Bucknell University logo

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
Private liberal arts college
Type
3,818
Total Students
3,928
Undergrad
47
Graduate
$1.3B
Endowment
(2025)
$65K
Tuition (In-State)
$65K
Tuition (Out-State)
$40K
Avg Net Price
32%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Graduation Rate
6-year
96%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: John C. Bravman

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

About Bucknell University

Bucknell University: A storied liberal arts college with a strong academic foundation.

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Bucknell University stands as a distinguished private liberal arts college, built upon a rich history of academic ambition and community vision. Founded in 1846 as the University at Lewisburg, its origin traces back to a group of Baptists who envisioned a comprehensive institution encompassing a high school, a female academy, a college, and a theological institution. This foundational dream set the stage for a university dedicated to broad learning and intellectual development.

From its humble beginnings, opening a preparatory school in a church basement, Bucknell rapidly grew into a respected academic center. Its charter, granted in 1846, was a testament to the community's commitment, requiring a significant sum to be raised before achieving full corporate status. This early dedication to financial stability and academic rigor continues to shape the university, which today boasts a substantial endowment of $1.2 billion, ensuring resources for future generations of students.

Under the leadership of President John C. Bravman, Bucknell continues to uphold its legacy as a leading liberal arts institution. Prospective students and families are drawn to its vibrant academic environment, which combines the personalized attention of a liberal arts college with the opportunities often found at larger universities. Graduates are prepared not just with specific skills, but with critical thinking abilities, a broad understanding of the world, and the adaptability to thrive in diverse professional landscapes.

The student experience at Bucknell is characterized by a close-knit community and a commitment to intellectual exploration. With its deep historical roots and forward-looking approach, Bucknell offers a transformative education, empowering students to become engaged citizens and leaders in their chosen fields.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1846 as the University at Lewisburg, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence for over 175 years.
  • A distinguished private liberal arts college, offering a comprehensive and personalized educational experience.
  • Boasts a significant endowment of $1.2 billion, reflecting strong financial health and resource availability.
  • Initially envisioned to encompass a high school, female academy, college, and theological institution.
  • Required $100,000 (equivalent to $3.5 million today) to be raised for its charter in 1846.
  • Held its first commencement in 1851, graduating a class of seven pioneering men.

Timeline

1845
Stephen William Taylor tasked with preparing the institution's charter.
1846
Charter for the University at Lewisburg granted by the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
1846
The "school preparatory to the University" (Lewisburg High School) opened.
1848
The preparatory school became the Academic and Primary Department of the University at Lewisburg.
1851
First commencement held, graduating seven men.
1851
Howard Malcom elected as the first president of the institution.

Leadership

via Wikipedia

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Bucknell University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search