MCPHS University
Boston, MA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About MCPHS University
Boston's oldest higher education institution, pioneering health sciences since 1823.
MCPHS University stands as a cornerstone of health education, distinguished as the oldest higher education institution in Boston and the second-oldest, largest college of pharmacy in the United States. Founded in 1823 by a collective of fourteen visionary Boston pharmacists, MCPHS has a rich legacy of advancing pharmaceutical knowledge and, over two centuries, has evolved into a comprehensive university dedicated to all facets of health sciences. With an impressive endowment of $1.7 billion and a vibrant student body of 5,945, it continues to lead in educating the next generation of healthcare professionals.
From its foundational roots in pharmacy, MCPHS strategically expanded its academic offerings to meet the dynamic needs of the healthcare industry. In 1979, it broadened its scope to include allied health sciences, a pivotal moment that reshaped its identity and portfolio. Today, MCPHS boasts a diverse array of professional schools spanning disciplines from physician assistant studies and optometry to nursing, physical therapy, and dental hygiene. This robust academic environment is spread across multiple campuses, including its main Boston location in the Longwood Medical Area, alongside growing campuses in Worcester, Massachusetts, and Manchester, New Hampshire.
Life at MCPHS is defined by innovation, growth, and a commitment to student success. The university continually invests in its facilities, with recent years seeing significant renovations and the addition of new residence halls to accommodate its expanding community. Prospective students and families will find an institution that blends historical prestige with forward-thinking programs, preparing graduates for impactful careers in a wide range of health professions. The commitment to restoring historic buildings, like the Duncan and Goodell Building in Worcester, further reflects MCPHS's dedication to community and heritage while forging a path to the future.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1823, MCPHS is the oldest higher education institution in Boston.
- ✦It is the second-oldest and largest college of pharmacy in the United States.
- ✦Boasts a substantial endowment of $1.7 billion, supporting its educational mission.
- ✦Home to 5,945 students pursuing diverse health science careers.
- ✦Offers a comprehensive range of health-focused programs across three distinct campuses in Boston, Worcester, and Manchester.
- ✦Known for its continuous expansion of professional schools, including pharmacy, physician assistant studies, optometry, nursing, and dental hygiene.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
13 notable schools within MCPHS University
School of Pharmacy
A foundational school, reflecting the university's origins as the second-oldest college of pharmacy in the United States.
School of Physician Assistant Studies
Offers comprehensive programs for aspiring physician assistants.
School of Optometry
Provides specialized education in optometric care.
School of Physical Therapy
Prepares students for careers in physical therapy.
School of Arts and Sciences
Supports a broad liberal arts foundation for health science studies.
School of Nursing
Educates future nurses through rigorous academic and clinical programs.
School of Dental Hygiene
Offers programs in oral hygiene, integrating the Forsyth School of Dental Hygienists in 2002.
School of Medical Imaging and Therapeutics
Focuses on advanced techniques in medical imaging and therapeutic practices.
School of Healthcare Business
Combines healthcare knowledge with essential business acumen.
School of Occupational Therapy
Trains professionals to help individuals achieve independence in daily activities.
School of Acupuncture
One of the specialized schools MCPHS grew to include, focusing on traditional Chinese medicine.
New England School of Acupuncture (NESA)
Acquired by MCPHS in April 2016, further enhancing the university's acupuncture offerings.
School of Professional Studies
Added in 2019, providing various professional development and continuing education opportunities.
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