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Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

A Workman That Needeth Not to be Ashamed

1896
Founded
Private research university
Type
2,449
Total Students
$214M
Endowment
(2024)
$58K
Tuition (In-State)
$58K
Tuition (Out-State)
$32K
Avg Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
85%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Michelle Larson

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Clarkson University

Clarkson University: Pioneering research, real-world impact, and a legacy of innovation.

Clarkson University, a private research institution nestled in Potsdam, New York, stands as a beacon for students eager to dive deep into fields of engineering, business, health, and sustainable environments. Classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," Clarkson is renowned for its commitment to hands-on learning, groundbreaking research, and preparing graduates to make a tangible difference in the world. With approximately 4,000 students pursuing a range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, the university fosters an engaging academic environment across its distinct schools and institutes.

The university's rich history dates back to 1896, founded as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology. It was established by the sisters of Thomas S. Clarkson, an entrepreneur whose heroic act of saving a worker cost him his life. This legacy of selflessness and dedication to advancement has shaped Clarkson's ethos, evolving from a technology school to a comprehensive university in 1984. Over the years, the campus expanded from its downtown roots to the expansive "Hill" campus, now officially "The Collins Hill Campus," reflecting its growth and dedication to modern academic facilities.

Academically, Clarkson excels through its Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, David D. Reh School of Business, and the Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences. Furthermore, specialized institutes like the Institute for a Sustainable Environment and the Institute for STEM Education underscore its forward-thinking approach. While the university recently made strategic adjustments to its humanities and social sciences departments to enhance its core mission, it maintains a robust focus on interdisciplinary innovation and practical application.

Life at Clarkson is vibrant, extending beyond academics. Students proudly cheer on the Golden Knights, with the university's NCAA Division I women's ice hockey team boasting three national championships. For exceptionally motivated high school students, The Clarkson School offers a unique early entrance program, allowing "Schoolies" to jumpstart their college journey within a supportive university community. From pioneering research to national athletic glory, Clarkson University provides an environment where students are empowered to achieve their full potential and become "a workman that needeth not to be ashamed."

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity," signifying a strong commitment to cutting-edge research.
  • Founded in 1896, carrying a rich legacy of over a century of innovation and technological advancement.
  • Home to approximately 4,000 students pursuing diverse bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
  • The Golden Knights women's ice hockey team boasts an impressive three NCAA Division I National Championships (2014, 2017, 2018).
  • Features The Clarkson School, a unique early entrance program allowing motivated high school students to begin college early.
  • Operates with a substantial endowment of $0.2 billion, supporting its educational mission and research initiatives.
  • Led by Michelle Larson, the university's 19th president and first female president, as of 2025.

Timeline

1896
Founded as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology.
1913
Renamed Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial College of Technology.
1978
The Clarkson School, an early entrance program, is founded.
1984
Officially designated Clarkson University.
2016
Union Graduate College merges with Clarkson, establishing the Capital Region Campus.
2023
Board of trustees approves a reorganization plan for humanities and social sciences departments.
2024
Capital Region Campus facility in Schenectady closes; personnel move to Latham, NY.
2025
Michelle Larson assumes presidency as the university's 19th and first female president.
🏛️
130 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within Clarkson University

🏫

The Clarkson School

A special division offering an early entrance opportunity for high school students to begin college early.

💼

David D. Reh School of Business

One of the primary schools offering business education, fostering future leaders and entrepreneurs.

⚙️

Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

A core school focused on engineering and applied sciences, housing the majority of STEM programs and research.

🔬

Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences

Focused on health and life sciences education, preparing students for careers in critical health fields.

🏫

Institute for a Sustainable Environment

An institute dedicated to environmental research and education for sustainability, addressing global challenges.

📚

Institute for STEM Education

An institute focused on advancing education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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