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Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Suos Cultores Scientia Coronat("Knowledge crowns those who seek her")

Wikipedia
1870
Founded
Private research university
Type
15,245
Total Students
$63K
Tuition (In-State)
$63K
Tuition (Out-State)
$41K
Avg Net Price
42%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Graduation Rate
6-year
91%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University: Where Knowledge Crowns Those Who Seek Her on the Vibrant Hill.

Syracuse University, affectionately known as 'Cuse, is a dynamic private research institution nestled in the scenic University Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, New York. Since its establishment in 1870, it has grown into an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," celebrated for its eclectic architecture and a campus buzzing with innovation and spirit. With a motto that declares "Knowledge crowns those who seek her," Syracuse provides a robust academic environment designed to challenge and inspire its diverse student body.

The university's roots trace back to the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, evolving into Genesee College before the vision for a more central, prominent institution took hold in Syracuse. From its very inception, Syracuse University broke ground by being founded as coeducational and racially integrated, championing equal admission for all, regardless of gender or race. This pioneering spirit, coupled with a generous land donation from Judge George F. Comstock, laid the foundation for the sprawling 969-acre campus that stands today, fostering a community dedicated to refinement and intellectual pursuit.

Today, Syracuse University is organized into 13 distinct schools and colleges, offering a vast array of academic programs. Beyond the classroom, students embrace a vibrant campus life, fiercely supporting the "Orange" athletic teams as they compete in NCAA Division I within the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The university boasts a proud network of accomplished alumni, including a former U.S. President, numerous Olympic medalists, and award-winning figures in arts and leadership, underscoring its enduring impact on society.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1870 as a private research university with a rich history of inclusivity.
  • Holds the prestigious "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" classification.
  • Supports a thriving student body of 22,589 (2024), including 15,957 undergraduates.
  • Features an expansive 969-acre campus on Syracuse's iconic University Hill.
  • The "Orange" athletic teams are fierce competitors in NCAA Division I as a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
  • Boasts a significant endowment of $2.266 billion (2025), fueling its extensive academic and research endeavors.
  • Counts among its esteemed alumni former U.S. President Joe Biden, thirty-six Olympic Medalists, and numerous Academy, Emmy, and Grammy Award winners.

Timeline

1831
The institution's precursor, Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, was founded.
1870
Syracuse University was officially established and granted its own charter on March 24.
1871
The university opened its doors to students in rented downtown space.
1920
Syracuse University became a nonsectarian institution, moving beyond its historical Methodist affiliation.
2018
Theta Tau fraternity was expelled following a video depicting racist and bigoted behavior.
2019
Student-led #NotAgainSU movement began in response to a series of racist and antisemitic incidents on campus.
2025
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion was closed and replaced by an "Office of People and Culture" in July.
2025
Chancellor Kent Syverud announced in August his decision to step down in June 2026.
🏛️
156 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Syracuse University

🏥

College of Medicine

One of the early colleges, noted for its diverse student body in the 19th century.

⚖️

College of Law

One of the early colleges, noted for its diverse student body in the 19th century.

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