Established in 1839, Boston University is one of the largest private, non-profit research institutions in the United States. Spanning two primary urban campuses along Commonwealth Avenue and the historic South End, BU offers you an immersive educational experience embedded directly within the city of Boston. You can examine its historical trajectory via the Encyclopaedia Britannica Boston University entry.
When you join BU, you enter a vibrant global network that integrates rigorous academic preparation with immediate access to Boston's booming biotech, financial, media, and technology sectors.
Premier Academic Programs
Boston University hosts 17 schools and colleges, leading the way in several high-impact disciplines:
- Questrom School of Business: Recognized for specialized curricula in digital technology, health sector management, and sustainable enterprise. Explore programs at the Questrom School of Business portal.
- College of Communication (COM): Delivers top-tier training in journalism, film, public relations, and emerging media studies.
- Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies: Prepares you for international diplomacy, security policy, and global development.
- Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine: Drives groundbreaking clinical practice and public health research in urban healthcare.
- College of Engineering: Focuses on biomedical engineering, robotics, photonics, and data science.
"Boston University's commitment to urban engagement and global citizenship turns the historic city of Boston into your primary classroom."
Urban Campus Culture and Mascot
Your daily campus experience centers on the Charles River Campus, stretching along the waterfront. Campus spirit comes alive through Rhett the Boston Terrier, the university mascot named after Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind because nobody loves Scarlet (BU's school color) more than Rhett. Whether you are cheering on the NCAA Division I Terriers men's ice hockey team at Agganis Arena or participating in over 450 student organizations, you will find a fast-paced environment tailored for active self-starters.
Research Infrastructure and Global Networks
BU operates as a Tier-1 research powerhouse with state-of-the-art facilities:
- Center for Computing & Data Sciences: A landmark 19-story fossil-fuel-free facility housing computer science and mathematical statistics labs.
- Photonics Center: An interdisciplinary hub generating advances in light-based technologies and commercial spinoffs. Learn more through BU Research Operations.
- Study Abroad Network: Offers over 70 worldwide programs combining coursework with professional international internships.
Notable Alumni Legacy
You follow in the footsteps of distinguished leaders, scholars, and creators, including:
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil rights leader who earned his Ph.D. in Systematic Theology at BU.
- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: U.S. Representative who studied International Relations and Economics.
- Geena Davis: Academy Award winning actress and advocate for gender equality in media.
Boston University offers comprehensive financial aid packages for qualified applicants. Review academic requirements and deadlines on the official BU Admissions page.