Alfred University

Alfred University is a private nonsectarian university located in the rural foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in Alfred, New York state. It is one of the first coeducational institutions in the country. The university was started in 1836, as the Select School by Seventh Day Baptists. Later, in 1843, the institution became Alfred Academy, and in the 1850s, it enrolled its first black student from Haiti and two Native American students, thereby becoming the second college in the nation as a racially integrated one. In 1857, the name was changed to Alfred University. Alfred University offers more than 60 academic programs leading from a bachelors degree to the doctorate in its five academic units - College of Business, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Art and Design, School of Engineering, and the Graduate School. This small university has earned reputation for its excellent academics. It is listed in U.S. News and World Report’s annual college guide, “America’s Best Colleges,” as one of the top 15 master’s level institutes in the North. The institution has been ranked No.1 in the nation by the magazine for its ceramics M.F.A program. In addition to academics, the friendly, vibrant living/learning community has opportunities for athletics and recreational activities. The Powell Campus Center, a 60,000-square-foot facility, serves as the core for academic and social activities. There are two libraries – the Herrick Memorial Library and the Scholes Library of Ceramics on campus. Halls ranging from corridor-style to suites and apartments are available for residential purposes.