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State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

1828
Founded
Public university
Type
6,022
Total Students
6,113
Undergrad
1,034
Graduate
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$18K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
59%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
6-year
87%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Darrell P. Wheeler

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

About State University of New York at New Paltz

A historic SUNY institution evolving with a legacy of arts, sciences, and free expression.

State University of New York at New Paltz is more than just a college; it's a dynamic public university with roots tracing back to 1828, growing from a classical school to a comprehensive institution within the prestigious SUNY system. Initially founded to train teachers, New Paltz has consistently adapted, expanding its offerings to include baccalaureate and graduate degrees in education, a wide array of liberal arts programs, and specialized fields like art education and African American studies. This evolution highlights a commitment to diverse academic pursuits and preparing students for a changing world.

Today, SUNY New Paltz offers a vibrant academic environment for its 7,147 students, fostering an engaging blend of traditional scholarship and innovative approaches. From its early experimental studies programs, which explored avant-garde disciplines like video art and ecodesign, to its current business program housed in historic Van den Berg Hall, the university encourages students to push boundaries. Its history is marked by a dedication to academic freedom and open dialogue, shaping a campus culture where diverse ideas are explored and debated.

Prospective students will find a university deeply integrated with the State University of New York system since its founding in 1948, now officially reclassified as a university as of 2023. Beyond the classroom, opportunities abound in programs like The Legislative Gazette, offering hands-on experience in state politics. SUNY New Paltz is a place where history and innovation meet, providing a rich educational journey in a community that values both its past and its potential to shape the future.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1828 as the New Paltz Classical School, boasting a nearly two-century legacy of education.
  • A founding member of the State University of New York system in 1948, recently reclassified as a university in 2023.
  • Serves a vibrant student body of 7,147, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Pioneered innovative academic programs, including early African American studies (1968) and experimental arts.
  • Features a robust business program and a distinguished School of Fine and Performing Arts.
  • Committed to academic freedom, exemplified by its defense of controversial campus events.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to inclusive education, evidenced by mandatory antisemitism training for student organizations (as of December 2024).

Timeline

1828
New Paltz Classical School opens, marking the university's origins.
1885
New Paltz Normal and Training School is established to prepare teachers.
1938
Renamed State Teachers College at New Paltz, authorized to award baccalaureate degrees.
1948
Becomes one of the 30 founding colleges associated with the State University of New York (SUNY).
1961
Renamed State University of New York College of Arts and Science at New Paltz, reflecting broader academic scope.
1968
African American studies program is established.
1978
The Legislative Gazette, a journalism and political science internship, is established.
1994
Rebranded as the State University of New York at New Paltz.
1997
Campus hosts controversial feminist conferences on sex and sexuality, sparking nationwide media attention.
2023
Officially reclassified as a university by the State University of New York.
🏛️
198 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within State University of New York at New Paltz

🎭

School of Fine and Performing Arts

Hosted seminars and exhibitions by influential artists, fostering creative expression and dialogue.

Leadership

Darrell P. Wheeler
President
William McClure
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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