I've heard good things mainly about NYU Film, Theater (and Musical Theater), Law, and the Galatin Division (design your own major-- though its more expensive).
If you like to stay busy, the Village can be a great place for variety. If you moreso need to live in a place thats more peaceful, secluded and campus-like, then Columbia; or try to go for one of the new midtown or uptown dorms @NYU.
Practicals. Good to Be Prepared.
Dig hard with the financial aid office (in person if necessary-- appeal to departmental reps in the financial aid office personally if you aren't satistfied with what you have). They do have the money to give.
The administrative functions of the school (payment offices, registration, etc) are very disorganized compared to other schools. Plan extra time when having to deal with those offices.
Make sure to save up as much as you can before you move to Manhattan, it costs money to do just about anything.
Dorms- Food
The rooms are a little cramped. Don't skimp on the housing, the extra grand or two added to your student loan could make your daily living situation gold. Or gold
er.
If you can manage it, try for any place but Weinstein-University Place (@ Washington Square Park). LOL. They tend to cram too many people into a cinder block room 20x10. Its worth the upgrade if affordable. Third Ave dorm is somewhat newer-contemporary compared to others in the Village area.
The security at the dorms is actually pretty good, guests need to check an ID to get in. Good to remember if you have any guests
If you need free food, check out Balducci's on 14th & 8th Ave-- awesome free samples.
With all that said (hope it doesn't sound negative), the Village is a very fun place to be. You will never be bored as long as you have the energy to get out. If you're into theater, Tisch has student theater which is pretty afforable to watch if not free.
They've cleaned up Washington Square Park considerably in the last decade, too. They have a dog run there which is a great place to meet people even if you don't have a dog.
No shortage of guys (and gals) in NY
If you plan on doing any gay nightlife, HX mag (free) is a good resource.
Hope all goes well for you. Getting an envelope with that neat little purple torch in the corner can be exciting. if you need any specifics, please feel free to PM me.