Best Area Studies Schools in New York

New York has 7 colleges offering Area Studies programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 112 recent graduates. Graduates earn $34,163 on average within two years, roughly in line with the national average of $32,868.

School choice matters significantly: Cornell University graduates earn $44,170 while New York University graduates earn $21,052 — a $23,118 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

7
Schools in NY
$34,163
NY Avg. Earnings
$32,868
National Avg.
98
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Area Studies in New York

Public Schools (1)
$31,038
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (6)
$34,684
avg. 2yr earnings

Private schools produce $3,646 more in early earnings on average, but typically cost more. Compare net price to determine which offers better ROI.

Area Studies Schools in New York, Ranked by Earnings

#1
C

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · Private

$44,170
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $30,086
Graduates: 18
Acceptance: 8.2%
#2
C

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private

$43,798
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 4.2%
#3
B

Barnard College

New York, NY · Private

$39,648
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $42,983
Graduates: 32
Acceptance: 8.0%
#4
F

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · Private

$37,928
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $38,846
Graduates: 43
Acceptance: 56.3%
#5
S

State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY · Public

$31,038
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 58.7%
#6
S

Skidmore College

Saratoga Springs, NY · Private

$21,508
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 22.9%
#7
N

New York University

New York, NY · Private

$21,052
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $44,822
Graduates: 19
Acceptance: 9.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Area Studies in New York?
Cornell University ranks #1 for Area Studies in New York with median graduate earnings of $44,170 within two years of graduation. There are 7 schools offering Area Studies programs in the state.
How much do Area Studies graduates earn in New York?
Area Studies graduates in New York earn an average of $34,163 within two years of graduation. This is 4% above the national average of $32,868 for this major.
What is the hardest Area Studies school to get into in New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York is the most selective Area Studies program in New York with an acceptance rate of 4.2%. The average acceptance rate across Area Studies programs in the state is 24.0%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Area Studies in New York?
In New York, private Area Studies programs produce average earnings of $34,684 vs $31,038 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 1 public and 6 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in New York

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.