Lasell University logo

Lasell University

Newton, MA

private nonprofitgraduate
Find Scholarships Here

About Lasell University

Lasell University: Pioneering women's education and innovation, now a dynamic co-educational institution.

Lasell University, rooted in a rich history of educational innovation, offers a vibrant academic experience for today's students. What began as a radical experiment in women's education in 1851 has evolved into a comprehensive university known for its forward-thinking approach. The institution is recognized for its commitment to academic rigor and a unique integration of learning, exemplified by its early offering of law courses for women and the administration of Harvard exams, setting a high bar for excellence that continues today.

From its inception as the Auburndale Female Seminary, Lasell quickly gained renown for a highly scientific approach to domestic work, art, and music, alongside standard collegiate instruction. It holds the distinction of being the "first successful and persistent" junior college in the United States, continuously adapting its programs to meet evolving educational needs. This spirit of innovation persists, now extending to a diverse, co-educational student body and offering a range of undergraduate and master's degrees.

Prospective students will find a university deeply committed to an engaging and challenging educational journey. Lasell's transformation from a female seminary to a co-educational university in 2019 highlights its adaptability and dedication to providing a relevant and impactful education. The unique Lasell Village, an elderly education facility where residents attend classes, also underscores the university's creative approaches to community engagement and lifelong learning.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1851, originally as the Auburndale Female Seminary, by Williams College Professor Edward Lasell.
  • ✦Cited as the "first successful and persistent" junior college in the United States, offering collegiate instruction as early as 1852.
  • ✦Known for its innovative approach to women's education, including administering Harvard exams and offering law courses for women.
  • ✦Transformed from a two-year institution to a four-year institution in 1989, and began admitting male students in 1997.
  • ✦Began offering master's degrees in 2002, expanding its post-graduate opportunities.
  • ✦Achieved university status in 2019, signifying its comprehensive academic offerings.
  • ✦Developed Lasell Village, an elderly education facility where residents live and attend classes, showcasing a unique community model.

Timeline

1851
Founded as the "Auburndale Female Seminary" by Edward Lasell.
1852
Began offering two years of standard collegiate instruction.
1874
Governance given to a board of trustees and renamed "Lasell Seminary for Young Women".
1932
Changed its name to "Lasell Junior College".
1943
Officially began offering associate degrees.
1989
Adopted a charter to become a four-year institution.
1997
Began admitting male students.
2002
Began offering master's degrees.
2019
Application to become a university was approved, changing its name to Lasell University.

Find Scholarships at Lasell University

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

Start Your Free Search