Clark University logo

Clark University

Worcester, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
2,336
Total Students
$55K
Tuition (In-State)
$55K
Tuition (Out-State)
$28K
Avg Net Price
42%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Clark University

Pioneering research university fostering innovation and challenging conventions since 1887.

Clark University, established in 1887 by prominent businessman Jonas Gilman Clark, stands as one of America's first modern research universities. Initially dedicated solely to graduate studies, it carved a unique path in higher education, eventually welcoming undergraduates in 1902 and women in 1942. Known for its enduring commitment to the motto "Challenge Convention. Change our World.," Clark fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and impactful research.

Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, Clark offers a robust academic portfolio spanning 46 majors, minors, and concentrations across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and even engineering (through a 3/2 program). Students benefit from the flexibility to design specialized majors and engage in pre-professional programs. As an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution, Clark emphasizes a deep dive into scholarship. Its membership in the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts also allows for cross-registration at other esteemed local institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and the College of the Holy Cross.

Clark boasts a rich legacy in fields like psychology, where the American Psychological Association was founded, and geography, home to the inventor of the wind chill factor. Beyond these pioneering departments, students can explore vibrant programs in Management, Chemistry, and Professional Studies. The university's midsize city campus and 72-acre grounds provide a dynamic setting for learning and growth. As a Division III institution, the Clark Cougars compete in 17 varsity sports, contributing to a well-rounded and engaging student experience.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1887, it was one of the first modern research universities in the U.S. and initially an all-graduate institution.
  • Designated an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution.
  • The American Psychological Association was founded at Clark by its first president, G. Stanley Hall, who also invited Sigmund Freud for his first U.S. lecture here.
  • Offers 46 majors, minors, and concentrations, with students able to cross-register at other institutions via the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts.
  • Current endowment of $501 million (2025) and a student body of 3,559 (fall 2025).
  • Notable alumni include inventors of the wind chill factor and the birth control pill, as well as the founder of American cultural anthropology, Franz Boas.

Timeline

1887
Founded by Jonas Gilman Clark and granted a charter.
1889
Opened as the first all-graduate university in the United States.
1891
Granted the first PhD in anthropology in the U.S.
1892
The American Psychological Association was founded at Clark University.
1902
Clark College (undergraduate institution) opened.
1908
Awarded the first female PhD in psychology.
1920
Francis Sumner became the first African American to earn a PhD in psychology.
1921
The Graduate School of Geography was founded.
1942
Women were first enrolled at the university.
1999
Clark withdrew its membership from the Association of American Universities.

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Clark University

🏫

School of Management

Founded in 1982, offers master's and undergraduate courses in management, marketing, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

🎓

Graduate School of Geography

Founded in 1921, offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees; home to Clark Labs and inventor of the wind chill factor.

🏫

School of Professional Studies

Offers bachelor's, Master in Public Administration (MPA), Master of Science in Public Communication (MSPC), Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT), and certificates.

🏫

Frances L. Hiatt School of Psychology

Offers undergraduate and doctoral degrees, notable for its historical role in the development of psychology in the U.S.

🏫

Gustaf H. Carlson School of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees, including a 3/2 engineering program with Columbia University.

Find Scholarships at Clark University

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

Start Your Free Search