Designated in the top 7 % of universities for high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of higher education, Long Island University (LIU) has been chalking up awards and distinctions over the last few years.
Named a best northeastern university by The Princeton Review, LIU has been designated a Center of Excellence in Life Sciences by Dassault Systèmes. Its School of Business was named to The Princeton Review’s list of The Best Business Schools for 17 consecutive years and its musical theatre program has been ranked in the top 30 in the nation. In addition to being back-to-back NEC Commissioner’s Cup winners, LIU has recently received a $10 million investment from New York State for a new College of Science Research facility.
Offering 230 degree and certificate programs at its Brookville and Brooklyn campuses, the university has stayed true to its mission since its founding 97 years ago: to provide excellence and access in private higher education to those who seek to expand their knowledge and prepare themselves for meaningful educated lives and for service to their communities and the world.
At the university’s helm for the past decade, President Dr. Kimberly Cline strives to bring innovative programming and initiatives to elevate LIU to the ranks of the top 50 research universities in the United States.
“It is not about competing with other universities: It is about developing programs that are relevant and unique, while enhancing economic development in New York,” Cline says.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Stanford University, University of California and the University of Miami are examples of private universities that have developed stellar academics, strong research, inclusive student life and competitive sports.
“This model has not been replicated in the tristate area,” Cline says, “Our strategic plan focuses on academics, research and a strong tradition of campus life and competitive Division 1 sports.”
Students at LIU can take advantage of being in the global center of New York. From finance to theater, music to sports, technology to entrepreneurship, education to health professions, there is no better location in the United States in which to study, secure internships and have a strong career.
A personal success coach assigned to each student is key to their professional achievement.
Citing one accounting student who secured 11 different internships and 18 job offers, Cline noted the significant advantage students have attending college near New York City.
Students in the musical theatre program have the advantage of being close to Broadway and the New York theater scene: a true recipe for success for many. A number of graduates have been leads in notable Broadway productions.
SOLID RELATIONSHIPS = EXEMPLARY OPPORTUNITIES
LIU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, one of four veterinary colleges in the northeast, joins Cornell, Tufts and UPenn to fill a vital need in the area.
The university continues its strong relationship with Dassault, whose advanced technology is helping LIU expand research and enhance technology programs such as computer science, artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics.
“We received approval by ABET for the first digital engineering program in the country,” says Cline, referring to the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
A unique collaboration with music mogul Jay-Z, LIU’s Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment offers a number of degrees, including vocal performance, music technology and sports management. Competitive student internships are available throughout the music and sports industries.
Led by Tweed Roosevelt, a great-grandson of Theodore Roosevelt, The Roosevelt School’s mission is to foster civic engagement and, as its name implies, the Global Service Institute, run by Rita Cosby, produces citizens engaged in important roles of global service.
AT THE FOREFRONT OF RESEARCH
As one of two universities on Long Island in the top 7 percent of research institutions in the country, Long Island University has set its sights on elevating from an R2 research institution to R1 – the highest level of research recognition.
“It’s based on a formula done by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, which Is the certifying classification system,” Cline says, noting that you must show that you’re engaged in relevant research and innovation, as demonstrated by LIU’s veterinary and pharmacy schools.
Collaborating with the Baylor College of Medicine, LIU is developing digital organs that will transform healthcare and aid in the treatment of diseases of major organs.
If a new drug is developed, labs at LIU’s pharmacy school can help determine the best mode of delivery, whether it be orally, intravenously or through a patch.
“We were the first pharmacy school in New York and the second in the country,” says Cline, adding that they’re expanding the pharmacy school and veterinary research capacities and adding accelerator space for innovation.
COMMITMENT TO EQUITY IN EDUCATION
One unwavering goal of the university is to make education more affordable. By quadrupling its endowment over the last decade and holding tuition adjustments to 2% annually, LIU has become one of the most affordable institutions in the country.
The Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment is committed to 25% of each class graduating debt free by awarding Roc Nation Hope Scholarships to talented students who are unable to afford college.
“We are grateful to be working with Roc Nation, a company that is committed to helping students achieve their dream of graduating from college,” says Cline, adding, “We align with individuals and companies who want to make education stronger and the world a better place.”
Many successful leaders have graduated from Long Island University.
Ray Dalio, LIU Class of ’71, founder of Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, who is one of the wealthiest Americans, recently spent hours on campus talking to students. Other notable graduates include: Charles Zegar, co-founder of Bloomberg LP; Sarabeth Levine, founder of Sarabeth’s; Alfred Kahn, founder of 4Kids Entertainment; Howard Lorber, CEO of Vector Group, Douglas Elliman and Nathan’s Famous; children’s book author Rose Rossner; Gary Winnick, visionary entrepreneur and CEO of Winnick & Company; and Winifred Mack, former senior vice president of health systems operations at Northwell Health and current executive dean of health professions and nursing at Long Island University.
Moody’s & S&P’s recent upgrade of the university to an A rating is part of what Cline sees as an institution moving in the right direction.
Says Cline, “We have a committed team that cares about the university, our students, and providing a high-quality academic experience.”
