University of Rochester

Dare to differ. 

At the University of Rochester, we do just that. And so do our students. The innovative Rochester Curriculum is driven by you. Personal choice and curiosity determine your future. 

The Rochester Curriculum is flexible and reflects the true hallmarks of university life and learning: curiosity, competence, and community. There are no required subjects. Based on your unique interests and goals, you build your own education and learn what you love. You select a major in one of the three great disciplines of learning—humanities, natural sciences, or social sciences—and take a cluster of three related courses in each of the other two.

What makes Rochester different?
Your academic success is determined by more than courses or majors. During your college search process, remember this: many colleges are good, some are exceptional, but almost none offer you the freedom to create your own success. 

That freedom not only exists at the University of Rochester—it thrives. As a Rochester student—even as a first-year—you’ll have the freedom to conduct collaborative research with your classmates and professors. Research is performed in all areas, from laser energetics to brain imaging to the works of Elizabethan dramatists. Our 9:1 student-faculty ratio allows for focused investigation and in-depth learning in every field. More than 75% of students are involved in research.

Student life
The University is a community where more than 80% of undergraduates live on campus. With more than 275 student organizations ranging from cultural to political to religious to athletic, you’ll find communities of friends who share your interests and passions. 

When it’s time for recreation, students flock to the Goergen Athletic Center. The Center includes an 11,000-sq. ft. fitness facility; an indoor track and activity field; a swimming pool and diving well; numerous courts for basketball, indoor tennis, racquetball, squash, and volleyball; a state-of-the-art athletic training facility; and the Palestra, home of 23 Division III varsity teams and host to various campus events.

City of Rochester
With Lake Ontario on its northern border, the scenic Finger Lakes to the south, and more than a million people, Rochester is rated among the most livable cities in the United States. The city of Rochester is a dynamic mix of culture, commerce, and history. Cultural and recreational opportunities include museums, parks, orchestras, planetariums, theater companies, and professional sports teams.

Supportive learning environment
Rochester students get the support they need—from faculty, staff, and one another. Counselors in the Career Center are available every step of the way, helping students articulate their goals, assisting with internship and job placements, and inspiring academic and career exploration. Information and support are also available from the College Center for Advising Services, the Financial Aid Office, the Office of Minority Student Affairs, and the International Services Office. 

Academic opportunity
Undergraduates receive an extraordinarily strong education in their chosen fields. Additionally, Rochester offers many options beyond traditional coursework. Opportunities that allow our students to explore their individual interests further include Combined Degree Programs, Research and Innovation Grants, the e5 Program, Take Five Scholars Program, private lessons at the Eastman School of Music, study abroad, and undergraduate research.

Admission requirements
The University of Rochester seeks to admit students who will take advantage of its resources, be strongly motivated to do their best, and contribute to the life of the University community. An applicant’s character, extracurricular activities, job experience, academic accomplishments, and career goals are considered. There are no minimum requirements for admission. Each student’s application is reviewed using a committee process that entails a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate. The typical Rochester student ranks in the top 10% of his or her high school class, has taken two to seven AP or IB courses, has maintained a median academic unweighted GPA of 3.8, and has submitted an SAT score between 1290–1440 or an ACT score between 29–33. 

To apply, visit admissions.rochester.edu