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State University of New York at New Paltz Logo

State University of New York at New Paltz

Address: State University of New York at New Paltz, 1 Hawk Drive, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA

Phone: +1 845-257-3000

Email: admissions@newpaltz.edu

Website: www.newpaltz.edu


About State University of New York at New Paltz

Established in 1828, the State University of New York at New Paltz is a non-profit public higher  education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium town of New Paltz (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), New York. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher  Education, State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) is a medium-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 7,000-7,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 196-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 40-49% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. SUNY New Paltz 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 State University of New York at New Paltz

The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) is famous for several reasons, which contribute to its reputation both regionally and nationally:

1. Strong Arts and Humanities Programs

SUNY New Paltz is particularly well-regarded for its art, music, and theatre programs, which attract students from across the country. The university’s art department is known for its high-quality training in graphic design, ceramics, and sculpture, and its Theatre Arts program is respected for its focus on both performance and production. Additionally, its music program—especially its focus on classical, jazz, and world music—is a significant draw for students interested in the performing arts.

2. Historical Significance

Founded in 1828 as a teacher-training institution, SUNY New Paltz has a long history of providing high-quality education. Its roots in teacher education remain strong, and the university is known for producing well-prepared educators at the elementary and secondary levels. Over the years, it has grown into a comprehensive institution offering diverse programs across multiple fields.

3. Location and Campus

SUNY New Paltz is located in the scenic Hudson Valley region of New York, which is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and proximity to major cultural hubs like New York City. This location provides students with access to a wealth of opportunities for internships, networking, and employment in fields such as arts, media, education, and environmental science.

4. Commitment to Sustainability and Environmental Studies

The university is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Its Environmental Science program and green campus initiatives have earned praise for preparing students to address pressing environmental challenges. The university’s emphasis on sustainable practices and eco-friendly buildings has contributed to its reputation as a leader in environmental education.

5. Diverse and Inclusive Community

SUNY New Paltz is known for its diverse and inclusive community, with students from all over the United States and the world. The university actively fosters a welcoming environment for students of various backgrounds, and its commitment to social justice and equity has made it a popular choice for students seeking a supportive and engaging academic experience.

6. Focus on Undergraduate Research and Hands-On Learning

The university has a strong focus on undergraduate research and hands-on learning. This is particularly notable in its science and engineering programs, where students engage in practical research and lab work. The university offers numerous opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, whether through internships, community service projects, or collaborative research with faculty.

7. Quality Faculty and Notable Alumni

SUNY New Paltz has faculty members who are highly regarded in their fields, contributing to the university’s academic reputation. The university has produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers in the arts, business, education, and other sectors. Alumni have made significant contributions to their professions, which in turn reflects positively on the university’s reputation.

8. National Recognition and Accreditations

SUNY New Paltz is consistently ranked as one of the best public liberal arts colleges in the United States, earning accolades for its academic quality, faculty, and student outcomes. The university holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and several specialized accrediting bodies, further solidifying its status as a reputable institution.

9. Collaboration with New York City

Due to its proximity to New York City, SUNY New Paltz has strong ties to the cultural, artistic, and professional sectors in the city. Many students from the university take advantage of internships, projects, and networking opportunities in the city, making it an attractive option for students pursuing careers in media, arts, business, and technology.

New Paltz - Student Financial Services - Cost of Attendance

(Current costs as of July 2024 and are subject to change)

Budget Components Undergraduate New York Resident On/Off Campus Graduate Non-Resident
Tuition $7,070 $23,100
Fees $1,502 $1,502
Personal Expenses $2,200 $2,200
Housing $11,094 $11,094

The language requirements for admission to the State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) vary depending on whether the applicant is a native English speaker or an international student. Here's an overview of the language requirements:

For International Students:

International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following criteria:

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

    • Minimum Scores:
      • iBT (Internet-based): 80
      • Paper-based: 550
    • SUNY New Paltz may also accept TOEFL ITP or TOEFL Essentials depending on the situation, but the iBT is the preferred version.

  2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

    • Minimum Score: 6.5 (overall band score)

  3. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):

    • Minimum Score: 53

  4. Duolingo English Test:

    • Minimum Score: 105 (accepted temporarily in place of TOEFL/IELTS)

  5. Cambridge English:

    • Minimum Score: 176 (Cambridge English Advanced or Proficiency)

  6. Completion of a Recognized English Language Program:

    • If a student has completed an intensive English language program at an accredited institution or holds a degree from an English-speaking institution, this may fulfill the English proficiency requirement.

  7. SAT/ACT (for students who took these exams):

    • SAT: A score of 480 or higher in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section.
    • ACT: A score of 18 or higher in the English section may also fulfill the language requirement.

For Native English Speakers:

  • Students from English-speaking countries (such as the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and New Zealand) are not required to submit English proficiency test scores.
  • Students who completed secondary education in an English-speaking institution may also be exempt from this requirement.

Additional Notes:

  • Conditional Admission: If international students do not meet the English language proficiency requirements, they may be offered conditional admission. This typically means they will be required to complete an intensive English language program before beginning their full-time degree studies at SUNY New Paltz.

  • Waivers: In some cases, students may be eligible for a waiver of the English proficiency requirement if they have previously studied at an English-speaking institution or have other evidence of language proficiency.

The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, with several areas of specialization that the university is particularly known for. Here are some of the key course specialties and areas of academic strength:

1. Art and Art History

  • BFA in Graphic Design: SUNY New Paltz has a well-regarded graphic design program that combines creativity with technical skills in digital media, typography, and visual communication.
  • BFA in Ceramics and Sculpture: The art department also has strong programs in ceramics and sculpture, known for fostering creative expression through both traditional and contemporary methods.
  • Art Education: The university offers programs in art education that prepare students to teach art in K-12 settings, emphasizing both artistic and pedagogical development.

2. Music and Performing Arts

  • Music Performance and Education: The Department of Music at SUNY New Paltz offers programs in performance, composition, and music education. It is recognized for its focus on both classical and contemporary music, including jazz and world music.
  • Theatre Arts: SUNY New Paltz offers specialized courses in acting, stage design, and directing, with a strong emphasis on performance and production. The theatre program has an excellent reputation in the performing arts community.

3. Business and Economics

  • Business Administration: The School of Business offers a highly regarded BBA in Business Administration with specializations in areas like marketing, management, and finance.
  • Economics: The economics department is also well-known, offering courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics, preparing students for careers in government, private industry, and academia.

4. Education

  • Elementary and Secondary Education: SUNY New Paltz offers strong programs in teacher education for both elementary and secondary school levels. This includes programs in special education, mathematics, science, and literacy.
  • Educational Leadership: For graduate students, SUNY New Paltz offers a Master’s in Educational Leadership, which prepares educators for leadership roles in schools and educational institutions.

5. Science and Engineering

  • Environmental Science: SUNY New Paltz has a Bachelor's in Environmental Science that focuses on sustainability, conservation, and the environmental challenges of the modern world.
  • Biology: The Department of Biology offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in biological sciences, with specializations in areas like ecology, evolution, and microbiology.
  • Computer Science: The university offers a Bachelor's and Master's in Computer Science, where students specialize in software development, data science, and computer programming.

6. Humanities and Social Sciences

  • Psychology: SUNY New Paltz has a highly regarded Psychology Department offering undergraduate and graduate courses, with particular strengths in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and research methodology.
  • Sociology and Anthropology: The Sociology and Anthropology Department offers courses that emphasize social theory, human behavior, and cultural studies.
  • Political Science: The university’s Political Science Department provides a range of courses focused on government, political theory, and international relations.

7. Health and Nursing

  • Nursing: SUNY New Paltz offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that prepares students for careers as registered nurses (RNs). It’s a well-regarded program, combining clinical practice with classroom instruction.
  • Public Health: The Public Health Department offers programs focusing on global health, health education, and policy, aimed at preparing students for work in healthcare systems and advocacy.

8. Communication and Media

  • Journalism: The Journalism Department at SUNY New Paltz offers programs that cover all aspects of modern journalism, including writing, digital media, and broadcasting.
  • Communication Studies: This program offers courses that focus on the development of communication skills, public relations, and media studies, preparing students for careers in corporate communications, media, and marketing.

9. International Relations and Global Studies

  • SUNY New Paltz offers a Bachelor’s in International Relations, with a focus on global issues, diplomacy, international law, and political science, preparing students for careers in international affairs, foreign service, and global NGOs.

10. Interdisciplinary Studies

  • SUNY New Paltz also offers programs in interdisciplinary studies for students who wish to design their own course of study, combining elements from multiple academic disciplines.

The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) has many dedicated and accomplished faculty members across various disciplines. While it may not have globally recognized Nobel Prize-winning professors, the university is home to highly regarded educators and scholars known for their contributions to research, teaching, and their respective fields. Here are some of the top faculty members:

1. Dr. Joseph P. McGinty (Department of Biology)

  • Expertise: Dr. McGinty specializes in molecular biology, particularly the regulation of genes in eukaryotic cells. His research focuses on gene expression and the molecular mechanisms controlling cell development.
  • Notable Contributions: His work has contributed to the understanding of how genes are switched on and off in cells, which is crucial for the study of diseases like cancer.

2. Dr. Emily M. Miller (Department of Psychology)

  • Expertise: Dr. Miller’s work focuses on psychology, particularly in the areas of developmental psychology and adolescent mental health.
  • Notable Contributions: She is known for her research on youth mental health, especially in regard to anxiety and depression among adolescents, and is a prominent figure in promoting mental health awareness.

3. Dr. James H. Dunlap (Department of Sociology)

  • Expertise: Dr. Dunlap is a professor in the Sociology Department, where his focus is on issues such as globalization, economic inequality, and political economy.
  • Notable Contributions: His work examines the intersection of global political economy and its impact on local communities, with a particular focus on social justice and sustainable development.

4. Dr. Patricia O’Conner (Department of English)

  • Expertise: Dr. O’Conner is a well-regarded professor specializing in literary studies, particularly in the areas of American literature and gender studies.
  • Notable Contributions: She is known for her work on women’s literature and feminist theory, and she contributes to the university’s efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in academic discourse.

5. Dr. Michael B. Rethorn (Department of History)

  • Expertise: Dr. Rethorn specializes in European history, particularly in the history of early modern Europe and German history. His research focuses on the Reformation and early modern political thought.
  • Notable Contributions: He has published works on the cultural and political transformations of Europe during the early modern period, particularly related to religious reform movements.

6. Dr. Cathy Kessel (Department of Art History)

  • Expertise: Dr. Kessel is known for her work in art history, particularly focusing on American art and visual culture.
  • Notable Contributions: Her expertise in modern and contemporary American art has shaped the curriculum and research in the university’s arts programs.

The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) has not produced any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni, as of the most recent information available.

While the university is well-respected for its strong academic programs, particularly in the arts, humanities, and sciences, it does not have a prominent history of producing Nobel-winning individuals like some larger research-focused universities. However, this does not diminish its academic reputation or the achievements of its students and faculty, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in various fields.

Nobel Prizes are often associated with institutions that focus heavily on research and have large, world-renowned faculties, which is not the primary focus of SUNY New Paltz. However, the university's commitment to quality education, research, and sustainability provides a strong foundation for students pursuing a variety of career paths.