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Boston University

Boston, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“"Learning, Virtue, Piety"”

1839
Founded
Private research university
Type
17,850
Total Students
18,805
Undergrad
18,932
Graduate
$4.0B
Endowment
(2025)
$65K
Tuition (In-State)
$65K
Tuition (Out-State)
$27K
Avg Net Price
11%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Graduation Rate
6-year
95%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Boston University

Boston University: A Global Research Powerhouse in the Heart of an Iconic City.

Boston University (BU) stands as a vibrant, private research university nestled in the iconic city of Boston, Massachusetts. With a bustling community of nearly 38,000 students across 17 diverse schools and colleges, BU offers an expansive academic landscape. From bachelor's to doctoral degrees, including specialized medical, dental, business, and law programs, the university empowers students to pursue their passions in a dynamic urban environment. Its main campus gracefully stretches along the Charles River, integrating seamlessly into Boston's Fenway–Kenmore and Allston neighborhoods.

Tracing its roots back to the Newbury Biblical Institute founded in rural Vermont in 1839, BU's journey reflects a commitment to evolution and growth. It officially became "Boston University" when chartered in Boston in 1869. While retaining a historical affiliation with the United Methodist Church, BU operates as a proudly nonsectarian institution today. This rich history underscores a legacy of adapting to meet contemporary needs, culminating in its recognition as a leading research institution, notably joining the prestigious Association of American Universities in 2012.

As an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," Boston University is a hub of innovation and discovery. Its academic excellence is bolstered by a substantial $4.0 billion endowment and a commitment to student support, demonstrated by its policy to meet the full financial need for all domestic students who qualify, initiated in fall 2020. Recent years have seen significant campus transformation, funded in part by a remarkable $1.85 billion fundraising campaign. Students thrive within a large city campus spanning 169 acres, enjoying state-of-the-art facilities and a spirited community embodied by the Boston Terriers and their mascot, Rhett.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Designated as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
  • ✦A prestigious private research university founded in 1839 and chartered in Boston in 1869.
  • ✦Home to nearly 38,000 students across 17 schools and colleges.
  • ✦Boasts a robust $4.0 billion endowment to support its academic and research endeavors.
  • ✦Joined the esteemed Association of American Universities in 2012, recognizing its research excellence.
  • ✦Successfully concluded a comprehensive $1.85 billion fundraising campaign in 2019.
  • ✦Committed to meeting the full financial need for all domestic students who qualify for financial aid, starting Fall 2020.

Timeline

1839
The "Newbury Biblical Institute" was established in Newbury, Vermont.
1847
Relocated to Concord, New Hampshire, and renamed the "Methodist General Biblical Institute".
1869
Chartered by the Massachusetts Legislature as "Boston University" in Boston.
2012
Invited to join the prestigious Association of American Universities.
2012
Launched its first comprehensive $1 billion fundraising campaign.
2018
Wheelock College merged with Boston University, forming the Wheelock College of Education and Human Development.
2019
Completed a comprehensive fundraising campaign, raising a total of $1.85 billion.
2020
Expanded its financial aid program to meet the full need for all domestic students.
2024
Melissa L. Gilliam began her tenure as the university's 11th president.
🏛️
187 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Boston University

📚

Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Formed in 2018 after Wheelock College merged with BU, it houses programs focused on education and human development.

Leadership

Gloria S. Waters
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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