Clarkson University is a private research university located in Potsdam, New York. Established in 1896 as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology, the institution was founded by Thomas Clarkson's sisters and niece in his memory after he died in a quarry accident. The school evolved over time, becoming Clarkson College of Technology in 1942 and ultimately Clarkson University in 1984.
Key information about Clarkson University:
1. Location: Clarkson University's main campus is in Potsdam, a small town in northern New York State. The university also has additional locations, such as the Capital Region Campus in Schenectady, New York, and the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries in Beacon, New York.
2. Academics: Clarkson offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in various fields, with a strong emphasis on engineering, business, and science. It comprises four schools and colleges: the Institute for a Sustainable Environment, the School of Arts & Sciences, the Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering, and the David D. Reh School of Business. Popular majors at Clarkson include mechanical engineering, business, and civil engineering.
3. Size and Demographics: As of September 2021, the university had a student population of around 4,300, with about 3,100 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 14:1, which allows for a more personalized learning experience.
4. Research: Clarkson University is known for its research activities, particularly in areas such as advanced materials, biotechnology, energy, and environmental science. The university has several research centers and institutes that facilitate interdisciplinary research, innovation, and collaboration.
5. Student Life: The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, with over 200 student clubs and organizations catering to various interests. Clarkson's location in the North Country also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and canoeing.
6. Athletics: Clarkson University's athletic teams, known as the Golden Knights, compete in NCAA Division III for most sports. However, the men's and women's ice hockey teams compete at the Division I level in the ECAC Hockey league. The university offers a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and cross-country.
7. Career Services and Outcomes: Clarkson has a strong focus on preparing students for professional success, with a high rate of job placement and graduate school admission. The university's Career Center offers resources such as career counseling, internships, and job placement assistance. According to the university, 95% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate programs within six months of graduation.
8. Financial Aid: Clarkson University offers various scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to help students finance their education. The university is committed to making education accessible and affordable for all students.
9. Notable Alumni: Clarkson has produced numerous successful graduates in various fields, including business, engineering, and science. Some notable alumni include former CEO and president of Lockheed Martin, Robert J. Stevens, and CEO of Corning Incorporated, Wendell P. Weeks.
In summary, Clarkson University is a private research institution with a strong focus on engineering, business, and science. The university provides a well-rounded education, emphasizing research, innovation, and career preparation, and offers students various opportunities for extracurricular involvement and personal growth.
