Union College
The Vibe Check
Union College feels like a close-knit, collaborative community where students are driven yet supportive of one another. The historic campus, with its signature Nott Memorial, buzzes with intellectual curiosity and a strong sense of tradition. It's a place where you're encouraged to explore diverse interests, from engineering to the humanities, within a vibrant, urban-connected setting.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Union is renowned for its rigorous engineering and science programs, complemented by strong offerings in the social sciences and humanities. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research, with faculty who are dedicated mentors. Students benefit from unique opportunities like the interdisciplinary 'DBE' (Design, Innovation, and Society) program and guaranteed research funding through programs like URP.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Schenectady
Students enjoy a mix of campus events and exploring Schenectady's growing downtown, which features cafes, breweries, and the historic Proctors Theatre for concerts and shows. The city's location on the Mohawk River offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, while the proximity to Albany provides access to larger city events and internships. On campus, students are active in over 100 clubs and Division III athletics, fostering a lively social scene.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($88,604):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a safe, residential neighborhood of Schenectady and is well-lit with 24/7 campus security patrols. While the surrounding city has typical urban considerations, the college's location provides a secure environment with easy access to city amenities.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong hands-on learning and undergraduate research opportunities, especially in engineering and sciences.
- ✓ Close-knit, collaborative campus community with a supportive faculty.
- ✓ Excellent career outcomes with high median earnings for graduates.
- ✓ Unique interdisciplinary programs and a distinctive, historic campus.
- ✓ Guaranteed research funding for students through programs like URP.
Cons
- ✗ High sticker price for tuition and fees.
- ✗ Location in Schenectady may not appeal to students seeking a large city or purely rural environment.
- ✗ Selective admissions process can be competitive.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Union College is particularly known for its strong engineering and science programs, including a unique interdisciplinary approach in programs like Design, Innovation, and Society. It is also recognized for its historic campus featuring the iconic Nott Memorial and its emphasis on undergraduate research and hands-on learning.
Yes, Union College is selective with an acceptance rate of 43.79%. Applicants typically have strong academic records, with an average SAT score of 1410. Successful applicants often demonstrate a balance of academic rigor, leadership, and a genuine interest in the college's collaborative community.
Campus life at Union is vibrant and close-knit, with over 100 student clubs and organizations, a strong Greek life presence, and active Division III athletics. Students enjoy a supportive community where faculty are accessible mentors, and the urban setting of Schenectady provides off-campus entertainment and internship opportunities.
Union College can be worth the cost for students who leverage its strong academic programs and career services. With an average net price of $36,000 and 10-year median earnings of $88,604, the ROI is favorable, especially for graduates in high-paying fields like engineering and computer science. However, students should maximize financial aid and scholarships to minimize debt.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1795
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,140
- In-State Tuition $66,456
- Zip Code 12308
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a total cost of attendance around $66,000, Union College requires a significant investment, but the average net price of $36,000 indicates substantial financial aid packages for many students. The 10-year median earnings of $88,604 for graduates suggest a strong return on investment, particularly for those in high-demand fields like engineering and computer science. Prospective students should carefully evaluate financial aid offers to determine the true net cost relative to their career goals.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.