Founded: 1892
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Location: Ithaca, New York
Campus Size: 670 acres
Student Population: Approximately 4,800 undergraduate students and 400 graduate students
School Colors: Blue and Gold
Mascot: Bomber the Bear
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s degrees (B.A., B.S., B.F.A., B.M.)
Master’s degrees (M.S., M.A., M.M., M.B.A.)
Doctorate (D.P.T. in Physical Therapy)
Schools and Divisions:
School of Humanities and Sciences (H&S)
Roy H. Park School of Communications: Renowned for programs in journalism, media, film, and television.
School of Business
School of Music, Theatre, and Dance: Recognized for its top-tier performing arts programs.
School of Health Sciences and Human Performance (HSHP)
Division of Graduate and Professional Studies
Popular Programs:
Film, Photography, and Visual Arts
Journalism and Strategic Communications
Physical Therapy
Business Administration
Music (Performance, Composition, Education)
Theatre and Dance
Psychology
Environmental Studies
Student-Faculty Ratio:
9:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from professors.
Notable Features:
Emphasis on Experiential Learning: Students participate in internships, co-ops, and fieldwork across the U.S. and abroad.
Interdisciplinary Education: The curriculum encourages combining multiple fields of study.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Ithaca students can study in over 50 countries, with a dedicated satellite campus in London.
Housing and Residential Life:
Ithaca is a residential college, with students required to live on campus for the first three years.
Housing options include traditional residence halls, apartment-style housing, and themed communities.
Clubs and Organizations:
Over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, student media, performing arts ensembles, and service organizations.
Popular groups include student-run radio and TV stations (WICB, ICTV) and theatre clubs.
Athletics:
NCAA Division III: Ithaca competes in the Liberty League Conference.
Offers 27 varsity sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and crew.
Facilities include the Athletics and Events Center and multiple outdoor fields.
Cultural and Social Life:
Regular events such as concerts, film screenings, guest speakers, and festivals.
Students frequently explore the city of Ithaca, known for its art galleries, live music, and excellent dining scene.
Diversity and Inclusion:
The college is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community.
Offers support through the Center for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Social Change (IDEAS) and cultural student organizations.
Selectivity:
Ithaca is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 70%.
Holistic admissions consider academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal statements.
Application Platforms:
Common Application
Coalition Application
Ithaca College Application (available on their website)
Deadlines:
Early Decision: November 1
Early Action: December 1
Regular Decision: February 1
Test-Optional:
Ithaca College is test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not required for most programs.
Merit-Based Scholarships:
Awarded automatically to applicants based on academic achievements.
Scholarships range from $10,000 to $35,000 per year.
Need-Based Financial Aid:
U.S. students must submit the FAFSA (Ithaca’s code: 002739).
International students must submit the CSS Profile or other financial documentation.
Talent Scholarships:
Available for students in music, theatre, and visual arts programs.
Requires auditions or portfolio submissions.
U.S. News & World Report:
Ranked among the Top 10 Regional Universities in the North.
Recognized for its strong undergraduate teaching and study abroad programs.
Princeton Review:
Included in the list of Best 388 Colleges for academic quality, career preparation, and campus life.
Hollywood Reporter:
Ithaca’s Roy H. Park School of Communications is consistently ranked among the Top 25 Film Schools in the U.S.
Placement Rate:
Over 95% of Ithaca graduates are employed, pursuing advanced degrees, or engaged in service programs within six months of graduation.
Top Employers:
Graduates work at organizations such as NBC, ESPN, Disney, Google, CNN, and the Mayo Clinic.
Career Services:
The Career Services Office provides resume assistance, mock interviews, job search support, and access to the alumni network.
Scenic Location:
Ithaca is located in the Finger Lakes region, known for its stunning gorges, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
The city is regularly ranked as one of the best college towns in the U.S.
Cultural Hub:
Ithaca is home to theaters, art galleries, music festivals, and a thriving farm-to-table food scene.
The city’s commitment to sustainability aligns with Ithaca College’s values.
Renowned Programs: Particularly strong in communications, music, theatre, and health sciences.
Hands-On Learning: Internship opportunities, student-run media, and faculty-led research projects.
Beautiful Campus: A stunning location in the Finger Lakes with modern facilities.
Inclusive Community: Ithaca’s emphasis on diversity and student support ensures a welcoming environment.
Career Preparation: A strong alumni network and personalized career services help students succeed in their post-graduate plans.
School of Humanities and Sciences
Anthropology
Art (Studio Art)
Biology
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Computer Science
Economics
Education (e.g., Secondary Education, Art Education)
English
Concentrations in Creative Writing and Literature
Environmental Studies and Science
History
Mathematics
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Sociology
Theatre Arts Management
Writing
Roy H. Park School of Communications
Cinema and Photography
Concentrations in Film Production, Screenwriting, and Photography
Documentary Studies and Production
Integrated Marketing Communications
Journalism
Media Arts, Production, and Design
Sports Media
Television-Radio
Includes television production, radio broadcasting, and media programming
School of Business
Accounting
Business Administration
Concentrations in Marketing, Finance, Management, and International Business
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Finance
School of Health Sciences and Human Performance (HSHP)
Athletic Training
Clinical Health Studies (Pre-Physical Therapy)
Exercise Science
Health Education
Occupational Therapy (BS/MS Accelerated Program)
Physical Therapy (DPT Accelerated Program)
Public and Community Health
Recreation and Leisure Studies
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
Sport Management
Sport and Exercise Psychology
School of Music, Theatre, and Dance
Music Education
Music Performance
Music Composition
Sound Recording Technology
Theatre Studies
Acting
Musical Theatre
Dance
Jazz Studies
Music Theory
Piano, Strings, Voice, and Instrumental Studies
Ithaca College offers a limited number of graduate programs, primarily in the health sciences and performing arts.
Graduate Programs in Health Sciences
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) (6-year combined BS/DPT program for undergraduates or standalone program for graduate students)
Master of Science (M.S.) in Occupational Therapy
Master of Science (M.S.) in Speech-Language Pathology
Master of Public Health (MPH) (Online Program)
Graduate Programs in Music and Theatre
Master of Music (M.M.) in Performance
Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Education
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Image and Text
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Accounting |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Acting |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Anthropology |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Art (Studio Art) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Biochemistry |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Biology |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Business Administration (Finance, Marketing, etc.) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Cinema and Photography (Film, Screenwriting, Photography) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Clinical Health Studies (Pre-Physical Therapy) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Computer Science |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Dance |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Documentary Studies and Production |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Economics |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Education (Art, Secondary, etc.) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
English (Creative Writing or Literature) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Exercise Science |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Film, Photography, and Visual Arts |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Health Sciences (Public and Community Health) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Integrated Marketing Communications |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
International Business |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Journalism |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Media Arts, Production, and Design |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Music Education |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Music Performance (Strings, Piano, Voice, etc.) |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Musical Theatre |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Occupational Science/Pre-Occupational Therapy |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Philosophy |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Physics |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Politics |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Psychology |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Public Relations |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Sound Recording Technology |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Sport Management |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Sports Media |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Television-Radio |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Theatre Studies |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Writing |
4 Years |
$49,460 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Occupational Therapy |
2 Years |
$21,320 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Speech-Language Pathology |
2 Years |
$21,320 |
Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) (Online) |
2 Years |
$22,000 (Total Program Cost) |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Exercise and Sport Sciences |
2 Years |
$21,320 |
Master of Music (M.M.) in Performance |
2 Years |
$21,320 |
Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Education (Hybrid) |
2–3 Years |
$21,320 |
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Image and Text |
2 Years (Low-Residency) |
$22,000 (Total Program Cost) |
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in Entertainment and Media Management |
1 Year |
$30,000 |
Doctorate Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) |
6 Years (for BS/DPT program) or 3 Years (Post-Bachelor’s) |
$21,320 |
Academic Excellence:
Ithaca College is known for its strong programs in communications, health sciences, business, music, theatre, and liberal arts.
Small class sizes (11:1 student-to-faculty ratio) ensure personalized attention and mentoring from faculty.
Global Community:
Students from more than 60 countries contribute to the diverse and vibrant campus culture.
Location:
Ithaca is located in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York State, offering a safe and welcoming college town with access to outdoor activities, cultural events, and career opportunities.
Supportive Resources:
The Office of International Programs and Extended Studies (OIPES) provides guidance and resources for international students, including help with immigration, academics, and cultural adjustment.
1. Application Process
International students apply through the same process as domestic students, with a few additional requirements:
Application Platforms:
Common Application
Coalition Application
Ithaca College Application (via their website)
2. Required Documents
Completed Application Form (via any of the platforms above).
Official High School Transcripts:
Must include grades and proof of graduation (translated into English if necessary).
English Language Proficiency:
Required if English is not your first language.
Accepted tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105
SAT/ACT (Optional): Strong English section scores can demonstrate proficiency.
Letter(s) of Recommendation:
At least one letter from a teacher, counselor, or school official familiar with your academic abilities.
Personal Essay:
A 250–650-word essay highlighting your academic interests, goals, and personal story.
Certification of Finances:
Proof of financial ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses (e.g., bank statements or a sponsor’s affidavit of support).
Ithaca College accepts applications through the following platforms:
Common Application
Coalition Application
Ithaca College Application (available on their website: N/A
Your application must include the following materials:
Completed Application Form:
Fill out the application form through one of the platforms mentioned above.
Ensure all sections are completed accurately before submission.
High School Transcripts:
Submit official high school transcripts that list courses completed, grades earned, and, if applicable, class rank.
Transcripts must be sent directly from the school.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Ithaca College is test-optional for most programs, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If submitted, competitive scores are:
SAT: 1150–1350 (Evidence-Based Reading & Math).
ACT: 24–30 (composite score).
SAT Code: 2325 | ACT Code: 2772.
Personal Essay:
Write a 250–650 word essay based on prompts provided in the application. Use this as an opportunity to highlight your academic and personal goals, challenges, or unique experiences.
Letter(s) of Recommendation:
Submit at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or school official who knows you well.
Additional letters are welcome but not required.
Resume (Optional):
You may include a resume or list of extracurricular activities, awards, leadership roles, and volunteer work.
Additional Materials for Specific Programs:
Some programs, such as music, theatre, or visual arts, require auditions, interviews, or portfolio submissions.
If you are an international student, you must also provide:
English Language Proficiency Test Scores:
Required if English is not your first language.
Accepted tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
SAT/ACT (optional): Strong English scores can substitute for language proficiency tests.
Certification of Finances:
Submit proof of financial ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Examples: Bank statements, sponsor letters, or a completed CSS Profile.
Admission Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
---|---|---|
Early Decision (Binding) |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Early Action (Non-Binding) |
December 1 |
Mid-January |
Regular Decision |
February 1 |
Late March |
If you are applying to programs in music, theatre, or visual arts, additional steps may include:
Auditions: Required for programs such as music performance, acting, and musical theatre.
Portfolio Submissions: Required for visual arts programs, including film, photography, and graphic design.
Specific guidelines for auditions and portfolios can be found on the Ithaca College Admissions page.
The application fee is $60, but fee waivers are available for eligible students.
After submitting your application, you can track its progress through the Ithaca College Applicant Portal, which will be created once you apply. This portal will:
Notify you when materials are received.
Allow you to upload missing documents.
Display your admission decision.
Ithaca College primarily admits students for the Fall Semester, with limited programs offering Spring Semester intakes.
Fall Semester:
Primary intake for undergraduate programs.
Includes Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision plans.
Spring Semester:
Limited availability for certain undergraduate programs.
Application Deadline: October 1.
Fall Semester:
Most graduate programs, including the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Master's programs, admit students for the Fall Semester.
Spring Semester:
Select graduate programs may offer spring intake options.
Rolling Admissions:
Some online or hybrid graduate programs, such as the Master of Public Health (MPH), may accept applications on a rolling basis.
To be eligible for undergraduate programs, students must meet the following criteria:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong performance in challenging coursework such as:
4 years of English.
3–4 years of Mathematics (including Algebra II or higher).
3–4 years of Natural Sciences (at least one lab science).
3–4 years of Social Studies or History.
2–3 years of Foreign Language (preferred but not required).
Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.2 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Ithaca College is test-optional for most programs, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not required.
Students may submit scores if they believe it strengthens their application.
Competitive SAT Scores: 1150–1350 (Evidence-Based Reading and Math).
Competitive ACT Scores: 24–30 (composite).
SAT Code: 2325 | ACT Code: 2772.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
Required if English is not your first language.
Accepted tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
SAT/ACT: Strong scores on the English sections of these tests may demonstrate proficiency.
Additional Requirements:
Letter of Recommendation: At least one recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or school official.
Personal Essay: A 250–650 word essay reflecting your personality, goals, and experiences.
Portfolio/Audition: Required for programs in music, theatre, and visual arts.
High School Transcript: Official transcript showing coursework and grades.
Eligibility for graduate programs at Ithaca College varies based on the program. Below are the general requirements:
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is preferred for most programs.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT):
Completion of prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics.
M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology:
Undergraduate coursework in communication sciences and disorders or related fields.
M.M. in Music Performance:
Requires an audition or portfolio review.
Master of Public Health (MPH):
A background in health sciences, public health, or a related field is preferred but not required.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Additional Materials:
Resume or CV (for certain programs).
Statement of Purpose: Explain why you are pursuing the program and your career goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Two or three letters depending on the program.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD Per Year) |
Application Requirement |
---|---|---|---|
Presidential Scholarship |
- Awarded based on academic excellence. |
$15,000–$35,000 |
Automatically considered during the admission process. |
Dean’s Scholarship |
- Strong academic performance and leadership qualities. |
$10,000–$25,000 |
Automatically considered during the admission process. |
Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Scholar Program |
- For high-achieving students with a strong commitment to social justice, diversity, and service. |
$25,000–$35,000 |
Separate application required; must submit additional essay and participate in interviews. |
Park Scholar Program |
- For students in the Roy H. Park School of Communications. |
Full Tuition + Living Stipend |
Separate application required; includes essays, recommendations, and an interview. |
Talent-Based Scholarships |
- For students in Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. |
N/A |
Separate application required; submit portfolio or schedule an audition. |
Need-Based Grants |
- Awarded based on demonstrated financial need. |
N/A |
Submit FAFSA (U.S. students) or CSS Profile (international students). |
Endowed and Named Scholarships |
- Based on specific donor criteria (academic achievement, financial need, or field of study). |
N/A |
No separate application; automatically considered based on eligibility. |
International Student Scholarships |
- Available to international students based on academic merit and leadership. |
$10,000–$35,000 |
Automatically considered during the admission process. |
Leadership Scholarship |
- Recognizes students with exceptional leadership in school or community. |
$5,000–$7,500 |
Automatically considered during the admission process. |
Ithaca First Scholarship |
- For first-generation college students who demonstrate strong academic ability and leadership potential. |
$5,000–$10,000 |
No separate application; awarded automatically during admission. |
ROTC Scholarships |
- For students participating in ROTC programs. |
(Up to Full Tuition) |
Apply through ROTC program and meet specific eligibility requirements. |
External Scholarships |
- Offered by outside organizations (e.g., Fulbright, local government grants). |
N/A |
Students must apply directly to the sponsoring organization. |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Traditional Residence Halls |
- Shared rooms (double or triple occupancy). |
$9,190–$9,610 |
Suite-Style Housing |
- Suites for 4–6 students with shared living areas and bathrooms. |
$10,070–$11,020 |
Apartment-Style Housing |
- Fully furnished apartments with kitchens, private bedrooms (single occupancy), and shared living areas. |
$11,620–$12,430 |
First-Year Residential Communities |
- Designated housing for first-year students to foster community. |
$9,190–$9,610 |
Gender-Inclusive Housing |
- Open to students of all gender identities and expressions. |
$9,190–$12,430 |
Themed Housing (Living Learning Communities) |
- Housing organized around themes such as sustainability, arts, or social justice. |
$9,190–$12,430 |
Meal Plan Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Unlimited Meal Plan |
- Unlimited access to dining halls. |
$7,750 |
Block Meal Plan |
- Limited number of meals per semester (e.g., 15 meals per week). |
$7,500–$7,750 |
1. A Welcoming and Inclusive Community
Diverse Student Body: Ithaca College is home to students from over 60 countries and all 50 U.S. states, creating a culturally rich campus environment.
Commitment to Inclusion: The college prioritizes equity and inclusion through initiatives by the Center for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Social Change (IDEAS). Students from various backgrounds feel supported and valued.
International Student Support: The college provides resources to help international students adjust to campus life, including visa guidance and cultural programs.
2. Clubs and Organizations
Ithaca College offers 200+ student-run clubs and organizations catering to a wide range of interests. These include:
Academic and Professional Groups:
Business Professionals Club, Health Sciences Club, Pre-Law Society.
Cultural and Identity Groups:
African Students Association, Asian American Alliance, Latinx Student Association, Hillel (Jewish Student Organization).
Performing Arts Groups:
A cappella groups, theatre troupes, dance clubs.
Media Organizations:
ICTV (Ithaca College Television): A student-run TV station offering real-world media experience.
WICB (Student Radio): An award-winning radio station operated by students.
Park Productions: Opportunities for film and digital media students to showcase their skills.
Special Interest Clubs:
Outdoor Adventure Club, Sustainability Club, Gaming Club, Photography Club.
Community Service Organizations:
Colleges Against Cancer, Habitat for Humanity, and more.
3. Campus Events and Activities
Cultural Festivals:
Events like Diwali Night, Black History Month Celebrations, and International Education Week allow students to celebrate cultural diversity.
Social Events:
Activities include movie nights, live concerts, comedy shows, open mic events, and seasonal festivals.
Guest Speakers and Workshops:
The college frequently hosts prominent speakers, industry leaders, and workshops to inspire and educate students.
Annual Traditions:
Events like First Bomber Weekend, Spring Fling, and Senior Week create memorable experiences for students.
4. Residential Life
Ithaca College is a residential campus, meaning most students live on campus for their first few years.
Community Building:
Residence halls are designed to foster community engagement through programs, social events, and collaborative study spaces.
Living Learning Communities (LLCs):
Students can choose themed housing options such as sustainability, arts, or leadership to connect with peers who share similar interests.
Upperclassmen Options:
Juniors and seniors can live in suite-style or apartment-style housing, which offers greater independence.
5. Athletics and Recreation
Varsity Athletics:
Ithaca College competes in NCAA Division III and is a member of the Liberty League, with 27 varsity sports including football, basketball, soccer, and crew.
Intramural and Club Sports:
Students can participate in sports like ultimate frisbee, rugby, and yoga through intramural and club programs.
Recreational Facilities:
The Athletics and Events Center includes a fitness center, indoor pool, climbing wall, and indoor track.
Outdoor Activities:
With the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes, students can explore hiking trails, gorges, and lakes, or participate in the Outdoor Adventure Club.
6. Arts and Culture
Ithaca College is a hub for arts and culture, with its School of Music, Theatre, and Dance and Roy H. Park School of Communications offering students countless opportunities to perform, create, and collaborate.
Performances:
Students can attend or participate in theatre productions, musicals, concerts, and dance recitals.
Art Galleries:
Exhibitions showcase works from students, faculty, and guest artists.
Student Media:
Platforms like ICTV and WICB provide real-world experience in media and communications.
7. Dining and Food Options
Ithaca College offers multiple dining halls and retail locations on campus, with options to suit diverse dietary preferences:
Traditional Dining Halls:
Variety of cuisines, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly meals.
Cafes and Grab-and-Go Options:
Locations like the Gannett Café and SubConnection offer quick meals and snacks.
Special Dining Events:
Themed dining nights and international cuisine celebrations.
8. Career Preparation and Professional Development
Career Services:
Offers personalized career advising, resume workshops, mock interviews, and access to job and internship opportunities.
Internships:
Ithaca students secure internships with leading companies like NBC, ESPN, Google, and Disney.
Alumni Network:
Ithaca’s strong alumni network provides mentorship and networking opportunities in industries like media, healthcare, business, and performing arts.
9. Community Engagement
Ithaca College emphasizes community service and civic engagement, with numerous opportunities for students to give back:
Volunteer through programs like Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, or the Ithaca Volunteer Center.
Participate in service-learning courses that integrate academic study with community projects.
10. Wellness and Mental Health
Hammond Health Center:
On-campus clinic providing medical care, vaccinations, and wellness resources.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS):
Free counseling sessions and mental health workshops for students.
Wellness Programs:
Yoga classes, meditation sessions, fitness challenges, and stress relief activities are offered throughout the year.
11. City of Ithaca
Safe and Student-Friendly:
Ithaca is a welcoming college town with a low crime rate and a friendly community.
Outdoor Adventures:
Explore waterfalls, hiking trails, and Cayuga Lake in the scenic Finger Lakes region.
Cultural Scene:
Ithaca is home to art galleries, theaters, music festivals, and a farm-to-table food culture.
12. Study Abroad Opportunities
Over 50 study abroad programs allow students to explore the world while earning credit.
Popular destinations include London (Ithaca’s satellite campus), Spain, Italy, and Japan.
Employment Rate:
Over 95% of Ithaca College graduates are employed, enrolled in graduate programs, or engaged in service programs (like AmeriCorps or Peace Corps) within six months of graduation.
Graduate and Professional School Acceptance:
Ithaca College alumni have a high acceptance rate to top graduate and professional schools, including programs in law, medicine, business, and performing arts.
Experiential Learning:
More than 75% of students participate in internships, co-ops, or fieldwork during their time at Ithaca College, giving them hands-on experience and a competitive edge in the job market.
Ithaca alumni are sought after by leading organizations across various industries. Here are some notable employers that frequently hire Ithaca graduates:
Media, Communications, and Entertainment
NBCUniversal
ESPN
CNN
The Walt Disney Company
Warner Bros.
ViacomCBS
Netflix
Condé Nast
Business and Finance
Deloitte
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
KPMG
Ernst & Young (EY)
Bank of America
Goldman Sachs
Healthcare and Science
Mayo Clinic
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Boston Children's Hospital
NYU Langone Health
Pfizer
Johnson & Johnson
Education and Nonprofit
Teach for America
AmeriCorps
Peace Corps
United Nations (UN)
Sports and Recreation
Major League Baseball (MLB)
National Basketball Association (NBA)
Nike
IMG
New York Yankees
Ithaca graduates are admitted to prestigious graduate and professional schools, including:
Harvard University
Columbia University
New York University (NYU)
Stanford University
Boston University
University of Pennsylvania
University of Southern California (USC)
Georgetown University
Cornell University
Ithaca College places a strong emphasis on internships to prepare students for the workforce. Internships are available across industries and often lead to full-time job offers.
Notable Internship Providers:
NBCUniversal (Today Show, MSNBC)
ESPN (Sports Media Internships)
Disney College Program
ViacomCBS (MTV, Nickelodeon)
Local hospitals, clinics, and nonprofit organizations
Internship Highlights:
Internships are integrated into many academic programs, particularly in communications, health sciences, and business.
The Roy H. Park School of Communications connects students with high-profile media companies and internships in Los Angeles, New York City, and beyond.
Ithaca College provides extensive career support through its Office of Career Services, which works closely with students and alumni to ensure career readiness.
Career Advising:
Personalized career counseling sessions to help students explore potential career paths.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance:
Workshops and one-on-one consultations to craft professional resumes and cover letters.
Mock Interviews:
Practice interviews with career advisors to build confidence and improve communication skills.
Job and Internship Fairs:
Ithaca hosts regular career fairs, connecting students with employers from various industries.
Virtual and in-person events help students network with potential employers.
Handshake Platform:
Students gain access to Handshake, an online portal to search for jobs, internships, and networking opportunities with alumni.
Networking Events:
Regularly scheduled alumni panels, meet-and-greet events, and networking nights connect students with successful alumni in their fields of interest.
1. Roy H. Park School of Communications:
Career Paths: Journalism, film production, public relations, digital marketing, TV production.
Employers: NBC, CNN, ESPN, Netflix, Condé Nast.
2. School of Business:
Career Paths: Accounting, marketing, finance, consulting, entrepreneurship.
Employers: Deloitte, PwC, Goldman Sachs, Ernst & Young.
3. School of Health Sciences and Human Performance:
Career Paths: Physical therapy, athletic training, public health, healthcare administration.
Employers: Mayo Clinic, NYU Langone, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
4. School of Music, Theatre, and Dance:
Career Paths: Music performance, music education, acting, directing.
Employers: Broadway productions, regional theatre companies, orchestras, film studios.
5. School of Humanities and Sciences:
Career Paths: Psychology, education, environmental studies, social work.
Employers: Teach for America, nonprofit organizations, government agencies.
Media and Entertainment:
Graduates of the Park School of Communications have landed roles at NBCUniversal, working on hit shows like The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and Saturday Night Live.
Healthcare:
Alumni from the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program work in top hospitals and rehabilitation centers across the U.S.
Performing Arts:
Graduates of the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance are featured on Broadway, in national tours, and in prestigious orchestras.
95% Placement Rate: Employed, in graduate school, or engaged in meaningful activities within 6 months of graduation.
75% Internship Participation: Students complete at least one internship during their undergraduate studies.
High Starting Salaries:
Average starting salary for graduates: $55,000–$70,000 per year, depending on the field.
Experiential Learning: Internships, research opportunities, and fieldwork ensure real-world experience.
Alumni Network: A strong alumni community helps students connect with professionals in their industries.
Comprehensive Career Support: Ithaca’s Career Services office offers lifelong support to help students and alumni navigate their careers.
The acceptance rate of Ithaca College is approximately 70%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that the college admits the majority of applicants who meet its academic and other admission requirements, while still maintaining a focus on quality and a well-rounded student body.
Ithaca College reviews applications holistically, considering both academic achievements and personal qualities.
Students with strong high school performance, meaningful extracurricular activities, and well-written essays have a good chance of being admitted.
Ithaca College evaluates applicants based on a variety of factors, including:
1. Academic Performance
Strong high school GPA is a critical factor.
Competitive applicants typically have:
GPA: 3.2–3.7 on a 4.0 scale.
Strong performance in rigorous courses, such as:
Advanced Placement (AP)
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Honors courses
2. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
Ithaca College is test-optional, meaning students can decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores.
For students who submit test scores:
SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Math): 1150–1350
ACT Composite: 24–30
3. Personal Essay
A well-written essay is an essential part of the application and allows applicants to showcase their goals, personality, and unique experiences.
4. Extracurricular Involvement
Participation in leadership roles, community service, sports, arts, or other meaningful activities is highly valued.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Strong recommendations from teachers or counselors provide insight into the applicant's academic abilities and personal qualities.
6. Program-Specific Requirements
Applicants to programs in music, theatre, or visual arts may need to submit portfolios, audition, or interview as part of the application process.
Ithaca College
953 Danby Road (Route 96B)
Ithaca, New York 14850, USA