At a Glance
Schenectady, New York
Undergraduate Students: 2,047
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Acceptance Rate: 41%
Six Year Graduation Rate: 85%
Freshman Retention Rate: 91%
Notable Majors/Programs: Engineering, Geology, Computer Science, English, History, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Biology, Neuroscience
The Feel
Union College was founded in 1795 as an engineering school. Since then, they have evolved into a liberal arts college while still maintaining their strong commitment to engineering. The college is also one of the oldest non-religious affiliated schools in the country.
Union college follows the unique trimester system with each term lasting 10-weeks long and students taking only 3 classes per term.
Two academic strengths at Union are interdisciplinary opportunities and study abroad. They offer a number of majors combining two different fields, and their 3-week study abroad trips in December are quite popular.
A majority of students live on campus all 4 years and 40% of their student population are involved in Greek life, which is very high for the northeast.
Standout Points
They just built a brand new, state-of-the-art, $100 million dollar science and engineering complex
All students will conduct a senior thesis or fellowship in order to graduate from Union
Every student at Union will be a member of one of 7 Minerva Houses, which offer another level of community for students. Each house offers their own traditions, planned events and even living space.
Union is in the NCAA Division III for all sports except hockey, where they stand in Division I. Hockey and football have strong traditions here.
Fun Fact
They consider themselves “The Mother of Fraternities” in light of their very strong traditions in Greek life since their beginning.
Bottom Line Fit: Great option for students wanting a small, liberal arts environment, but with very strong STEM programs, particularly in engineering. Union's strong Greek life presence and Minerva Houses offer more than ample opportunities to get connected on campus.
Learn more about Union College