Princeton University, one of the oldest and most respected universities in the United States, is globally renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and intellectual leadership. Located in Princeton, New Jersey, this Ivy League institution combines tradition with innovation, offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to shape the next generation of scholars, researchers, and leaders.
A Legacy of Learning
Founded in 1746, Princeton is the fourth-oldest university in the U.S. and has built a legacy of producing world-changing thinkers, from U.S. presidents and Nobel laureates to celebrated authors and groundbreaking scientists. With a student body of about 8,500 students, Princeton maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized learning experiences and mentorship.
Undergraduate Degree Programs at Princeton
Princeton’s undergraduate programs are offered through its single undergraduate college, known simply as Princeton University’s Undergraduate College. The institution grants the Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) and the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.) degrees.
Students can choose from over 35 concentrations (majors) and more than 50 minors (certificates) in a wide range of disciplines. Popular fields of study include:
- Computer Science
- Public and International Affairs
- Economics
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Politics
- Molecular Biology
Princeton encourages interdisciplinary learning, and students often combine their major with certificate programs like Environmental Studies, Robotics, African American Studies, or Finance.
One of Princeton’s distinctive features is its senior thesis requirement for most majors. This capstone project allows students to conduct original research or creative work under faculty guidance, preparing them for graduate study or professional careers.
Graduate Degree Programs
Princeton’s Graduate School offers advanced degrees in a carefully curated selection of disciplines. Unlike many large universities, Princeton does not offer degrees in law, business, or medicine. Instead, it focuses on graduate education in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
The university offers Master’s (M.A., M.S.E.) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs in areas such as:
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- History
- Architecture
- Computer Science
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
Graduate programs at Princeton are known for their academic rigor, strong mentorship, and emphasis on original research. The Ph.D. programs, in particular, are highly competitive and fully funded, including tuition, a stipend, and health benefits.
Interdisciplinary and Research Opportunities
Princeton places a high value on cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. It supports over 30 interdisciplinary centers and institutes, such as:
- The Princeton Neuroscience Institute
- Princeton Environmental Institute
- Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment
- Center for Information Technology Policy
These institutes bring together scholars from different fields to tackle complex global issues, from climate change to cybersecurity.
Students—both undergraduate and graduate—are encouraged to participate in research early in their academic journey. Through programs like the Princeton Undergraduate Research Journal and summer research internships, students work side-by-side with faculty on meaningful research projects.
Admissions Overview
Admission to Princeton is extremely selective, with undergraduate acceptance rates around 4%. Graduate admissions are also highly competitive and vary by department.
Application requirements for undergraduates typically include:
- Common Application or Coalition Application
- High school transcripts
- SAT or ACT scores (test-optional as of recent updates)
- Two teacher recommendations
- A personal essay and Princeton-specific supplemental essays
Graduate applications require:
- Academic transcripts
- GRE scores (where applicable)
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of academic purpose
- Writing samples or portfolios (for certain programs)
Conclusion
Princeton University’s degree programs offer a blend of academic excellence, rich tradition, and forward-thinking innovation. Whether you’re an undergraduate seeking a broad liberal arts education or a graduate student pursuing advanced research, Princeton provides the resources, faculty support, and intellectual community to help you thrive.