Queens College: A Legacy of Academic Excellence and Social Mobility
Established in 1937, Queens College is a distinguished public institution within the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Guided by its Latin motto, Discimus ut serviamus ("We learn so that we may serve"), the college has evolved into a hub of academic rigor and diversity in New York City. With an endowment of $85 million and a sprawling 83-acre urban campus, it serves a vast student body of over 18,000 individuals seeking undergraduate and postgraduate success.
Key Facts
- Established: 1937
- Parent Institution: City University of New York (CUNY)
- Student Population: 18,494 (14,384 undergraduates; 4,110 postgraduates)
- Academic Breadth: 78 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate programs
- Athletic Affiliation: NCAA Division II – East Coast Conference (ECC)
- Mascot: The Knight
Historical Foundations
Long before the college was founded, the campus grounds held significant educational history. In the early 19th century, the site was home to the Jamaica Academy, a one-room schoolhouse where the renowned poet Walt Whitman once taught. By 1909, the land became the site of the New York Parental School, a facility for troubled boys that incorporated the academy into its campus.
Buildings from this era, such as Jefferson Hall, served as both classrooms and dormitories before the site transitioned into the public college we recognize today in 1937.
Civil Rights and Social Impact
Queens College has a deep-rooted connection to the American Civil Rights Movement. This legacy is preserved through the Queens College Civil Rights Archive, which includes the personal collection of James Forman. The institution's commitment to social justice is further immortalized in its campus landmarks, honoring those who fought for equality.
Campus Facilities and Student Life
The campus is designed to support both academic research and student well-being. Central to this is the Benjamin Rosenthal Library, which houses over 840,000 books and the Louis Armstrong archives. The library's Chaney-Schwerner-Goodman Clocktower serves as a poignant memorial to three civil rights workers murdered in 1964, including alumnus Andrew Goodman.
Specialized facilities include the Art Library and the Music Library—the largest music collection in the CUNY system—which supports the Aaron Copland School of Music. For students living on campus, the Summit Apartments, opened in 2009, provide LEED-certified sustainable housing with modern amenities, though the college remains primarily a commuter school.
Campus Environment and Access
The campus features the scenic Queens College quad and the Student Union building, which serves as the heart of student organizations and clubs.
Accessibility is a priority, with multiple public transit options including the Q20, Q44, Q25, Q17, and Q88 bus lines providing direct access to the campus.
Academic Excellence and Rankings
Queens College is recognized for its high value and contribution to social mobility. It offers a comprehensive array of degrees, including 78 undergraduate majors, over 100 master's degrees, and 20 doctoral degrees via the CUNY Graduate Center. It is also a participating school in the prestigious CUNY Macaulay Honors College.
| Ranking Body / Program | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| Forbes (Top 500 US Colleges) | 143 |
| U.S. News & World Report (Regional Public North) | 9 |
| Forbes (America's Best Value Colleges) | 34 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | 10 |
| Library and Information Studies Programs | 40 |
| Speech–Language Pathology | 72 |
Specialized Schools
The Graduate School of Library and Information Studies (GSLIS), established as a separate school in 1979, is a leader in its field, offering MLS degrees and specialized certificates in archives and youth services. Additionally, the Aaron Copland School of Music continues to be a cornerstone of the college's artistic reputation.
Athletics and Notable Alumni
The Queens College Knights compete in NCAA Division II, primarily within the East Coast Conference (ECC). They are one of only two CUNY schools to participate in NCAA Division II sports.
The college's influence extends far beyond the classroom, boasting alumni and faculty who have achieved global fame. From the comedic genius of Jerry Seinfeld and Joy Behar to the cinematic vision of Jon Favreau and the musical innovation of Robert Moog, the institution's impact is felt across arts, politics, and science.
Recent Challenges and Leadership
In recent years, the college has faced significant budgetary pressures. City government cuts in 2023 led to the loss of several faculty positions and a temporary internal hiring freeze. These financial strains coincided with leadership transitions; following the tenure of Frank H. Wu, Elizabeth Hendrey was appointed as interim president effective August 1, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the motto of Queens College?
The motto is "Discimus ut serviamus," which translates from Latin to "We learn so that we may serve."
Is Queens College a commuter school?
Yes, it is primarily a commuter school. While the Summit Apartments provide on-campus housing for approximately 500 students, the vast majority of its 19,000+ students commute.
What are some of the most highly ranked programs at Queens College?
The college is particularly strong in Library and Information Studies (ranked 40th) and Speech–Language Pathology (ranked 72nd), and it is highly regarded for its social mobility and value.
Who are some notable alumni of the college?
Notable alumni include comedian Jerry Seinfeld, actor Adrien Brody, director Jon Favreau, and inventor Robert Moog.
How can students access the campus via public transit?
The campus is accessible via the Q20, Q44, and Q25 buses on Main Street and Kissena Boulevard, as well as the Q17 and Q88 buses on the Horace Harding Expressway.