CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
The Vibe Check
Baruch College buzzes with the energy of ambitious, career-focused students, reflecting its reputation as a top destination for business and finance in the heart of Manhattan. The campus is a diverse, fast-paced environment where students are always networking, preparing for internships, or engaging in spirited class debates. You'll feel like you're already in the working world, driven by a practical, no-nonsense attitude.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Baruch is renowned for its top-ranked Zicklin School of Business, which offers rigorous programs with a strong focus on real-world application. The faculty are often industry professionals, bringing current Wall Street and corporate experience directly into the classroom. While research opportunities exist, the academic strength lies in its practical, career-oriented curriculum and extensive internship connections.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in New York
Student life is deeply intertwined with New York City; you're just steps away from world-class restaurants, theaters, museums, and iconic landmarks. Students often take advantage of the city for internships, networking events, and exploring diverse neighborhoods like the East Village or SoHo. For fun, you can catch a Broadway show, walk through Central Park, or find endless food options without ever needing a campus dining hall.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($75,971):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a busy, well-patrolled area of Manhattan, but students should remain vigilant as they would in any major city. Baruch has its own public safety department, but the campus is integrated into the city, so awareness of your surroundings is essential.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable ROI with low tuition and high post-graduation earnings
- ✓ Prime Manhattan location provides unparalleled access to internships and networking
- ✓ Highly respected Zicklin School of Business with strong corporate connections
- ✓ Extremely diverse student body representing over160 countries
Cons
- ✗ Primarily a commuter campus, which can make it harder to build a traditional social life
- ✗ The urban setting means classes are in high-rise buildings, not a classic campus
- ✗ Can feel intensely competitive and pre-professional, with less focus on arts or athletics
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Baruch College is best known for its highly-ranked Zicklin School of Business, which is one of the largest business schools in the US. It also has strong programs in public affairs (Marxe School) and arts & sciences. The college is celebrated for its affordability, diverse student body, and its strategic location in Manhattan's financial district, providing direct pipelines to top corporate employers.
With an acceptance rate of 50.48%, Baruch is considered moderately selective. It's more competitive than other CUNY colleges but more accessible than elite private institutions. The middle 50% SAT range is approximately 1250-1400, and successful applicants typically have strong GPAs (3.3+). Admission to specialized programs within the business school can be more competitive.
Campus life at Baruch is unique due to its urban, non-traditional setting. As a commuter-heavy school (over 90%), student life is centered around clubs, organizations, and professional fraternities rather than residential activities. Students are highly motivated and often balance academics with part-time jobs and internships, making the campus feel like a hub for career-focused young professionals.
Yes, for the vast majority of students, Baruch is an outstanding financial investment. The combination of low in-state tuition ($7,464) and a high 10-year median earnings figure ($75,971) creates an exceptional return on investment (ROI). Graduates enter the workforce with a respected degree and minimal debt, positioning them for financial success far more quickly than graduates from more expensive institutions.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1919
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 18,397
- In-State Tuition $7,464
- Out-of-State $15,414
- Zip Code 10010
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of under $3,000 and low in-state tuition, Baruch offers an exceptional return on investment, especially for New York residents. The 10-year median earnings of $75,971 for graduates significantly outpaces the cost of attendance, making it one of the most financially sound choices for a degree in a major city. This is a financially smart path to a high-earning career without the burden of massive student debt.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.