Overview
Paul Smith's College was founded in 1937, evolving from a hotel operated by Paul Smith on the site into a specialized institution focused on forestry, hospitality, and outdoor education. Located on a large forested campus in the Adirondack Park, the college has built a distinctive reputation for its applied, experiential approach to natural resource management, culinary arts, and hospitality programs. It is one of the few colleges in the country situated within a state park, giving students direct access to forests, lakes, and wilderness for fieldwork and research.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Paul Smiths, New York |
| Founded | 1937 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 85% |
| Graduation rate | 48% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $36,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $36,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $25,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 920-1120 |
| ACT range | 17-23 |
| Average GPA | 3.0 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Forestry
- Culinary Arts
- Hospitality Management
- Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences
- Adventure Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.