Cooper Union is one of the best-kept secrets in higher education, offering a truly remarkable undergraduate experience. Located in the heart of New York City’s East Village, this small but prestigious college has built a reputation for excellence in architecture, art, and engineering. Founded in 1859 by industrialist Peter Cooper to provide an education “as free as air and water,” the school continues to challenge students to think boldly, collaborate creatively, and push boundaries.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at campus life, admissions, and academics to answer: what is Cooper Union known for?
What is Cooper Union Known For?
Having around 1,000 students and a faculty-student ratio of 9 to 1, Cooper Union is considered highly selective with an acceptance rate of 13% based on the total number of completed Common Applications submitted for fall 2024 (4% School of Architecture, 9% School of Art, 23% School of Engineering). One of the most unique aspects of Cooper Union is that all undergraduate students receive a half-tuition scholarship easing the cost of college, especially when considering the cost of New York City.
What Majors are Most Popular At Cooper?
The most popular majors at Cooper Union are Architecture, Art, and Engineering:
Architecture
Finding the right architecture program for undergraduate students can be a daunting task, but look no further than exploring the Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture. They are always ranked high for their commitment to education. More importantly, the five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree blends design studio work with strong foundations in history, theory, and technology. Their website explains that “the curriculum stresses the importance of architecture as a humanistic discipline concerned with the design and construction of habitats in diverse social and ecological conditions, and their corresponding requirements for sustainability and ethical responsibility.”
Fine Arts
Students interested in painting, sculpture, photography, film, and new media should definitely explore Cooper Union’s Bachelor of Fine Arts. Students are offered their own studio space to work on various creations that allow them to dive deeper into their studies. Not only that, but many of the students are able to showcase their work throughout venues in New York City. Do you dream of showcasing your work at a gallery in the Lower East Side? Cooper Union can make it happen.
Engineering
If you have a serious interest in Engineering, Cooper Union can help you hone in and find your passion. Whether you want to study civil engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering or mechanical engineering, all four majors are housed under the Albert Nerken School of Engineering with accreditation by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. With small class sizes and project-based learning, Cooper Union focuses on ensuring graduates are ready for the workforce. There is an abundance of research opportunities that allow any Cooper Union student to work closely with faculty.
What Does Cooper Union Look For In A Student?
Cooper Union takes a holistic approach towards the application process. This means that grades and test scores are just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions is looking for students who are creative and have a passion for intellectual curiosity. This means that students who develop an interest in their major while in high school have greater odds of acceptance. They want students who are leaders, think outside the box, and are socially aware of the current climate.
Is Cooper Union Free?
All Cooper Union students, regardless of their major, quality for the half-tuition scholarship. This means that if you are accepted, 50% of your tuition will be covered, making this an affordable option for many students and families. Students will still have access to merit aid scholarships and federal student aid. Choosing a school like Cooper Union could be cheaper than attending your local state flagship university.
How Do I Learn More About Cooper Union?
Cooper Union offers tours, admissions webinars, and a variety of admissions officers to answer all of your questions. One of the best features Cooper Union offers is direct access to students via their website. You can connect with a current student and ask them anything you are possibly afraid to ask admissions staff. Maybe you want to know more about campus culture? Perhaps you want to find out what it is like living in the dorms? Students are always readily available during business hours to answer these questions.
FAQs
Is Cooper Union a small school?
Yes. Cooper Union has under 1,000 undergraduate students, which creates an intimate and personalized learning environment. Small class sizes and close interaction with professors foster a strong sense of community and collaboration.
Is Cooper Union hard to get into?
Yes. With an overall acceptance rate around 13%, Cooper Union is considered a highly selective school. Admission is especially competitive for programs like Architecture and Art, which accept only a small percentage of applicants each year.
Is there housing available at Cooper Union?
Yes. Cooper Union offers student housing within walking distance of campus, giving students easy access to both college life and downtown Manhattan.
Does Cooper Union have Early Action?
No. Cooper Union does not accept Early Action applications. It does offer a binding Early Decision application for students who are committed to attending.
Does Cooper Union offer full scholarships?
Historically, Cooper Union provided a full-tuition scholarship to every student. Today, all admitted undergraduates receive a half-tuition scholarship, and many also qualify for additional need-based or merit aid.
Conclusion
Cooper Union stands out as a rare institution that blends academic rigor, artistic innovation, and affordability in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. With nationally recognized programs in architecture, art, and engineering, it offers an exceptional opportunity to learn, create, and grow without overwhelming financial pressure.
If you’re the kind of student who thrives on collaboration, craves challenge, and dreams of using your creativity to make an impact, Cooper Union deserves a top spot on your college list. Looking for help building a balanced list that maximizes your acceptance odds? The expert counselors at HelloCollege can help. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation.
