New York University

New York University, or NYU, is one of the largest private institutions in the country with nearly 27,000 undergraduates. Founded in 1831, its main campus is located in Greenwich Village in Manhattan. The school is definitely in an urban setting, because there are no borders separating the school from the rest of the city. Students looking for a traditional school campus would be disappointed by New York University’s layout among the city streets.

The university offers a wide range of study options for its undergraduate students. There are more than 230 areas of study. Undergraduates can also choose double majors, minors, and dual degrees. One of the most popular programs is the College of Arts and Sciences, especially the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. (It offers degrees in acting, dance, dramatic writing, film, and television.)

The College of Arts and Sciences also includes the popular Liberal Studies program. Undergraduate degrees are also offered at the College of Dentistry, College of Nursing, Courant Institute of Mathematical Studies, Gallatin School of Individualized Study, Leonard N. Stern School of Business, Polytechnic Institute of NYU, Silver School of Social Work, and the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The most popular majors include visual and performing arts, social sciences, business/marketing and liberal arts/general studies.

NYU has a lively social network on campus, in part because of the huge population of students that live on campus. NYU currently has one of the largest university housing systems in the U.S. with 44% of students living in university-affiliated housing. Many students prefer to live on campus partly because housing is guaranteed, but also because many residences are converted apartment complexes or renovated hotels. Students often praise university housing for having common areas, living rooms, and kitchens where students can practice independence while still living in college housing. Students also love the proximity to dynamic New York neighborhoods like Union Square and Chinatown.

Because of the large student population, there are more than 300 clubs and organizations on campus. About five percent of students participate in Greek life, and they have several strong sports teams.

They compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III levels and the University Athletic Association. NYU also has several respected student-run publications, including the daily newspaper, “The Washington Square News” and the NYU Local blog, “The Plague.”

Students looking for a uniquely urban setting in one of the most exciting cities should check out NYU. The location offers many extracurricular activities, plus opportunities for internships and job placement. With an emphasis on the arts, the school has inspired many accomplished alumni, and continues to help students focus on their studies while still enjoying off-campus interests. Those who are interested in a large student population will enjoy NYU’s sprawling campus and student organizations.