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Indiana University-Bloomington

Bloomington, IN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Lux et Veritas (Latin)("Light and Truth")

Wikipedia
1820
Founded
Public research university
Type
48,424
Total Students
36,833
Undergrad
10,694
Graduate
$4.0B
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Indiana University-Bloomington

Indiana University-Bloomington: A flagship public research powerhouse with a rich history and vibrant spirit.

Indiana University-Bloomington stands as the distinguished flagship campus of the Indiana University system, a vibrant public research university nestled in Bloomington, Indiana. Since its founding in 1820 as the state's seminary, IU Bloomington has grown into a leading institution, earning the prestigious R1 classification for its very high research activity. With a sprawling campus that serves over 48,000 students, it's a dynamic hub of learning, innovation, and collegiate life.

The university's history is marked by a commitment to progress, including being among the earliest public universities to admit women on equal terms. Throughout challenges, from an early campus fire to navigating economic downturns under visionary leaders like Herman Wells, IU has continually expanded its academic and physical footprint. This foundation has cultivated a diverse academic landscape, home to world-renowned programs that attract students globally.

Academically, IU-Bloomington boasts an impressive array of specialized schools, including the globally recognized Jacobs School of Music, the highly respected Kelley School of Business, and the historic Maurer School of Law. Other key strengths include the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and the School of Public Health. Beyond the classroom, the spirit of "Lux et Veritas" (Light and Truth) resonates through its vibrant campus life, iconic facilities like the Lilly Library, and legendary Hoosiers athletics, competing fiercely in the Big Ten Conference with 24 NCAA national championships. While recent years have seen the university navigate significant changes, including program evaluations and federal investigations, its core mission of education and research endures, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience for its students.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1820, making it one of the oldest public universities in the United States.
  • Flagship campus of Indiana University, serving over 48,000 students, the largest in the system.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
  • Endowment stands at $4.0 billion (system-wide), supporting its extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Home to renowned professional schools, including the Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and Maurer School of Law.
  • The Indiana Hoosiers athletic teams compete in NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference and have won 24 NCAA national championships.
  • One of the fourth public universities in the U.S. to admit women on an equal basis with men, starting in 1867.

Timeline

1820
Established as the "State Seminary" in Corydon.
1829
Name changed to "Indiana College".
1838
Name changed to "Indiana University".
1867
Admitted its first woman student, Sarah Parke Morrison.
1883
Awarded its first PhD and played its first intercollegiate sport (baseball); original campus burned down.
1916
First extension office of IU opened in Indianapolis.
1920
The School of Music and the School of Commerce and Finance (later Kelley School of Business) were opened.
1945
The Kinsey Institute for sexual research was established.
1951
The Indiana University School of Optometry was founded.
2025
State budget bill mandated the phase-out of over a hundred degree programs due to low enrollment.
🏛️
206 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

9 notable schools within Indiana University-Bloomington

💼

Kelley School of Business

Founded in 1920 as the School of Commerce and Finance, it offers extensive undergraduate, graduate, MBA, and PhD programs, known for experiential learning partnerships.

📚

School of Education

Independent since 1923, it offers BS, MS, EdS, and doctoral degrees in teacher education and related fields.

⚖️

Maurer School of Law

Founded in 1842, it is one of the oldest schools on campus, renowned for its legal education and notable alumni like Hoagy Carmichael and Lee H. Hamilton.

🏫

Jacobs School of Music

Established in the early 20th century, it is acclaimed for voice, opera, orchestral conducting, and jazz studies, boasting extensive facilities and a distinguished faculty.

💉

School of Nursing

Originally established in 1914, it offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees across multiple IU campuses, recognized as a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing.

🏫

School of Optometry

Founded in 1951, it offers the Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and operates community eye care clinics, also housing the Borish Center for Ophthalmic Research.

🏛️

School of Public Health-Bloomington

Established in 1946, it was renamed in 2012 and offers a broad range of undergraduate and advanced degrees in five departments, focusing on health, prevention, and recreation.

🏫

School of Social Work

Founded in 1911 as the Department of Social Service, it is the oldest professional social work education program still functioning as part of a university; it merged with the Division of Labor Studies in 2007.

🎓

University Graduate School

Supports graduate and professional students, partnering with the Graduate and Professional Student Organization to enhance outreach, enrollment, retention, and community building efforts.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Rahul Shrivastav
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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