The Hunter College Senate, chartered in 1970, is the principal governance body of the College that holds a charter with the Board of Trustees. It has authority to determine College policy on all matters not reserved by the New York State Education Law or the Bylaws of the Board of Trustees for the President of Hunter College. Curriculum and related education matters; academic requirements and standards of academic standing; development, review and planning of facilities, staff and fiscal requirements; evaluation of teaching, and safeguarding the academic freedom of all members of the Hunter College community are under its jurisdiction. The Senate comprises 202 elected members (Senate Membership List) from among the faculty and students, and members of the administration appointed by the President. It elects a chair, a vice-chair, secretary and chair of the Evening Council who form the Administrative Committee.

The Senate has 15 standing committees and various special and ad hoc committees. The Charter for a Governance of Hunter College ensures broad representation on Senate Committees by designating equal numbers of students and faculty or by specifying equal membership from the divisions and professional schools. Members of the administration hold ex officio membership on all committees. A provision extending Senate Committee membership beyond the elected senators further broadens the base of participation. Faculty and students who are interested in serving on a Senate Committee should fill out a Senate Committee Preference Form, which is available in the Senate Office, Room 1018 Hunter East.