In every great city, there stands an institution that reflects its heartbeat, a place where ambition, diversity, and perseverance come together. In New York City, that place is The City College of New York (CCNY). Set high above Harlem, this historic college has long been a gateway for dreamers and doers seeking more than an education. They come in search of a chance.
Founded in 1847 by Townsend Harris, CCNY began as an audacious idea: to offer free higher education to the children of immigrants and the poor, based purely on academic merit. It was the first of its kind in the United States, a bold experiment in equality and access. Nearly 180 years later, that vision continues to shape not only the college but the very fabric of public education in America.
From its modest beginnings, CCNY grew into the foundation of what would become the City University of New York, the largest urban university system in the nation. Along the way, it produced ten Nobel laureates and countless leaders who carried forward the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines the college. Yet beyond the accolades, what truly stands out is its enduring mission to remain a beacon for those who rise above circumstance through learning.
Today, CCNY’s legacy is not only preserved but actively lived. It continues to welcome students from all walks of life, individuals driven by a tenacious desire to learn, lead, and create meaningful change. In a time when access to education still defines opportunity, The City College of New York stands as living proof that when doors are opened wide, greatness walks in.
An Academic Ecosystem Built for Real-World Impact
At The City College of New York, education is not confined to classrooms or textbooks. It is deeply connected to the pulse of the city, reflecting the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing world. CCNY’s academic structure is designed to blend rigorous scholarship with real-world application, making its programs both distinctive and accessible.
The college’s strengths shine through in areas such as architecture, engineering, and biomedical sciences, where innovation meets purpose. Its seven-year B.S./M.D. program, for example, offers a seamless path for aspiring physicians committed to serving diverse communities. The Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture sets itself apart by integrating practical design-build experiences in masonry, grounding creativity in hands-on expertise.
CCNY’s commitment to lifelong learning extends through the Division of Interdisciplinary Studies at the Center for Worker Education, which serves working adults through flexible programs, including the master’s in the Study of the Americas. The Branding + Integrated Communications (BIC) master’s program further highlights the college’s forward-thinking approach, combining strategy, creativity, and technology into a career-ready curriculum.
Beyond academics, undergraduate students engage in research, publish findings, and present alongside faculty. This early exposure to discovery and collaboration exemplifies CCNY’s mission, which is to educate, empower, and elevate.
Guided by Visionary Leadership
Strong leadership has always shaped The City College of New York’s direction and purpose. At the helm stands Dr. Vincent G. Boudreau, the college’s 13th president, appointed in December 2017. Before leading CCNY, he served as the founding dean of the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership, where he helped connect academic study with civic action. His background as a scholar of social movements, particularly in Southeast Asia, gives him a global perspective rooted in community engagement and social responsibility.
Dr. Boudreau’s vision for CCNY is clear: to attract students who embody resilience, curiosity, and a desire to serve the greater good. He believes education should not only open doors to opportunity but also inspire a commitment to improving the world beyond campus walls. His leadership continues to strengthen CCNY’s legacy as a hub for equity, diversity, and intellectual discovery.
Supporting this mission is Provost Tony Liss, an internationally recognized physicist whose research at the world’s highest energy accelerators has advanced scientific understanding on a global scale. Together, Dr. Boudreau and Dr. Liss embodies the spirit of CCNY, which values academic excellence, integrity, and the courage to make a meaningful impact.
Opening Doors Through Opportunity and Access
The College has always stood for educational access rooted in merit and equity. Its admissions process reflects that founding principle, ensuring that opportunity is not limited by background or circumstance. Through the CUNY application system, prospective students can easily apply to CCNY’s undergraduate and graduate programs, simplifying the first step toward higher education.
The college follows a holistic admissions process that looks beyond grades alone. While academic performance remains an important factor, applicants are also evaluated on recommendation letters, portfolios, and program-specific requirements. This approach allows CCNY to recognize potential in many forms, valuing creativity, leadership, and perseverance alongside traditional measures of achievement.
To support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, CCNY has established initiatives like SEEK (Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge) and ASAP (Accelerated Study in Associate Programs). Both are designed to help students thrive academically and personally through dedicated advising, career development, and financial assistance that covers tuition, textbooks, and even transportation.
By combining accessibility with strong academic standards, CCNY ensures that every student, no matter their starting point, has the resources, guidance, and encouragement to succeed. In doing so, it keeps alive its original promise: to make higher education a pathway for all.
A Growing Community of Diverse Learners
Enrollment at CCNY continues to reflect the growing appeal of its mission and academic excellence. In the Fall 2025 semester, the College reached an enrollment of 16,600 students, a remarkable 9 percent increase from the previous year and the largest student body since 2017. This growth includes both new and continuing students, showing a steady rise in confidence and commitment among those who choose to study at the college.
Among the total student population of 16,600, there are 8,502 women, accounting for 51.2%, and 8,098 men, making up 48.8 %. These figures represent more than just numbers; they illustrate a vibrant and balanced academic community focused on opportunity and inclusion.
College leaders emphasize that this surge in enrollment is not simply about expanding headcounts. It signifies CCNY’s continued success in opening its doors wider to students who have historically been underrepresented in higher education, all while upholding its strong academic standards. The growth mirrors the college’s commitment to providing a high-quality education that remains accessible, diverse, and forward-looking, true to the legacy that has defined CCNY for nearly two centuries.
Celebrating Diversity Through Inclusive Learning
Diversity is not just a characteristic of The City College of New York; it is its greatest strength. With students representing more than 150 countries, CCNY stands as one of the most culturally rich campuses in the nation. This global mix of perspectives shapes both the learning environment and the sense of community that defines the college.
To ensure every student thrives, CCNY embraces inclusive teaching practices that honor different learning styles and experiences. Faculty members use a range of approaches, from lectures and collaborative projects to experiential learning opportunities that connect theory with real-world application. This flexibility allows students to engage deeply, no matter how they learn best.
Support for student success extends beyond the classroom. The college provides robust academic advising, tutoring centers, writing labs, and mental health counseling, all designed to help students stay on track and feel supported. Cultural programs and student organizations further enhance campus life, hosting events that celebrate heritage, dialogue, and connection.
CCNY also invests in faculty excellence and diversity. With more than 95 percent of faculty holding terminal degrees, the college places a strong focus on culturally responsive teaching and mentorship. The result is an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to achieve their potential.
A Campus Alive with Energy and Opportunity
Life at CCNY extends far beyond the classroom. The campus buzzes with energy, offering students countless ways to learn, connect, and grow outside their academic pursuits. Whether through athletics, arts, or student organizations, the College provides an environment where engagement and exploration are part of everyday life.
The College proudly fields 14 varsity teams that compete in NCAA Division III, giving student-athletes the chance to showcase their talent while balancing academics. For those who prefer recreation over competition, CCNY offers first-class fitness and sports facilities that encourage health and wellness across campus.
Beyond athletics, more than 200 student-run clubs and organizations bring together one of the most diverse student bodies in the country. These groups represent a wide range of interests, from cultural associations and professional societies to performing arts and community service initiatives. Students also enjoy access to discount passes for local plays and movies, ensuring that culture and creativity remain an integral part of campus life.
Overseeing it all is the Department of Student Life and Leadership Development, which coordinates extracurricular and co-curricular programs designed to complement each student’s academic experience. At CCNY, learning continues in every conversation, collaboration, and shared moment on campus.
Leadership That Drives Excellence
Behind CCNY’s continued success is a leadership team dedicated to academic integrity, innovation, and student achievement. President Vincent G. Boudreau and Provost Tony M. Liss guide the college’s strategic vision and uphold its mission of access and excellence. Supporting them are key leaders such as Dee Dee Mozeleski, Senior Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Communications, and External Relations, who also serves as Executive Director of the Foundation for City College and Senior Advisor to the President.
Scott Gurba, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, ensures the smooth day-to-day functioning of the college, while Stephen O’Brien, Interim Dean of Science and Professor, provides academic leadership within the sciences. Together, these accomplished individuals maintain CCNY’s standing among the nation’s top public colleges, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report, and continue to strengthen its reputation for quality, diversity, and opportunity.
A Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At The City College of New York, diversity is more than representation; it is a guiding principle that shapes every part of campus life. Through its Office of Compliance and Diversity, CCNY upholds a strong commitment to equal opportunity in both education and employment. The college ensures that every student, faculty member, and staff member can thrive in an environment that values fairness, respect, and belonging.
CCNY’s policies reflect this deep dedication. The institution actively recruits, hires, retains, and promotes employees without bias, while also guaranteeing equal access to educational programs and services for all students. By maintaining a campus culture that is inclusive and free from discrimination, CCNY continues to build a community where differences are celebrated and every individual is empowered to succeed. This unwavering focus on equity is central to its mission and a defining part of what makes CCNY truly exceptional.
Supporting Students Every Step of the Way
At CCNY, student success is more than a goal; it is a shared commitment. The college’s Student Support Services Program (SSSP) stands at the heart of that mission, helping undergraduates stay on course toward earning their degrees and discovering their potential. Whether a student needs help choosing a major, improving grades, or planning for graduate school, CCNY ensures that guidance is always within reach.
Eligible students in the program may receive up to $1,000 in grant aid, offering both encouragement and financial relief. The college also celebrates excellence through awards such as the $5,000 Zitrin Scholarship for outstanding academic performance and the $500 Zitrin Tutor-Mentor Award, which recognizes peer leaders who uplift others. Alongside advising, counseling, and mentoring, these programs create a supportive community where every student can grow with confidence and purpose.
Shaping the Future of Health and Education
Looking ahead, The City College of New York is deepening its focus on preparing the next generation of health professionals and researchers. Within the Division of Science, health professions education has become a central priority, driven by the need for a skilled and diverse workforce in medicine, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, public health, biomedical research, and biotechnology.
CCNY is expanding its health-professions pipeline through several new initiatives that create multiple pathways to success. These include enhanced academic advising, flexible majors, post-baccalaureate programs, and allied-health certificate options in fields such as medical assisting and technician training. By combining these efforts with early STEM outreach and data-informed guidance, the college ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of an evolving healthcare landscape.
Each of these steps reflects CCNY’s broader mission to advance health equity, expand opportunity, and continue shaping education that serves the greater good.
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“We’re the City College of yesterday, today and tomorrow. See yourself here. City College.”
