Key Facts
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About
Queens College, officially Queens College of the City University of New York (CUNY), is a public liberal arts and sciences college located in Flushing, Queens, New York City. Established in 1937 as part of the CUNY system, it was created to provide accessible higher education to the growing population of New York City, particularly serving the diverse communities of Queens. The college has grown into one of the largest and most respected institutions in the CUNY network, enrolling over 19,000 students annually. It is renowned for its commitment to affordability, with in-state tuition significantly lower than many private universities, allowing students to obtain a quality education without excessive financial burden. Queens College emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation, preparing students for careers in various fields while fostering civic engagement and community involvement.
Academically, Queens College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across seven divisions, including the Aaron Copland School of Music, which is highly regarded for its performing arts programs, and the Macaulay Honors College, a selective honors program within CUNY that provides enhanced opportunities for top students. The college is particularly noted for its strengths in social sciences, sciences, education, and the humanities, with notable alumni including Nobel laureates, politicians, and business leaders. Its diverse faculty and student body reflect the multicultural fabric of Queens, one of the most ethnically diverse counties in the United States, promoting an inclusive learning environment that values global perspectives.
Queens College plays a vital role in the local community through initiatives in research, public service, and cultural events. The campus features modern facilities, including the Kupferberg Center for the Arts and extensive athletic programs as part of NCAA Division II. Students often highlight the college's supportive atmosphere, where professors are accessible and resources are geared toward student success. As a key pillar of public higher education in New York, Queens College continues to uphold its mission of providing rigorous academics to a broad demographic, earning accolades such as being considered the 'Harvard of CUNY' by some students for its academic rigor and value.