CUNY Hostos Community College

Hostos Community College, a vital part of The City University of New York (CUNY) system, stands as a testament to community empowerment and educational access in the South Bronx. Established in 1968, it was founded in direct response to the powerful calls from the Hispanic/Puerto Rican community for a college that would truly serve their needs. From its earliest days, Hostos embraced a groundbreaking mission, initially recognized as the only bilingual education college in the region, a commitment that continues to shape its offerings today.

The college opened its doors to its first class of 623 students in 1970, marking a pivotal moment for accessible higher education in New York City. What began in a former tire factory quickly grew, leading to its current, larger home at 149th Street and Grand Concourse. This strategic location in the heart of the South Bronx underscores its deep connection to the community it serves, offering a vibrant urban campus experience.

Hostos is renowned for its dedication to providing a high-quality, supportive learning environment. While its initial broad bilingual policy was adjusted after 1997, the college still proudly offers a significant array of courses in Spanish, ensuring continued support for its diverse student body. As a public community college, Hostos provides essential pathways to associate degrees, career advancement, and seamless transfer opportunities to four-year institutions within the CUNY system and beyond, making higher education achievable for thousands of students.

With 7,387 students and an endowment of US$2.2 million, Eugenio María de Hostos Community College remains a beacon of opportunity, fostering academic success and community development in one of New York City's most dynamic neighborhoods.