University at Albany
The Vibe Check
University at Albany has a distinct urban energy, feeling like a self-contained campus within the bustling state capital. There's a strong focus on practical learning and career preparation, especially in fields like public policy and business. Students often describe the atmosphere as driven and diverse, with a mix of commuter and residential life that keeps the campus dynamic.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1185
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 26
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UAlbany is particularly renowned for its programs in criminal justice, public affairs, and social sciences, leveraging its proximity to the state government. The university emphasizes hands-on research, offering undergraduates opportunities to work with faculty on projects ranging from forensic science to data analytics. Class sizes are often manageable, fostering direct interaction with professors who are experts in their fields.
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 Albany
Students take advantage of Albany's capital city status by interning at state agencies, non-profits, and tech companies downtown. For fun, they explore the lively Lark Street area for its cafes, boutiques, and murals, or head to the nearby Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail for biking and walking. Proximity to major cities like NYC and Boston also makes for easy weekend trips.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($67,979):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is generally considered safe with a visible security presence and well-lit pathways. The surrounding city of Albany has areas that can be sketchy, so it's wise for students to be aware of their surroundings and utilize campus safety resources like the escort service at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime location in the state capital offers unparalleled internship and networking opportunities in government and law.
- ✓ Strong, well-regarded programs in niche fields like criminal justice, cybersecurity, and public policy.
- ✓ Excellent value for in-state students with a solid mid-career earnings track record.
- ✓ Diverse student body with a wide range of academic and social clubs.
Cons
- ✗ The urban setting may not appeal to students seeking a traditional, secluded college town experience.
- ✗ Winter weather in Albany can be harsh and long, with significant snowfall.
- ✗ Graduation rate, while decent, is lower than some flagship state universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
University at Albany (UAlbany) is widely known for its top-ranked programs in criminal justice, public affairs, and social sciences. It is also gaining a strong reputation in business, computer science, and its specialized College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity, leveraging its location as the capital of New York State.
University at Albany has an acceptance rate of approximately 70%, making it accessible but still competitive. While not as selective as some private institutions, successful applicants typically have a solid GPA and a well-rounded profile. The middle 50% of admitted students often have SAT scores between 1130-1320 and a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Campus life at UAlbany is a mix of residential and commuter students, creating a vibrant but not overwhelming atmosphere. Students are actively involved in over 200 clubs and organizations, and the Division I athletics program fosters a strong sense of school spirit. The campus is walkable and features a mix of classic and modern architecture, with a busy events calendar.
For New York residents, UAlbany offers a high-value education with a low tuition cost and a strong 10-year median earnings figure of $67,979, making it an excellent financial investment. For out-of-state students, the value is still strong due to the university's robust career services, prime location for internships, and well-regarded academic programs that lead to solid job placement.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 13,919
- In-State Tuition $10,408
- Out-of-State $28,998
- Zip Code 12222
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the tuition is exceptionally affordable, making the return on investment very strong, especially with a median salary of nearly $68,000 after ten years. Out-of-state students face a higher cost, but the robust alumni network and prime location in the state capital can lead to lucrative job opportunities that help offset expenses. With over 40% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university is committed to accessibility and providing value to a diverse economic range of families.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.