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Georgetown University

Washington, DC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Utraque Unum (Latin)("Both into One")

1789
Founded
Private federally chartered research university
Type
20,031
Total Students
7,833
Undergrad
12,198
Graduate
$4.0B
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Georgetown University

Georgetown University: Where historic Jesuit tradition shapes global leaders in the heart of D.C.

Step into the vibrant world of Georgetown University, the nation's oldest Catholic institution of higher education and its first federally chartered university, nestled in the historic heart of Washington, D.C. Since its founding in 1789, Georgetown has fostered a distinctive blend of Jesuit values, rigorous academic inquiry, and an unwavering commitment to service. Its prime location not only offers a picturesque campus overlooking the Potomac River, marked by the iconic Healy Hall, but also provides unparalleled access to the centers of national and international policy, diplomacy, and culture.

Georgetown's rich history is intertwined with the very fabric of the United States. Founded by Bishop John Carroll, it navigated early financial struggles and the profound impact of the Civil War, even serving as Union army quarters. A pivotal moment came with the transformative leadership of Patrick Francis Healy, its "second founder" in the late 19th century, who reformed the curriculum and spearheaded significant construction. Over centuries, Georgetown evolved from a college into a comprehensive research university, embracing coeducation fully by the late 1960s and continuously expanding its global reach and academic offerings.

Today, Georgetown stands as an R1: Doctoral University with "Very high research activity," enrolling over 20,000 students from more than 135 countries across 48 disciplines. Prospective students will discover a challenging yet supportive environment known for its strengths in international relations, law, business, and medicine. The university boasts an impressive roster of alumni, including U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, numerous members of Congress, and a remarkable number of U.S. diplomats, testifying to its enduring influence on public service and global affairs. Beyond academics, the vibrant Hoya spirit, embodied by its NCAA Division I athletic teams, fosters a strong sense of community and pride.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1789 by Bishop John Carroll, it is the oldest Catholic institution of higher education and the first federally chartered university in the U.S.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," offering degrees in 48 disciplines.
  • Educated more U.S. diplomats than any other university, including at least 92 ambassadors.
  • Maintains a substantial endowment of $4.0 billion, supporting academic excellence and student opportunities.
  • Notable alumni include 2 U.S. presidents, 2 U.S. Supreme Court justices, 116 members of Congress, and 32 Rhodes Scholars.
  • The School of Foreign Service (SFS) has a campus in Qatar, fostering a global education and international collaboration.

Timeline

1789
Founded by Bishop John Carroll, becoming the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in the U.S.
1791
Welcomed its first student, William Gaston, and began instruction.
1815
Received the nation's first federal university charter, allowing it to confer degrees.
1838
Maryland Jesuits conducted a mass sale of 272 enslaved people to support the university and other schools.
1851
The Medical School was established.
1873
Patrick Francis Healy began his presidency, known as the "second founder" for his reforms and construction of Healy Hall.
1919
The renowned School of Foreign Service (SFS) was founded by Edmund A. Walsh.
1969
Became fully coeducational with the College of Arts and Sciences admitting its first female students.
2005
Opened a campus for the School of Foreign Service in Qatar, expanding its international footprint.
2005
Received a $20 million gift from Alwaleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Alsaud to expand the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding.
🏛️
237 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within Georgetown University

🏥

Medical School

Founded in 1851, it provides comprehensive medical education.

⚖️

Law Department

Established in 1870, focusing on legal education.

💉

School of Nursing

Established in 1903, it has admitted female students since its founding.

🏫

School of Foreign Service (SFS)

Founded in 1919 to prepare students for leadership in diplomacy and foreign commerce, with a campus in Qatar.

🏫

School of Dentistry

Became independent of the School of Medicine in 1956.

💼

McDonough School of Business (MSB)

Separated from the SFS in 1957 (originally School of Business Administration), renamed in 1998.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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