The Cooper Union: History, Founder, and How to Get In
The Cooper Union: History, Founder, and How to Get In
Hello, this is Maegami from the blog Goddess’ Bangs.Today, I’d like to introduce one of New York’s most prestigious universities: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, commonly known as The Cooper Union. This unique school is famous for offering top-quality education in art, architecture, and engineering, and historically, it was tuition-free.
Admission is extremely competitive, making it one of the most selective schools in the U.S.
What is The Cooper Union?
Located in Manhattan’s East Village, The Cooper Union was founded in 1859 by Peter Cooper, a businessman, inventor, and philanthropist. His vision was to create a place where anyone, regardless of background, could access higher education.
Peter Cooper’s daughter, Sarah Cooper Hewitt, later established the Cooper Hewitt Museum, further extending the family’s impact on arts and design.
Peter Cooper’s Vision
Peter Cooper grew up in poverty and never had access to a full education, an experience that shaped his lifelong mission. He dedicated his success in industry and invention to creating a school where education was free and open to all.
His vision is similar to Andrew Carnegie, who also rose from poverty to become one of America’s great philanthropists.
The Cooper Union in U.S. History
The school is not only an academic institution but also a place of historic importance. In 1860, Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous anti-slavery speech at Cooper Union’s Great Hall. This powerful speech helped him secure the presidency. Since then, the Great Hall has been a gathering place for many important lectures, debates, and cultural moments.
Fusion of Art, Architecture, and Engineering
Cooper Union has three main schools:
- Art – known for its avant-garde curriculum and notable alumni.
- Architecture – offering a highly respected program.
- Engineering – blending theory and practice in innovative ways.
This combination makes Cooper Union a hub where art and science meet.
How to Apply to The Cooper Union
Admission to Cooper Union is highly selective. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Application
All applications are submitted online via the official Cooper Union website. Depending on the program, additional materials such as portfolios may be required.
2. Entrance Exams
Each school has different requirements:
- Art: portfolio and creative assessment.
- Architecture: portfolio, essays, possibly interviews.
- Engineering: academic exams, essays, and interviews.
3. Portfolio Submission
For Art and Architecture, a high-quality portfolio is essential. This should showcase your creativity, technical skills, and unique style.
4. Interviews
Some programs require interviews, giving students the opportunity to explain their motivation, vision, and how they plan to use their education after graduation.
5. Scholarships & Tuition
Originally, all students received a full scholarship, making tuition free. While that is no longer the case, Cooper Union still offers generous financial aid and scholarships, making it more affordable than most private universities.
Conclusion
The Cooper Union remains one of the most respected universities in New York, with a deep history rooted in educational equality, innovation, and cultural impact. For students passionate about art, architecture, and engineering, it offers a challenging but rewarding path.
Preparing for admission requires dedication, but if you’re ready to take on the challenge, The Cooper Union can be life-changing.
