CUNY Graduate School and University Center

Nestled in the iconic B. Altman and Company Building in Midtown Manhattan, the CUNY Graduate School and University Center stands as the premier public research and doctorate-granting institution within the expansive City University of New York system. Since its formal establishment, it has been a beacon for advanced scholarship, classified as an 'R1: Doctoral University – Very High Spending and Doctorate Production' institution. It's a vibrant hub offering a comprehensive array of 32 doctoral and 18 master's programs, fostering an environment of deep intellectual inquiry in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

With roots dating back to 1961 as the Division of Graduate Studies, the institution evolved into the Graduate School and University Center in 1969, charting a course for robust academic excellence. Throughout its history, visionary leadership has spurred significant growth, particularly in student support and research opportunities. From awarding its first PhDs in 1965 to cultivating a thriving academic community, the Graduate Center has consistently championed the belief that 'Knowledge Is a Public Good,' a motto that reflects its commitment to accessible, high-quality postgraduate education.

Academically, the Graduate Center is distinguished by a collaborative faculty network, comprising a core of approximately 130 professors alongside over 1,700 faculty members from other CUNY colleges. This rich intellectual tapestry supports over 30 research centers and institutes, driving cutting-edge discovery. Students benefit from access to the extensive CUNY library network, including the Mina Rees Library, and enhanced borrowing privileges at the New York Public Library's research collections. With a competitive 13.5% average acceptance rate for doctoral programs and a robust support system, including substantial fellowships, students are immersed in an enriching academic journey. The caliber of its faculty, including Nobel, Pulitzer, and National Medal recipients, underscores the institution's commitment to scholarly distinction and impactful research, all within a campus that also houses public art spaces like the James Gallery and CUNY TV studios.