Albany, NY

Albany, NY is the capital of the fourth-most populated state in the country, and is about 3 hours directly north of NYC. For its size (population just under 100,000), Albany has many colleges to choose from and certainly has a college-town feel, not unlike most capital cities. 

Here is a look at some of the colleges and universities is Albany, NY.

Universities in Albany, NY – 4-Year Colleges and Online Options

Albany is home to one of the many SUNY schools (SUNY at Albany) and also is where the popular online university, Excelsior College, is based. Other notable colleges and universities in Albany include Bryant & Stratton College, Maria College, and the College of Saint Rose. 

Albany is also home to a few specialized 4-year and graduate schools:

  • Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
  • Albany Law School (Graduate)
  • Albany Medical College (Graduate)

Though Excelsior offers pretty much anything you’d want from an online program, other schools in the city are lacking in their undergraduate online offerings. SUNY Albany does, however, offer many non-credit courses online for members of the community, and also has a handful of graduate degrees available online, if you choose to continue your education after entering the workforce. 

Community Colleges in Albany 

Albany and the surrounding areas offer plenty of options for 2-year degrees and certificates as well. SUNY Schenectay is right up the road, as well as Hudson Valley Community College (Troy, NY).

For aspiring nurses of all ages in the Albany area, St. Peter’s Hospital offers a renowned associate’s program in nursing with very high job placement rates. Also located in the city is the Albany BOCES’ Adult Practical Nursing Program for non-traditional students. 

Check out these other schools in Albany that offer different associate degrees and specialized certifications:

  • Mildred Elley School – Albany
  • Orlo School of Hair Design and Cosmetology
  • The New School Center for Media
  • Center for NAtural Wellness School of Massage Therap

Get to Know Albany

Alexander Hamilton called Albany home for a while, and given that it’s a capital city, Albany has also produced some modern politicians such as recent presidential hopeful Kristin Gillibrand. 

Located on the Hudson River, much of the city’s recreation revolves around the water, and in the summer months, many students enjoy their time off by taking a dip. It does get cold in the winter, so it’s not a surprise that Albany’s students like to have a good time in the city’s bar district, but the outdoors types can still enjoy one of many of the local ski resorts when the temperature drops. 

Music is also a staple in this city, as proven by the popularity of events like the Riverfront Jazz Festival, Latin Fest, and the regionally famous Albany Tulip Festival. 

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