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Brandeis University

Waltham, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

3,663
Total Students
$65K
Tuition (In-State)
$65K
Tuition (Out-State)
$34K
Avg Net Price
35%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Graduation Rate
6-year
90%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Brandeis University

Brandeis University: A vibrant research hub fostering truth and open inquiry near Boston.

Brandeis University stands as a distinguished private research institution nestled in Waltham, Massachusetts, within the dynamic Greater Boston area. Established in 1948 as a pioneering non-sectarian and coeducational university, Brandeis was founded with a vision to create an academic environment open to all, regardless of background. Named after the revered U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, the university quickly carved out a reputation for its commitment to intellectual rigor and academic freedom, classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity."

The university's history is as unique as its mission. Rising from the foundation of the former Middlesex University, Brandeis was conceived by a committee seeking to establish a Jewish-sponsored secular university. Despite early challenges and the brief, though significant, involvement of Albert Einstein, the institution was successfully launched, championed by figures like George Alpert. This founding spirit emphasized a commitment to truth and open inquiry, shaping its identity as a place where diverse perspectives converge to advance knowledge.

Academically, Brandeis is a powerhouse, evidenced by its membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) since 1985. The university offers a rich array of over 40 graduate programs, including 18 doctoral degrees, fostering advanced research and scholarship. Its faculty and alumni boast an impressive list of accolades, including Nobel Prize laureates, Fields Medalists, Turing Award winners, and Abel Prize winners, underscoring its profound impact across various disciplines.

Students at Brandeis engage in a stimulating academic and social environment on its 235-acre campus. Located just a short distance from Boston, students benefit from the cultural and professional opportunities of a major metropolitan area while enjoying a close-knit campus community. The university encourages vibrant discourse, as reflected in its commitment to free expression, and fosters a student experience characterized by intellectual curiosity and a drive to make a difference in the world.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking research.
  • Founded in 1948 as a non-sectarian, coeducational university, open to students and faculty of all races and religions.
  • Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, within the vibrant Greater Boston area, offering rich cultural and professional opportunities.
  • Boasts a substantial endowment of $1.36 billion (2025) and a total student enrollment of 4,696 (fall 2025).
  • A proud member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) since 1985.
  • Features distinguished alumni and faculty, including multiple Nobel, Fields, Turing, and Abel Prize laureates.
  • Offers over 40 graduate programs, including 18 doctoral programs, with cross-registration options at other major Boston-area universities.

Timeline

1944
John Hall Smith, founder of Middlesex University (site of future Brandeis), passes away.
1946
Albert Einstein is recruited to the nascent university project, drawing national attention.
1946
The board decides the university will be named after Louis Brandeis, after Einstein declined the honor.
1948
Brandeis University is officially established as a non-sectarian, coeducational institution.
1985
Brandeis becomes a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU).
1994
The Brandeis International Business School is established.
1998
The Center for German and European Studies is dedicated by German Chancellor Helmut Kohl.
2009
University announces plans to close the Rose Art Museum (decision later reversed in 2011).
2018
The university adopts official free expression principles.
2024
President Ronald Liebowitz announces his resignation following a faculty no-confidence vote.

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Brandeis University

💼

Brandeis International Business School

Established in 1994, it provides graduate-level education in international economics and finance.

🏫

The Rabb School of Continuing Studies

Offers professional development through degree programs, personal enrichment, and lifelong learning with over 4,000 enrollments annually.

🎭

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Offers over 40 programs, including 18 doctoral programs, with cross-registration opportunities at other major Boston-area universities.

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