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Suffolk University

Boston, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Honestas et Diligentia(Honesty and Diligence)

Wikipedia
Private university
Type
6,403
Total Students
4,319
Undergrad
2,078
Graduate
$261M
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Marisa Kelly

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

About Suffolk University

Suffolk University: Boston's urban hub for ambitious, working students since 1906.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Boston, at the edge of the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, Suffolk University stands as a dynamic private institution renowned for its "Professions-focused" academic approach. This urban campus offers a vibrant setting where students can immerse themselves in a rich educational experience, benefiting from its prime location and dedication to career-oriented learning. As host to the highly regarded Suffolk University Political Research Center, the university actively contributes to public discourse through influential opinion polls, adding a unique dimension to its academic environment.

The university's history is rooted in a compelling vision. Founded in 1906 by Boston lawyer Gleason Archer Sr. as "Archer's Evening Law School," it was specifically designed to serve ambitious individuals who needed to work during the day while pursuing their legal education. This commitment to accessibility and practical learning quickly propelled its growth. By 1930, Archer's vision expanded beyond law, leading to the establishment of the Suffolk College of Arts and Sciences in 1934 and the College of Business Administration (now the Sawyer Business School) in 1937. That same year, these three robust academic units officially incorporated as Suffolk University, cementing its status as a comprehensive institution.

Today, Suffolk University is led by President Marisa Kelly and continues its legacy of empowering students. It comprises the Suffolk College of Arts and Sciences, the Sawyer Business School, and the distinguished Suffolk University Law School, offering a wide array of programs for its over 6,400 students. The university's motto, "Honestas et Diligentia" (Honesty and Diligence), reflects its core values. Beyond academics, the Suffolk Rams compete in 19 varsity sports as part of NCAA Division III, fostering a spirited student life within its urban campus.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1906 as an evening law school to serve ambitious individuals working while studying.
  • Strategically located in downtown Boston, adjacent to the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
  • Carnegie-designated as a "Professions-focused Undergraduate/Graduate-Doctorate Medium" university.
  • Home to the influential Suffolk University Political Research Center, known for its public opinion polls.
  • Comprises the Suffolk College of Arts and Sciences, Sawyer Business School, and Suffolk University Law School.
  • A vibrant community of over 6,400 students, fostering an engaging urban campus experience.
  • Possesses a substantial endowment of approximately $0.3 billion, supporting its mission and growth.

Timeline

1906
Founded as Archer's Evening Law School by Gleason Archer Sr.
1907
Renamed Suffolk School of Law.
1934
Suffolk College of Arts and Sciences founded.
1937
College of Business Administration (now Sawyer Business School) founded.
1937
The three academic units incorporated as Suffolk University.
1990s
Constructed first residence halls and opened international campuses.

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Suffolk University

🎭

Suffolk College of Arts and Sciences

Established in 1934, offering diverse programs in arts, humanities, and sciences.

💼

Sawyer Business School

Originally founded in 1937 as the College of Business Administration, providing robust business education.

⚖️

Suffolk University Law School

The foundational school, established in 1906, known for its practical legal education.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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