Skip to content
CollegeRanker
Colleges / NY / New York
The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art logo

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

Private nonprofit New York, NY · Urban · Mid-Atlantic · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
81%
Graduation Rate
$83,847
Earnings (10yr)
$13,269
Net Price
21%
Acceptance Rate

Find Your Program

Match With an Accredited Program Accepting Applicants

Explore accredited programs — fast, free, no obligation.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Overview

At The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, students dive deep into specialized fields like Engineering and Visual & Performing Arts. With an acceptance rate of 21%, this school attracts a diverse group of passionate individuals who are eager to explore their creative and technical sides. The strong graduation rate of 81% reflects a commitment to student success, and the tight-knit community in New York City enhances the learning experience, connecting students to countless opportunities in both industries.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $83,847 within ten years. That’s a solid return on investment, especially when considering the affordability of the education here. The net price after aid is about $13,269, which keeps the cost manageable for many students. Given that 28% of students receive Pell Grants, it’s clear that Cooper Union aims to support those who need it most, making it a viable option for a range of socioeconomic backgrounds.

When we look at the practicalities, the median debt for graduates stands at $15,000. This relatively low debt load, combined with the strong earnings potential, means graduates are well-positioned to thrive in their careers. The school attracts students who are not just academically driven but also engaged in their communities, making it an ideal fit for those who want to blend their passions with practical skills in a collaborative environment.

Rankings

How The Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation81%Earnings 10yr$84KNet Price$13KRetention92%Median Debt$15KPell Grant Rate28%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$4K$0-30K$7K$30-48K$10K$48-75K$26K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%828.3%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%5164.7%MOBILITY427.76%

Cost & Financial Aid

$46,820
In-State Tuition
$46,820
Out-of-State
$13,269
Avg Net Price
$15,000
Median Debt
28%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$3,749
Family Income $0–$30K
$6,904
Family Income $30K–$48K
$10,457
Family Income $48K–$75K
$25,870
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$39,707
6 Years After Entry
$57,789
8 Years
$83,847
10 Years
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
66%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$39,707 6yr $57,789 8yr $83,847 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

427.76%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
5164.7%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
828.3%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$110,100
Parent Median Income

Innovation

Data: Opportunity Insights Patent & Innovation Data

5.964%
Inventor Rate
96
Total Patents
299
Total Citations

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 21%
Retention Rate 92%
SAT Average 1410
SAT Range 1295–1501
ACT Range 28–34
Full-Time Faculty 27%
Faculty Salary (mo) $14,408
Diversity Index 0.79
First-Gen Students 19%

Top Programs

Engineering 56%
Visual & Performing Arts 32%