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Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

A Workman That Needeth Not to be Ashamed

Wikipedia
1896
Founded
Private research university
Type
2,449
Total Students
$214M
Endowment
(2024)
$58K
Tuition (In-State)
$58K
Tuition (Out-State)
$32K
Avg Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
85%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Michelle Larson

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

About Clarkson University

Clarkson: A high-research university offering pioneering STEM education and a unique early college experience.

Nestled in Potsdam, New York, Clarkson University stands as a distinguished private research institution, recognized among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity." With approximately 4,000 students, Clarkson cultivates an environment where cutting-edge inquiry meets hands-on learning, empowering future leaders and innovators across a diverse range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.

The university's rich history began in 1896, founded as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology in honor of a local entrepreneur whose heroic self-sacrifice saved a worker's life. Evolving from "Clarkson College of Technology" (affectionately known as "Tech" by its enduring fans) to Clarkson University in 1984, the institution has continuously expanded its main "Hill" campus while maintaining a presence in the New York Capital District. This legacy of courage and innovation remains central to Clarkson's identity.

Academically, Clarkson is renowned for its robust STEM focus, anchored by the Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the David D. Reh School of Business, and the Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences. Complementing these are specialized Institutes for a Sustainable Environment and STEM Education. A recent strategic reorganization further solidifies its commitment to applied sciences, ensuring that students are at the forefront of their fields.

Beyond academics, Clarkson fosters a vibrant student experience. Its athletic teams, the Golden Knights, compete fiercely, with the men's and women's ice hockey programs making national headlines as NCAA Division I powerhouses—the women's team proudly boasts three national championships. Adding to its distinctiveness is The Clarkson School, an innovative early entrance program that allows motivated high school students, affectionately known as "Schoolies," to begin their college journey early, immersing themselves fully in the university's dynamic living and learning community.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," signifying its significant contributions to research.
  • Serves approximately 4,000 students across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs.
  • Benefits from a robust $214 million endowment as of 2024, supporting institutional growth and student success.
  • The NCAA Division I Women's Ice Hockey team has secured three national championships (2014, 2017, 2018).
  • Offers The Clarkson School, a unique early college entrance program for academically advanced high school students.
  • Founded in 1896, its history is rooted in a legacy of heroism and community dedication.
  • Features a comprehensive suite of STEM-focused schools and institutes, including the Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Timeline

1896
Founded as Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology
1913
Name changed to Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial College of Technology
1978
The Clarkson School, an early entrance college program, was founded
1984
Officially became Clarkson University
2001
Most academics and housing relocated to the "Hill" campus
2016
Union Graduate College merged into Clarkson University, becoming the Capital Region Campus
2022
The Hill campus was named "The Collins Hill Campus"
2023
Board of trustees approved a reorganization plan, phasing out certain majors and consolidating schools
2025
Michelle Larson became the university's 19th and first female president
🏛️
130 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within Clarkson University

💼

David D. Reh School of Business

Offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in various business disciplines.

⚙️

Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

A central pillar of Clarkson's academic profile, focusing on comprehensive engineering and applied science programs.

🔬

Earl R. and Barbara D. Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences

Provides degree programs in health and life sciences, contributing to advancements in these vital fields.

🏫

Institute for a Sustainable Environment

An interdisciplinary institute dedicated to research and education focused on environmental sustainability.

📚

Institute for STEM Education

Promotes and enhances excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education across the university.

🏫

The Clarkson School

A special division offering an early entrance opportunity for high school students to begin their college education on campus.

Leadership

via Wikipedia

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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