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University & Campus

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

📍 30 Cooper Sq, New York, NY, USA
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3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, New York
Category
University & Campus
Duration
1 hour
Address
30 Cooper Sq, New York, NY, USA
Coordinates
40.7300, -73.9900

Introduction

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, located at Cooper Square in Manhattan's East Village, was founded in 1859 by industrialist and inventor Peter Cooper. It is one of the oldest private higher education institutions in the United States, renowned for its schools of architecture, art, and engineering. The most legendary aspect is its full-tuition scholarship tradition: from founding through 2014, all admitted students received full scholarships, embodying Peter Cooper's progressive vision that education should be open to all capable individuals. The Foundation Building, built in 1859 and designed by Fred A. Petersen in Italian Renaissance style, features a basement round lecture hall where Abraham Lincoln delivered a pivotal 1860 presidential campaign address. Cooper Union has produced countless artists, architects, and engineers, including Nobel laureate John Hebrandy. Today, the school remains a vital center for New York art and science education, hosting public lectures, art exhibitions, and architecture shows, continuing Peter Cooper's educational ideal.

✨ Highlights

1
Full Scholarship Tradition
Full-tuition scholarships for all students through 2014
2
Peter Cooper Founding
Founded in 1859 by industrialist Peter Cooper
3
Lincoln Speech
Lincoln's 1860 presidential campaign speech in the round lecture hall
4
Three Schools
Renowned schools of architecture, art, and engineering
5
Foundation Building
1859 Italian Renaissance main building
6
Public Programs
Regular lectures and exhibitions open to the public

🛈 Practical Info

→Location:Cooper Square, East Village, Manhattan
→Viewing:Exterior viewable; exhibitions and lectures open to public
→Access:Metro 6 to Astor Pl, 3-minute walk
→Duration:30 minutes exterior; 1-2 hours for exhibitions

💡 Tips

• Check the school website for public lectures and exhibitions
• Italian Renaissance facade is photogenic
• Combine with East Village cultural venues and Astor Place
• Learn about Peter Cooper's vision and Lincoln's speech

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art?

Check the school website for public lectures and exhibitions Italian Renaissance facade is photogenic

How long should I spend at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art?

A typical visit takes 1 hour.

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