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Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν (Greek)”("Ever to Excel")

1863
Founded
Private research university
Type
9,865
Total Students
9,654
Undergrad
5,072
Graduate
$3.8B
Endowment
(2024)
$68K
Tuition (In-State)
$68K
Tuition (Out-State)
$40K
Avg Net Price
16%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Graduation Rate
6-year
95%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: William P. Leahy

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Boston College

Boston College: A Jesuit Research Powerhouse with Gothic Grandeur.

Nestled in the picturesque Chestnut Hill, just six miles from downtown Boston, Boston College stands as a distinguished private Catholic Jesuit research university with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1863 by the Society of Jesus, Boston College initially served the educational needs of the Irish Catholic immigrant community, a testament to its foundational mission of service and intellectual pursuit. Today, it proudly upholds its motto, 'Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν' or 'Ever to Excel,' fostering a vibrant intellectual environment where students are encouraged to reach their fullest potential.

The university is renowned for its breathtaking collegiate gothic architecture, with its main campus designated as a historic district, providing a truly inspiring backdrop for learning and discovery. Academically, Boston College is classified as a 'Research 1' institution by the Carnegie Classification, signifying its very high research spending and doctorate production. It offers a comprehensive range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across its nine colleges and schools, building on an educational tradition rooted in the rigorous Jesuit Ratio Studiorum.

Beyond its academic rigor, Boston College boasts a dynamic student experience. The Boston College Eagles compete fiercely in NCAA Division I, with their men's ice hockey team notably winning five national championships. The university cultivates a close-knit community, drawing over 15,000 students who engage in a spirited campus life. Graduates join a formidable network of alumni who have gone on to achieve significant success in diverse fields, including governors, ambassadors, scholars, and numerous Rhodes, Truman, and Fulbright scholars, embodying the institution's enduring legacy of leadership and impact.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1863 by the Society of Jesus, upholding a rich Jesuit educational tradition.
  • ✦Recognized as a "Research 1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production" university.
  • ✦Features stunning collegiate gothic architecture across its historic 175-acre main campus in Chestnut Hill.
  • ✦Home to over 15,000 students pursuing a wide array of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
  • ✦Boston College Eagles compete in NCAA Division I; the men's ice hockey team has won five national championships.
  • ✦Alumni network includes 3 Rhodes, 22 Truman, and 171 Fulbright scholars, among other accomplished leaders.
  • ✦Supported by an impressive endowment of $3.8 billion, fostering extensive academic and research initiatives.

Timeline

1857
Jesuit priest John McElroy purchased land in Boston's South End to establish "The Boston College".
1863
Boston College was granted a university charter by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
1864
The collegiate instruction program was officially launched by the first President, John Bapst.
1907
Most of the university's campus relocated from Boston's South End to its present Chestnut Hill location.
1927
Boston College High School became separately incorporated, no longer a constituent part of the university.
🏛️
163 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

David Quigley
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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