Best colleges in New York for undergrad?

As someone who's always dreamed of studying in New York, I'm curious about the best colleges in the state. What schools are considered top-tier for undergraduates, and are they known for specific programs or majors?

New York state is home to a number of excellent colleges and universities known for their undergraduate programs. Here are several that are often recognized as top-tier institutions:

1. Columbia University: As an Ivy League institution, Columbia is nationally renowned for its rigorous academic programs. Notable areas of study include Business, Engineering, International Relations, and Journalism, though the Journalism program is only offered at the graduate level.

2. New York University (NYU): Known for its vibrant urban campus in Manhattan, NYU has strong programs across several fields. These include Business, Film, Theater, and Law, as well as a highly-ranked medical program for graduate students.

3. Cornell University: Located in Ithaca, this Ivy League university is famed for numerous programs, including Engineering, Business, Hotel Administration, and Industrial Labor Relations.

4. University of Rochester: A strong research institution with emphasis on Medicine, Music, and Engineering.

5. Barnard College: An all-women's college affiliated with Columbia University, offering a liberal arts focused education.

6. Cooper Union: Known for its Art, Architecture, and Engineering programs as well as its selective enrollment.

7. Colgate University: A small liberal arts college with strengths in the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Environmental Science.

Remember, however, that the "best" college can depend heavily on your specific goals and needs, including your desired major, learning style, and campus culture preferences. It's important to do thorough research and, if possible, visit the campuses (or avail of virtual campus tours) in order to make the right choice.