Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Quick Facts
“Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν (Greek)”("Ever to Excel")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Boston College
Boston College: Where Jesuit tradition meets rigorous academics and collegiate Gothic charm.
Nestled in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, just six miles west of downtown Boston, Boston College stands as a distinguished private Catholic Jesuit research university. Founded in 1863, BC is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, spirited campus life, and a beautiful main campus featuring some of North America's earliest collegiate Gothic architecture. It's a vibrant community where students are encouraged to "Ever to Excel," embodying its Greek motto, "Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν."
Boston College's rich history began with its establishment by the Society of Jesus, driven by the vision of Jesuit priest John McElroy to provide an educational institution for the Irish Catholic immigrant population. Initially located in Boston's South End, the university relocated most of its campus to Chestnut Hill in 1907. Its early curriculum was deeply rooted in the Jesuit Ratio Studiorum, emphasizing classics, philosophy, and theology, fostering a tradition of intellectual rigor and moral development that continues to this day.
As a "Research 1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production" university, Boston College offers a comprehensive range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across its nine colleges and schools. Beyond academics, BC is celebrated for its highly competitive athletic programs; the Boston College Eagles compete in NCAA Division I, primarily within the Atlantic Coast Conference, with their men's ice hockey team boasting an impressive five national championships. This blend of strong academics, a supportive community, and athletic prowess creates a well-rounded and engaging student experience.
The university prides itself on a distinguished alumni network, including governors, ambassadors, members of Congress, scholars, writers, and professional athletes, featuring numerous Rhodes, Truman, and Fulbright scholars. Prospective students and families will find Boston College to be an institution dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a profound sense of purpose, all within a picturesque and historically rich setting.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1863 by the Society of Jesus, a private Catholic Jesuit research university.
- ✦Classified as a "Research 1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production" university.
- ✦Main campus features some of the earliest examples of collegiate Gothic architecture in North America.
- ✦Motto: "Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν" (Greek), meaning "Ever to Excel."
- ✦Athletic teams, the Eagles, compete in NCAA Division I, with the men's ice hockey team winning five national championships.
- ✦Hosts over 15,000 total students, including 9,654 undergraduates (Fall 2024).
- ✦Alumni include 3 Rhodes, 22 Truman, and 171 Fulbright scholars.
Timeline
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