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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 vibrant urban research powerhouse with a global reach and unwavering student support.

Boston University (BU) stands as a prominent private research university, deeply integrated into the dynamic fabric of Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1839 as the Newbury Biblical Institute and later chartered in Boston in 1869, BU has evolved into a leading academic institution classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." It is a proud member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking research and scholarly excellence.

With nearly 38,000 students across 17 schools and colleges, BU offers an extensive array of bachelor's, master's, doctorates, and professional degrees in fields like medicine, dentistry, business, and law. The university's academic strengths are bolstered by its nearly 4,000 faculty members who foster an environment of intellectual inquiry and innovation. Rooted in a history affiliated with the United Methodist Church, BU today operates as a nonsectarian institution, embracing a diverse and inclusive community.

The student experience at Boston University is characterized by its vibrant urban setting, with main campuses along the Charles River and a Medical Campus in the South End. Students engage in a rich campus life, supported by substantial financial aid—BU is committed to meeting the full demonstrated need for all domestic students who qualify. Recent years have seen significant campus transformations, including new student residences, state-of-the-art research facilities like the Rajen Kilachand Center for Integrated Life Sciences & Engineering, and renovated historic buildings, all contributing to a modern and engaging learning environment. The Terriers, BU's NCAA Division I athletic teams, add to the lively campus spirit, competing in the Patriot League and Hockey East.

Key Highlights

  • A private research university classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity."
  • A member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) since 2012.
  • Committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need for all domestic students who qualify.
  • Hosts nearly 38,000 students across 17 schools and colleges offering a wide range of degrees.
  • Boasts an endowment of $4.0 billion, supporting extensive research and academic programs.
  • Features dynamic urban campuses along the Charles River and in the South End of Boston.
  • Concluded a record-breaking $1.85 billion fundraising campaign in 2019, fueling faculty support, research, and facility improvements.

Timeline

1839
Established as the "Newbury Biblical Institute" in Newbury, Vermont.
1869
Chartered by the Massachusetts Legislature with the name "Boston University" upon relocating to Boston.
2012
Invited to join the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU).
2019
Concluded its first comprehensive fundraising campaign, raising a total of $1.85 billion.
2019
Expanded its financial aid program to meet the full demonstrated need for all domestic students.
2020
Implemented a hybrid learning system and comprehensive in-house COVID-19 testing program in response to the pandemic.
2024
Melissa L. Gilliam began her tenure as the university's 11th president.
🏛️
187 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Boston University

🏥

Medical School

Offers medical degrees and is situated on the Boston University Medical Campus.

🦷

Dental School

Provides comprehensive dental degree programs.

💼

Business School

Offers various business degrees, preparing students for leadership roles.

⚖️

Law School

Offers law degrees, supported by facilities like the Law tower and Redstone annex.

📚

Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Houses programs focused on education and human development, formed from a merger in 2018.

Leadership

Gloria S. Waters
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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