Why Attend The Clarkson School?

Skip the Wait, Start the Hustle
- TCS offers an inspiring, one of a kind experience that immerses students in college life while ensuring a safe and supportive environment
- TCS students make a substantial impact on campus, excelling academically and as leaders
- TCS students gain a support net and huge competitive advantage
- TCS students have access to the full Clarkson University Experience
“You have the chance to build a community with other students who truly want to learn. The result is an amazing experience in which you can, if you choose, break down the barriers in your mind that are holding you back from reaching your full potential.”
Emily McGrail '24, The Clarkson School (read her blog post)
Whether from a big city or a small town, Clarkson School students are united by a drive to innovate and solve real-world problems at the intersection of science, engineering, mathematics, and technology.
With dedicated housing and personalized mentorship, they quickly form a close-knit, supportive community rooted in shared curiosity, exploration, and the exchange of bold ideas.
In Price Hall, you’ll live among fellow Clarkson School students—many of whom ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school classes—who will challenge and inspire you.
This dedicated Living-Learning Community (LLC) fosters strong connections through field trips, community programs, and monthly family-style dinners.
We provide a structured transition that balances independence with responsibility, setting the foundation for a successful college experience. Our close-knit community forms lifelong friendships and keeps alumni connected well beyond their time on campus.
Clarkson School students are known for their drive, leadership, and academic excellence. Professors value their active engagement, and it shows—our students consistently earn some of the highest first-year GPAs, with over half achieving Dean’s List or Presidential Scholar honors each semester.
You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for early entry into the selective Clarkson Honors Program, including a unique five-week pre-frosh summer experience where you’ll be paired with a faculty mentor and conduct original research.
Though they represent just 5% of the student body, Clarkson School students earn more than 15% of the prestigious CREW and University Recognition Day awards—proof that they blend in seamlessly while continuing to stand out.
At The Clarkson School, we’re committed to developing the whole person. Our first-year fall seminar course (PE100) helps students build essential personal, professional, and college transition skills.
Gain next-level support for college applications and career readiness through workshops focused on essay writing, resume building, interview preparation, and effective communication.
Our dedicated tutors in math, science, and other subjects provide personalized support tailored to each student’s needs, ensuring a more effective and confident learning experience.
Expand your horizons by enrolling in UNIV399: Global Experience, a class that offers the option to travel abroad during spring break to exciting destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, and Greece.
Whether you need academic support, professional development, or want to get involved, Clarkson University offers access to a wide range of resources, including the Career Center, Student Success Center, University Libraries, the Innovation Hub, and employer networking events.
Since 1978, The Clarkson School has graduated over 2,000 students. Join a global community of alumni who are making their mark as leaders and innovators across healthcare, media, academia, technology, politics, and beyond.
Clarkson School students choose their course of study from Clarkson University’s extensive selection of industry-relevant programs, gaining access to faculty-led research, on-campus clubs and organizations, and competitive projects. Many also explore potential career paths through internships, co-ops, and immersive global experiences.
Areas of Study
With over 89 programs across business, engineering, arts and sciences, healthcare, interdisciplinary certificates, and exploratory options, you’ll take a full course load of 15 to 18 credit hours each semester. Challenge yourself further by joining the Honors Program or cross-registering at other nearby colleges and universities to broaden your academic horizons.
Research
Undergraduates—including Clarkson School students—are actively involved in research alongside faculty mentors. Dive into projects spanning engineering, science, technology, healthcare, business, and sustainable development, employing an interdisciplinary approach to innovation and discovery.
Career Preparation
Add “intern” to your list of achievements as you explore various fields and career pathways. The Kevin ‘81 and Annie Parker Career Center offers comprehensive career development support.
Collaborate with fellow Clarkson University students on SPEED teams, experience entrepreneurship, or experiment with media production and prototyping tools at Clarkson Ignite, the university’s premier innovation hub. Gain global perspective through the UNIV399 Global Experience course or other study abroad programs.
Hear From Our Former Students
From more advanced courses to a community of driven, like-minded peers, understand why former students kick-started their college journey at The Clarkson School.
Get A Head Start on Your Future
You see yourself building tomorrow’s systems, aircraft and buildings, advancing patient care delivery, driving business success or uncovering transformative scientific discoveries. The Clarkson School starts you on this path through transferable college credits, real-world experiences and guidance as you think about what’s next.
Earn Your High School Diploma
Align your Clarkson School course load with your high school graduation requirements to receive your diploma on schedule — or even a semester in advance.
Earn College Credit
Clarkson School students finish the program with at least 30 credit hours of transferable courses, in addition to credit from AP exams completed during their high school career. Students apply these credits to earn their bachelor’s degree at Clarkson or another college or university.
Guidance As You Apply to Colleges
Sixty-five percent of Clarkson School students opt to continue their studies at Clarkson University. Wherever you see yourself, our staff assist you during the college application process.
Financial Aid
As a Clarkson School student, you’re eligible for federal, state and university aid, including dedicated grants and scholarships.
Where Our Students Go
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
American University
Boston College
Boston University
Brown University
Carnegie Mellon University
Case Western Reserve University
Columbia University
Cornell University
Dartmouth College
Georgetown University
McGill University
New York University
Princeton University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Stanford University
Syracuse University
The University of Chicago
University of Pennsylvania
Yale University