Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts
About Boston University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1839, Boston University is a university serving students in Boston, Massachusetts. With a tradition of academic excellence, Boston University prepares graduates for success in Business, Social Sciences, Communications, and more.
A Diverse Community in Boston
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Boston University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $11,453, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Boston University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Boston University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 88% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 81% |
| First-year retention rate | 95% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $73,661 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $83,238 |
| Median debt at graduation | $23,250 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Boston University
| Total enrollment | 37,737 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 18,805 |
| Graduate students | 18,932 |
| International students | 21% |
| First-generation students | 17% |
What you can study at Boston University
159 programs, most of them in these fields:
Foreign Languages (19)
African Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature, Chinese Language and Literature, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (18)
Acting, Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (16)
Accounting, Advertising, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Education (15)
Art Teacher Education, Bilingual and Multilingual Education, Chemistry Teacher Education, and more
Health Professions (13)
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist, Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician, Dental Assisting/Assistant, and more
Social Sciences (11)
Anthropology, General, Archeology, Economics, General, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (10)
African-American/Black Studies, American/United States Studies/Civilization, Area Studies, Other, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (10)
Biochemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, and more
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