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Clarkson: North of Ordinary

In this new video spot, step inside the Clarkson experience — where collaborative student teams, cutting-edge research labs, Golden Knights athletics and our iconic North Country campus come together to create something bigger than a degree.

At Clarkson, you don’t just attend college. You make an impact from day one. Hands-on learning. A culture built on “never you, never me — always us.” A mindset that values progress over perfection.

Whether you're exploring colleges or you're a proud alum who still carries that Golden Knight spirit, this is your invitation to experience what sets Clarkson apart. We are Clarkson University. And what we do is always North of Ordinary.

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A PLACE LIKE NO OTHER

We’re a tight-knight community located near the Adirondack Park and its scenic mountains, waterways, and Olympics recreation. Our unique setting inspires us, the size of our community propels us—serving as a catalyst to meet the needs of our students by tailoring our approach to each individual.

Getting to Know Us Starts Here

Main Campus

Clarkson's main campus, located in the quintessential college town of Potsdam, New York, is nestled on 640 wooded and waterfront acres.

Explore Main Campus

Accepted Students Days

Have you been accepted for fall 2026 entry to Clarkson? Congratulations! Now plan to visit during events meant just for you.

Explore Accepted Students Days

Save On Summer Classes

This summer, Clarkson will again be offering a special summer discount to help undergraduate students stay on track with their academic and career goals. Clarkson students and eligible undergraduate students from other higher education institutions are eligible for the special waiver. Options include both on-campus courses in Potsdam and several courses offered online.

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Finding Solutions For A Better Future

We are a community of researchers, scholars, and students from a variety of disciplines. Together, we discover innovative solutions to today’s greatest challenges.

Academics and Research Research Focus Areas

Clarkson Researchers Receive $1 Million for Water Treatment Projects

Clarkson University has received $1 million in foundation money to create new water treatment systems for homes. The funding will support two projects focused on improving how wastewater is cleaned and reused at the household level. The projects are led by faculty from Clarkson’s Civil and Environmental Engineering Department.

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Clarkson Makes Golden Impression at Olympics

From the ice arenas of Milan to the sliding track in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Clarkson University’s presence was unmistakable at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Eleven current and former Golden Knights represented their countries on one of sport’s grandest stages, continuing Clarkson’s proud Olympic tradition and reinforcing the university’s reputation as a winter athletics powerhouse.

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Time Called on Forever Chemicals

A company born from Clarkson University research is helping solve one of the world’s toughest water pollution problems: PFAS, often called “forever chemicals.”

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360 Degrees of Clarkson

It's almost as good as being here! Take a 360° virtual tour of our University and immerse yourself in the experience of being a Golden Knight -- visit dorms, check out dining areas, and venture into the outdoor beauty of our campus located between the mighty St. Lawrence River and the majestic Adirondack Mountains.

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Clarkson A 'Best Value' School, Tops For Engineering

Clarkson University has once again been recognized for delivering strong value in higher education, earning a place among the top 55 Best Value National Universities in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Clarkson is also ranked among the top 145 National Universities, and is also a top 115 Best Undergraduate Engineering program.

Return on Investment

97% University Placement Rate - Class of 2024 within 6 months of graduation in their chosen field

97%

University Placement Rate - Class of 2024 within 6 months of graduation in their chosen field

Visit our award winning Career Center

$82,900 average early career salary (0-5 years) for Clarkson graduates 

$82,900

average early career salary (0-5 years) for Clarkson graduates

Check out our incredible salary statistics at Payscale's website

Top 25 Best Career Services, According to the Princeton Review's Best Value Colleges for 2023

Top 25

Best Career Services, According to the Princeton Review's Best Value Colleges for 2023

Read Princeton Review's Best Value Colleges for 2023 Report

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