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Boston University

Boston, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"Learning, Virtue, Piety"

Wikipedia
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 rich history and global impact.

Nestled along Boston's iconic Charles River, Boston University (BU) stands as a dynamic private research university renowned for its "very high research activity" classification. Since its chartering in Boston in 1869, BU has grown into a formidable academic institution, a proud member of the Association of American Universities, offering a vast array of programs across its 17 schools and colleges. With nearly 38,000 students and a substantial endowment, BU is not just one of Boston's largest employers but also a hub of intellectual inquiry and innovation.

Historically rooted in a Methodist affiliation, BU is now a nonsectarian university that embraces diversity in thought and background. It provides comprehensive academic pathways, from bachelor's to master's, doctorates, and specialized degrees in fields such as medicine, dentistry, business, and law. This breadth of offerings, coupled with a commitment to groundbreaking research, ensures a stimulating environment for ambitious students seeking to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

Life at BU is characterized by a vibrant urban experience, with its main campus integrated into the heart of Boston and additional campuses enhancing its reach. Students benefit from extensive facility improvements, including state-of-the-art residences and academic centers, fostering a modern learning environment. The university's commitment to accessibility is highlighted by its recent expansion of financial aid to meet the full need for all domestic students. Beyond academics, the spirited Boston University Terriers compete in NCAA Division I, adding to a rich campus life.

Key Highlights

  • A prestigious 'R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity' institution.
  • Member of the esteemed Association of American Universities (AAU) since 2012.
  • Educates nearly 38,000 students across 17 schools and colleges.
  • Boasts a substantial $4.0 billion endowment.
  • Offers a comprehensive range of degrees, including medical, dental, business, and law.
  • Expanded financial aid program to meet the full need for all domestic students.
  • Located along the Charles River in vibrant Boston, Massachusetts.

Timeline

1839
Founded as the Newbury Biblical Institute in Newbury, Vermont.
1869
Chartered as Boston University by the Massachusetts Legislature upon its move to Boston.
2012
Invited to join the Association of American Universities (AAU).
2012
Launched its first comprehensive fundraising campaign with an initial goal of $1 billion.
2015
Faculty adopted an open-access policy to make scholarship publicly accessible online.
2019
Fundraising campaign concluded, raising a total of $1.85 billion.
2019
Expanded its financial aid program to meet the full need for all domestic students starting fall 2020.
2020
Shifted to online learning due to COVID-19 and later implemented a hybrid system with in-house testing.
2024
Melissa L. Gilliam began her tenure as the 11th President of the university.
🏛️
187 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Boston University

📚

Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Houses programs dedicated to education and human development, formed through a merger in 2018.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Gloria S. Waters
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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