New York University School of Professional Studies

The New York University School of Professional Studies ( also known as SPS ) is one of the schools and colleges that compose New York University. Founded in 1934, the school offers undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs. The school's main campus is located at 7 East 12th Street, New York at NYU's Washington Square main campus.

The School of Professional Studies was established in 1934 as the Division of General Education (DGE). During the Depression year, when almost 25% of the U.S. workforce was unemployed, the DGE responded with training programs for new social workers in the Temporary Emergency Relief Association, the city’s public welfare agency, and the Home Relief Bureau. As the city emerged from the Depression, DGE created the Washington Square Writing Center, the Center for Graphic Design, and began its first art workshops.

Shortly after World War II, in response to increasing demand for skills, training, and for-credit courses, DGE developed, among other new programs, a Certificate in General Education that helped veterans fulfill requirements under the G.I. Bill. DGE also formulated the Management Institute to focus on courses for business and industry.

In 1954, the School is renamed the Division of General Education and Extension Services (DGEES) to reflect the full scope of its activities. The School offered courses at 19 locations in the tri-state area. Enrollment surpassed any other individual school at NYU, and income reaches $2 million for the first time. New departments were created: Office of Special Services to Business and Industry, and the Liberal Arts in Extension program.

DGEES is on the forefront of issues in a decade marked by tenuous political times and a focus on social and economic change. The 1960s bring the creation of the Office of Community Service Programs; the Division of Business and Management; and new associate degree offerings in the liberal arts, business, public service, and physical therapy, which lay the groundwork for the future Paul McGhee Division for adult learners returning to college to earn a degree.

In 1971, the School is renamed the School of Continuing Education (SCE). New diploma programs are created in business, data processing, computer technology, and systems analysis. The Institute for Paralegal Studies is created. The General Studies Program is instituted to offer two years of instruction to college-age students. A boom in the real estate market drives rapid expansion of the Real Estate Institute, which still thrives today.

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