Syracuse is a major college town, primarily due to the location of Syracuse University, located on University Hill. Other large colleges located in Syracuse are two NY state University schools, the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Foresty and SUNY Upstate Medical University.

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Additionally, Le Moyne College and Onondaga Community College call Syracuse their home. A branch of SUNY's Empire State College is located in downtown Syracuse, in proximity of Bryant & Stratton College. ITT Technical Institute has a branch in the Syracuse metropolitan area. Near Syracuse are dozens of other colleges, including Cornell University, Ithaca College, Hamilton College, Utica College, and more. The constant fervor of students running to and fro gives Syracuse its vibrant, artsy, and active atmosphere.