public institution covering more than 605 acres (245 hectares) in suburban Binghamton, N.Y., 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of Ithaca. It began as Triple Cities College in 1946, became Harpur College in 1950, and took on its current name in 1965. Binghamton is one of four university centers in the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Fewer than half of the applicants to undergraduate studies are admitted, and almost all accepted students rank in the top fifth of their high school class. Graduate programs are likewise selective. Enrollment at SUNY Binghamton consists of approximately 9,200 undergraduates and 2,800 graduate students, the majority of whom are state residents. About half of the students reside in campus housing, including all traditional-age freshmen who do not live with their parents. The academic calendar is divided into semesters. About 85 percent of the full-time faculty hold doctorates. SUNY Binghamton awards bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Disciplines offered include liberal arts and sciences, area and ethnic studies, education, engineering, business, nursing and other health sciences, visual and performing arts, environmental studies, computer science, and film studies. The university conducts many dual-degree programs, some in conjunction with other members of the SUNY system. Opportunities exist to study at other institutions in New York as well as abroad. Approximately half of the undergraduates pursue advanced studies within a year of graduation. The university conducts an array of extracurricular activities. About 15 percent of the undergraduates join fraternities and sororities, and many participate in intramural sports. Varsity sports teams compete in Division III of the National Collegiate Athletic Association. School colors are green and white. |