Northeastern University: Understanding Student Population Size

Northeastern University, a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts, has a large student body. Founded in 1898, the university has experienced significant growth over the years, with more than 38,000 students enrolled across its various programs as of 2025. This includes a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 15,891 students and over 15,000 graduate students for the fall of 2023. The university also has a large international community, with students from over 100 countries, and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, including its well-known cooperative education program.

Northeastern University has over 38,000 students

Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, has over 38,000 students, making it the largest university in the state by enrollment. The university's student population is comprised of over 15,000 undergraduate students and over 15,000 graduate students. Northeastern's undergraduate enrollment includes students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The gender distribution of the undergraduate student body is 43.6% male and 56.4% female, with around 44% living in college-owned or affiliated housing.

Northeastern University is a private research university established in 1898. The university has a total campus size of 73 acres and offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Most undergraduates participate in a cooperative education program, which provides full-time, paid professional positions related to their major. The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and is classified as a "Doctoral University – Very high research activity".

Northeastern's cooperative education program is one of the largest and oldest in the world. The program allows students to alternate between periods of academic study and professional employment, gaining valuable experience in their chosen field. The university also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including over 16 varsity sports teams, over 30 club sports teams, and over 400 student clubs and organizations.

With a focus on experiential learning, Northeastern University provides students with a unique and advantageous educational experience. The combination of academic studies and practical work experience sets Northeastern graduates apart and prepares them for success in their future endeavours.

There are 15,891 undergraduate students

Northeastern University has a total of 15,891 undergraduate students enrolled as of Fall 2023. This includes 43.6% male students and 56.4% female students. The university's undergraduate population is highly diverse, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

The total number of undergraduate students at Northeastern University exceeds 15,000, making it a large institution. The university's main campus is located in Boston, Massachusetts, and it offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With more than 38,000 students across all programs, Northeastern is the largest university in Massachusetts by enrollment.

The university comprises nine schools, including the College of Arts, Media, and Design, the Khoury College of Computer Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the Bouvé College of Health Sciences. It also has two separate schools: the D'Amore-McKim School of Business and the Northeastern University School of Law.

Northeastern University is committed to providing financial aid to its students, investing a record $470 million in financial aid for the 2024-2025 academic year. The university has a history of diversity and inclusion, actively recruiting black students and women since the 1960s. Today, the first-year undergraduate class has a demographic diversity, with 49.25% of enrolled students identifying as non-white.

The university offers a range of housing options, with 44% of students living in college-owned or affiliated housing and 56% living off-campus. Northeastern also has a strong focus on experiential learning, with students participating in programs in 148 countries across seven continents. The university's cooperative education program places nearly 10,000 students annually in full-time, paid professional positions.

43.6% male, 56.4% female

Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, has a total undergraduate enrollment of 15,891 students as of Fall 2023, with a gender distribution of 43.6% male and 56.4% female. This means that there are approximately 6,896 male students and 8,995 female students enrolled at the university.

Northeastern University is a private research university established in 1898 as an all-male institute. It gained university status in 1922 and began admitting women in 1948. Today, the university has more than 38,000 students and is the largest university in Massachusetts by enrollment.

The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and most undergraduates participate in a cooperative education program. The university's cooperative education program places nearly 10,000 students annually in full-time, paid professional positions related to their major. The program allows students to gain practical work experience while completing their studies.

In addition to its main campus in Boston, Northeastern University also has satellite campuses across the United States and in Canada. The university is committed to providing financial aid to its students, investing a record $470 million in financial aid for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Northeastern welcomed 2,759 first-year students in 2024

Northeastern University welcomed 2,759 first-year students to its Boston campus in 2024. This diverse cohort of undergraduates came from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university's commitment to inclusivity and excellence is further demonstrated by its investment of $470 million in financial aid for the 2024-2025 academic year, ensuring that 61% of undergraduates receive financial support. This includes merit-based scholarships and need-based grants, with the university meeting the full demonstrated financial need for every student.

Northeastern's holistic admissions approach focuses on qualities beyond academics, seeking students eager to embrace experiential learning opportunities. The university offers a unique educational model centred on its signature co-op program, providing students with global experiences and real-world skills. This approach has proven successful, with 93% of graduates employed full-time or in graduate school within nine months of completing their studies.

The university's appeal is evident in the skyrocketing number of applications, with 98,373 undergraduate applications received for the 2024-2025 academic year. This surge in interest reflects Northeastern's reputation for academic excellence and its ability to cater to a wide range of student interests, offering over 270 hybrid degree programs.

Northeastern's first-year class of 2024 is also notable for its demographic diversity. Following the Supreme Court's ruling in June 2023, which prohibited the consideration of race in admissions, 49.25% of enrolled students identified as non-white. This commitment to inclusivity extends beyond race, with 19% of first-year students on the Boston campus eligible for the Pell Grant, supporting low-income students.

The university's global reach is further emphasised by its satellite campuses and international partnerships. In addition to its main campus in Boston, Northeastern maintains a presence across the United States and worldwide, including locations such as Charlotte, Seattle, Toronto, London, and Vancouver. This allows for a truly international educational experience, with students able to start their journey at various campuses and participate in experiential learning programs in 148 countries across seven continents.

The university has eight degree-granting colleges

Northeastern University has eight colleges that grant degrees to students:

College of Arts, Media and Design

The College of Arts, Media and Design offers a range of programs in fields such as media arts, design, and communication studies. It provides students with opportunities to explore their creative passions and develop skills in areas like graphic design, film, and journalism.

Khoury College of Computer Sciences

The Khoury College of Computer Sciences is a leader in its field, offering a range of programs that prepare students for careers in computer science and information technology. With a strong focus on research and innovation, the college has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the tech industry.

College of Engineering

The College of Engineering has a long history dating back to the early 1900s when it was established as the Co-operative School of Engineering. Today, it offers a range of engineering programs, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. The college is known for its hands-on approach to learning, providing students with practical experience through its cooperative education program.

Bouvé College of Health Sciences

The Bouvé College of Health Sciences was formed through the merger of the College of Pharmacy and the College of Nursing. It offers a range of health-related programs, including nursing, pharmacy, and allied health. The college is committed to preparing students for careers in the healthcare industry, providing them with a strong foundation in their chosen field.

College of Professional Studies

The College of Professional Studies, previously known as University College, offers a range of professional programs that prepare students for specific careers. The college provides a practical and applied approach to learning, offering programs in fields such as business, law, and education.

College of Social Sciences and Humanities

The College of Social Sciences and Humanities offers a broad range of programs that explore various aspects of human society and culture. Students can major in fields such as psychology, sociology, history, and English, gaining a deep understanding of the social and cultural forces that shape our world.

D'Amore-McKim School of Business

The D'Amore-McKim School of Business is a separate entity within the university, offering a range of business-focused programs. With a strong focus on experiential learning, the school prepares students for careers in business and entrepreneurship. The school has produced many successful alumni who have gone on to lead prominent companies and organizations.

Northeastern University School of Law

The Northeastern University School of Law, established in 1898, has a long history of providing legal education. The school offers Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Laws (LLM) programs, as well as a range of specializations. It is known for its commitment to social justice and has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers in law and public service.

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