Cortland vs Stony Brook

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between SUNY Cortland and Stony Brook University?

  SUNY Cortland is a mid-sized, primarily undergraduate-focused institution known for its strong teacher education and physical education programs. It offers a close-knit campus community and a more traditional college experience. Stony Brook University, on the other hand, is a large, research-intensive university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including strong STEM fields. It's known for its research opportunities and diverse student body.

• Which school is better for students interested in teacher education?

  SUNY Cortland is widely recognized for its exceptional teacher education programs. It has a long-standing reputation and a strong network of alumni in the education field. While Stony Brook offers education programs, Cortland's focus and resources in this area are generally considered superior.

• Which university is stronger in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields?

  Stony Brook University is significantly stronger in STEM fields. It's a leading research institution with extensive resources, state-of-the-art facilities, and renowned faculty in various STEM disciplines. Cortland offers STEM programs, but they are not as comprehensive or research-oriented as those at Stony Brook.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  SUNY Cortland offers a more traditional, smaller campus environment with a strong sense of community. It's located in a classic college town. Stony Brook has a larger, more diverse campus with a wider range of activities and resources. It's located in a suburban setting, offering a blend of campus life and access to nearby cities.

• What are the typical class sizes at each university?

  SUNY Cortland generally has smaller class sizes, especially in upper-level courses, allowing for more personalized attention from professors. Stony Brook, being a larger university, tends to have larger introductory classes, but class sizes decrease in more specialized courses.

• Which school offers more research opportunities for undergraduates?

  Stony Brook University offers significantly more research opportunities for undergraduates due to its status as a major research institution. Students can participate in research projects across various disciplines, working alongside leading faculty members. While Cortland offers some research opportunities, they are not as extensive.

• How do the costs of attending SUNY Cortland and Stony Brook compare?

  Tuition and fees are generally similar for in-state students at both SUNY Cortland and Stony Brook. However, overall cost can vary depending on factors like room and board, personal expenses, and financial aid packages. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date cost information and to explore available financial aid options.

• What is the student body like at each university?

  SUNY Cortland has a predominantly undergraduate student body with a strong representation of students from New York State. Stony Brook has a more diverse student body, including a significant number of graduate students and international students. It draws students from across the United States and around the world.

• Which school is closer to New York City?

  Stony Brook University is closer to New York City than SUNY Cortland. Stony Brook is located on Long Island, approximately 60 miles east of Manhattan, making it relatively easy to access the city for cultural events, internships, and other opportunities. Cortland is located in central New York, further from the city.

• What are the popular majors at each university?

  At SUNY Cortland, popular majors include education (physical education, childhood education, etc.), recreation, and communication studies. At Stony Brook University, popular majors include biology, engineering, computer science, business, and health sciences.

• How competitive is the admissions process at each university?

  Stony Brook University is generally more competitive in terms of admissions than SUNY Cortland. Stony Brook has a higher average SAT/ACT score and GPA for admitted students. However, both universities consider a range of factors in their admissions decisions, including academic record, extracurricular activities, and essays.

• What kind of career services and support do each of the universities offer?

  Both SUNY Cortland and Stony Brook offer career services to help students with internships, job searching, resume writing, and interview skills. Stony Brook, given its size and research focus, may have a broader network of employers and research opportunities available to its students. Cortland's career services are tailored to its specific programs, particularly in education and related fields.