Clarkson University
Potsdam, NY
Quick Facts
“A Workman That Needeth Not to be Ashamed”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Clarkson University
Clarkson: A high-research university offering pioneering STEM education and a unique early college experience.
Nestled in Potsdam, New York, Clarkson University stands as a distinguished private research institution, recognized among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity." With approximately 4,000 students, Clarkson cultivates an environment where cutting-edge inquiry meets hands-on learning, empowering future leaders and innovators across a diverse range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.
The university's rich history began in 1896, founded as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology in honor of a local entrepreneur whose heroic self-sacrifice saved a worker's life. Evolving from "Clarkson College of Technology" (affectionately known as "Tech" by its enduring fans) to Clarkson University in 1984, the institution has continuously expanded its main "Hill" campus while maintaining a presence in the New York Capital District. This legacy of courage and innovation remains central to Clarkson's identity.
Academically, Clarkson is renowned for its robust STEM focus, anchored by the Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the David D. Reh School of Business, and the Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences. Complementing these are specialized Institutes for a Sustainable Environment and STEM Education. A recent strategic reorganization further solidifies its commitment to applied sciences, ensuring that students are at the forefront of their fields.
Beyond academics, Clarkson fosters a vibrant student experience. Its athletic teams, the Golden Knights, compete fiercely, with the men's and women's ice hockey programs making national headlines as NCAA Division I powerhouses—the women's team proudly boasts three national championships. Adding to its distinctiveness is The Clarkson School, an innovative early entrance program that allows motivated high school students, affectionately known as "Schoolies," to begin their college journey early, immersing themselves fully in the university's dynamic living and learning community.
Key Highlights
- ✦Classified as "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," signifying its significant contributions to research.
- ✦Serves approximately 4,000 students across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs.
- ✦Benefits from a robust $214 million endowment as of 2024, supporting institutional growth and student success.
- ✦The NCAA Division I Women's Ice Hockey team has secured three national championships (2014, 2017, 2018).
- ✦Offers The Clarkson School, a unique early college entrance program for academically advanced high school students.
- ✦Founded in 1896, its history is rooted in a legacy of heroism and community dedication.
- ✦Features a comprehensive suite of STEM-focused schools and institutes, including the Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Clarkson University
David D. Reh School of Business
Offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in various business disciplines.
Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
A central pillar of Clarkson's academic profile, focusing on comprehensive engineering and applied science programs.
Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences
Provides degree programs in health and life sciences, contributing to advancements in these vital fields.
Institute for a Sustainable Environment
An interdisciplinary institute dedicated to research and education focused on environmental sustainability.
Institute for STEM Education
Promotes and enhances excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education across the university.
The Clarkson School
A special division offering an early entrance opportunity for high school students to begin their college education on campus.
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