State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry

State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry ( SUNY ESF) is an educational institution of a state type in America, which has been actively engaged in academic and scientific activities since the 1911 in America. Now the main building of the university is located in the city of Syracuse in a small urban campus.

The university is not big in size. About 3000 people can study here annually. International exchange programs are available to students and faculty.

Education at ESF is built on a practice-oriented approach: a significant portion of classes takes place in laboratories, studios, and in the field. Students also participate in research, internships, and study abroad programs.

Field training is mandatory for a number of programs — for example, some courses are held at the Cranberry Lake biological station during the summer period. The small size of the university ensures close interaction between students and faculty — recognized experts in their fields.

The academic structure includes eight departments and covers several levels of study:

• Bachelor's degree: 23 programs, 29 specialized additional tracks,
• Junior college programs: three associate-level programs, including on the Ranger School campus,
• Master's and doctoral programs: advanced degrees in six areas, including professional Master of Professional Studies programs,
• Joint programs: accelerated 3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy program with Upstate Medical University, cooperation with Cornell University,
• Online learning: bachelor's degree in sustainable management and certificate programs.

ESF is regularly noted in rankings as a Best Value School and one of the most affordable universities in terms of cost.

The university conducts active research with significant funding: in 2026, ESF received $23 million in capital funding and an additional $10 million for the upcoming year, as well as a record $7.5 million from the state Environmental Fund to support research and programs.

• ESF — the only higher education institution in the United States fully dedicated to the study of the environment,
• The history of wildlife research dates back to the founding of Roosevelt Wild Life Station in 1919,
• The university enrolls students from more than 40 countries around the world,
• Sustainable development is part of the institutional mission: the campus is oriented toward eco-friendly solutions and transportation.

The Syracuse campus features the modern student residence Centennial Hall, with off-campus housing placement services also available.

On-campus residents have access to meal plans at student dining halls.

Student life at ESF includes numerous clubs, student organizations, and opportunities for leadership and volunteering. Students are actively engaged in extracurricular activities, exchange programs, and internships.

A significant part of the education takes place outside the classroom: in field research, expeditions, and practical training at the university's biological stations, as well as at joint events with Syracuse University.

In the past year, the university has consistently won its right to rank among the top of the best universities in the world.

The best conditions have been created for high school students - there is access to a large scientific library. Foreign students can get a place in a modern hostel. The university is a member of academic groups and associations, including the State University of New York (SUNY) system.

The academic year traditionally consists of two semesters; study is available both in-person and online.

Upon enrollment, a deposit is made to reserve a place; the following are paid separately:

• Accommodation and meals,
• Medical insurance, mandatory for all full-time students,
• Study materials,
• Personal expenses.

ESF graduates are in demand in the job market: in some fields, such as ecology and wildlife management, the employment rate for master's and doctoral graduates is close to 100% shortly after completing their studies.

Graduates work in federal and state agencies, research institutions, private consulting firms, and non-governmental organizations both in the United States and abroad.

Each year, a special admissions committee recruits students based on the exams passed by each applicant and their past academic performance. At the time of admission, the competition among apllicants is not so high. Up to two people simultaneously apply for the place of each student at the university. At the same time, both local residents and foreign students can enter the university on the same conditions.

Tuition fee in SUNY ESF

Traditionally for America, the academic year consists of two semesters. Tuition at this university is paid, but each student can save a little by receiving a scholarship for good academic performance.  During the course, students can choose the most convenient system for themselves - in person or remotely.

The university offers several forms of financial support: scholarships and grants, student employment programs, educational loans, and deferred tuition payment plans. International students are not eligible for federal and state need-based aid, but may apply for merit-based scholarships, assistantship positions, and graduate fellowships.

A total of approximately 52 scholarships are available, the majority of which are awarded on the basis of academic merit.

• Guardianship services during the studies
• Student supervision