
  • Ithaca College has strong Broadcasting programs, and the Roy H. Park School of Communication offers programs that focus on media production, digital media, and strategic communications.

2. Music

  • Ithaca College has a highly respected School of Music, known for programs in Music Performance, Music Education, Music Therapy, and Music Composition.
  • The Jazz Studies program, in particular, is well-regarded, offering students training in both performance and music theory.
  • The Sound Recording Technology program is also a standout, combining music production with technical and creative aspects of sound engineering.

3. Health Sciences and Human Performance

  • Ithaca College is known for its Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech-Language Pathology programs, which are some of the top-rated in the country.
  • The Department of Exercise Science and Athletic Training offers programs focused on athletic training, exercise science, and fitness management.
  • Health Promotion and Physical Education prepares students for roles in wellness programs, public health, and educational settings.

4. Business

  • The School of Business at Ithaca College provides strong programs in Management, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, and International Business.
  • Ithaca College’s Business Analytics and Data Science programs are also gaining recognition, offering students the opportunity to explore the growing field of data-driven decision-making.

5. Environmental Studies and Sciences

  • Ithaca College has an excellent program in Environmental Studies, combining science, policy, and sustainability. Students often engage in hands-on learning opportunities through the college’s Sustainable Farming and Food Systems programs, and the Finger Lakes region provides rich opportunities for field-based learning in environmental science.

6. Theatre Arts

  • The Department of Theatre Arts at Ithaca College is known for producing top talent in the theater industry. Students can specialize in Acting, Directing, Stage Management, and Theatre Production.
  • Ithaca College’s strong connections to professional theater productions offer students real-world opportunities in the arts.

7. Humanities and Social Sciences

  • The School of Humanities and Sciences offers specialized courses in Psychology, Sociology, History, Philosophy, Political Science, and Anthropology.
  • The Writing programs, including Creative Writing and Journalism, are also strong, and Ithaca College is known for its supportive and rigorous writing environment.

8. Education

  • The School of Education offers specialized training in Teacher Education, Special Education, and Educational Leadership. It is known for integrating theory with practical teaching experiences in K-12 classrooms.
  • Ithaca’s Inclusive Early Childhood Education program focuses on equipping educators to work with young children, including those with special needs.

9. International Studies

  • The International Studies program at Ithaca College provides interdisciplinary courses in global politics, economics, culture, and international relations. Students can often participate in study-abroad programs and internships with international organizations.

10. Digital Media

  • Programs like Interactive Media and Game Design are also offered, combining technical skills with creativity for careers in media production, game development, and digital content creation.

These fields represent a blend of both practical and theoretical approaches to education, and students are encouraged to engage in internships, research, and creative projects that will help them apply what they learn in real-world settings. If you are interested in a specific field of study at Ithaca College, it's always a good idea to check the department-specific pages for more detailed information about the curriculum, faculty, and research opportunities.

Ithaca College is home to many distinguished faculty members across its various departments. While the college does not publicize a specific list of "top professors," there are several faculty members who are highly regarded for their expertise, contributions to research, and involvement in their respective fields. Some notable faculty from Ithaca College include:

1. Dr. Glenn G. Korol - Professor of Psychology

  • Dr. Korol is well-known in the field of psychology, especially for his research on the neural and hormonal mechanisms that govern behavior. His work has been influential in the understanding of brain function and behavior.

2. Dr. Eileen S. H. P. McDonough - Associate Professor, Department of Education

  • Dr. McDonough has expertise in early childhood education and curriculum development. Her work focuses on inclusive education practices, advocating for diversity and equity in educational settings.

3. Professor Michael J. Shapiro - Associate Professor of Theatre Arts

  • Professor Shapiro is an acclaimed educator in Ithaca’s Theatre Arts department, particularly known for his contributions to acting, directing, and production in theatre arts.

4. Dr. Thomas W. O’Rourke - Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry

  • Dr. O’Rourke is a prominent faculty member in the natural sciences, specializing in biochemistry and molecular biology. He has received multiple teaching awards for his commitment to student development and research excellence.

5. Dr. Mark L. Ruhl - Professor of Music

  • Dr. Ruhl is a well-regarded professor in the School of Music at Ithaca College, known for his expertise in music theory and composition. He has also published research on music education and performance.

These professors, along with many others at Ithaca College, are celebrated for their academic rigor, their contribution to their fields, and their dedication to fostering student success. It's also worth noting that Ithaca College faculty members are often involved in award-winning projects, community outreach, and have received prestigious grants, scholarships, and recognition within their disciplines.

Ithaca College does not have any Nobel Prize winners directly affiliated with the institution, either as faculty or alumni. While the college is renowned in certain fields such as communications, media, music, and health sciences, it has not been associated with Nobel laureates to the extent that some other major universities are.

However, Ithaca College has made significant contributions to the fields of media, music, theatre, and communications, and many of its alumni have gone on to notable careers in these areas, particularly in the entertainment industry and public relations.