Janice Lozano
Boston University is a private teaching and research university with a focus on academics, social life, and athletics. The university is located in the heart of Boston, a city with a rich history and culture. BU offers a unique blend of a traditional college campus experience and city-integrated college life. With over 300 majors and minors, 650 global courses, and 180 study abroad programs, BU provides its students with diverse academic opportunities. The university is also known for its spirited athletics programs, with 24 NCAA Division 1 varsity sports teams and a notable men's ice hockey team. BU's admission process is highly selective, seeking students who have challenged themselves academically. The university guarantees on-campus housing for all four years of undergraduate studies, fostering a close-knit community within a vibrant urban setting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Boston |
| Student-to-faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of undergraduate schools and colleges | 10 |
| Number of students | Over 17,000 undergraduates |
| Number of countries students come from | Nearly 100 |
| Number of countries alumni live in | Over 185 |
| On-campus housing | Guaranteed for all four years of undergraduate study |
| Percentage of students living on campus | 75% |
| Number of global topics courses | 650 |
| Number of continents faculty research is conducted on | 7 |
| Public transport | Subway, buses, trolleys, and bikes |
| Student life | Active, diverse, and intellectually rich |
| Student profile | Smart, ambitious, proactive, and keen to understand the world |
| Example courses | Accounting, psychology, and biology |
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What You'll Learn
Boston University's city setting
Boston University is located at the junction of Fenway-Kenmore, Allston, and Brookline. The university's roots can be traced back to the establishment of the Newbury Biblical Institute in Newbury, Vermont, in 1839, and was chartered as "Boston University" in 1869. The campus is situated along the Charles River, with a variety of residence halls, modern high-rises, and historic brownstones lining Bay State Road.
The surrounding neighbourhoods offer a rich cultural experience. In the Fenway-Kenmore area, you'll find the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the nightlife of Lansdowne Street, as well as Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. Allston, known as "Allston Rock City," is Boston's largest bohemian neighbourhood, attracting artists, musicians, and a vibrant café culture. Across the Charles River, you'll discover the museums, shops, and galleries of Harvard Square and Cambridge.
The university's history is closely tied to the city of Boston, with significant donations of real estate, such as the vast bulk of Isaac Rich's estate in the core of the city, contributing to its development. The university has also faced challenges, such as the Great Boston Fire of 1872, which destroyed most of the buildings intended for the university. Despite this setback, Boston University has grown and expanded, acquiring the former Wheelock College, now known as the Boston University Fenway Campus, and continuously engaging with the city's cultural and intellectual life.
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Student life and mental health
Student life at Boston University (BU) is vibrant and diverse, with students from nearly 100 countries and a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. The university guarantees on-campus housing for all four years of undergraduate study, with various living communities available, from historic brownstones to modern high-rises. The student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1, allowing for more personalised attention and support.
However, student life at BU also comes with challenges. Some students have reported struggles with mental health and finding a supportive community. One student shared their experience of finding it difficult to navigate the university's health services and expressed concerns about the cost of accommodation. They also noted that the atmosphere could feel less friendly after the initial welcome week, and having a small group of good friends can make a positive difference.
To support student mental health and well-being, BU offers a range of resources. The university's Student Health Services provide support for physical and mental health, including counselling and psychological services. Additionally, the university's website features a section dedicated to mental health and wellness, offering guidance, tips, and resources for students to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
BU also encourages students to actively contribute to campus life and engage with the wider community. The university's founding principles emphasise the value of diversity and its commitment to serving the local and international community through research, scholarship, and artistic creation. Students are invited to reflect on how they can contribute to campus life, whether through academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, or student leadership roles.
Overall, student life at BU offers a mix of academic rigour, social opportunities, and challenges. While students can benefit from the university's diverse community and resources, it is important to be proactive in seeking support for mental health and well-being.
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Student-to-faculty ratio
Boston University (BU) has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, which is considered low for a university with over 17,000 undergraduates. This ratio is one of the reasons BU is ranked among the world's top universities. The low student-to-faculty ratio means that students benefit from more face-to-face time with professors and faculty members, which can be advantageous for those seeking research opportunities or more personalised learning experiences.
BU's faculty members are known for their excellence in research and scholarship, with faculty research being conducted on every continent. This contributes to the university's dynamic engagement with the City of Boston and the wider world, in line with its founding principles. BU's commitment to research and scholarship is reflected in its extensive range of undergraduate schools and colleges, offering diverse academic programmes and specialisations.
The Psychology major, for example, provides students with the opportunity to conduct directed research under the supervision of a faculty member on various topics, including childhood development, autism, and substance abuse. Similarly, the Business Administration major includes an accounting concentration that prepares students for ethical organisational leadership and sound decision-making in the business world.
BU's student-to-faculty ratio also contributes to its vibrant and collaborative campus community. With students from nearly 100 countries and alumni living in over 185 countries, the university fosters a diverse and inclusive environment that enriches the student experience. The university guarantees on-campus housing for all four years of the undergraduate experience, with 75% of students taking up this offer, further enhancing the sense of community.
Overall, the low student-to-faculty ratio at BU enables students to benefit from increased access to faculty members, enriching their academic and research endeavours and contributing to a supportive and diverse campus community.
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Extracurricular activities
Boston University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students to engage in. With over 450 student groups, clubs, and organizations, there are endless opportunities to pursue one's interests and passions.
Student Groups and Organizations
Boston University offers a diverse range of student groups and organizations catering to various interests and passions. These groups provide opportunities for students to connect with others who share similar interests, as well as gain valuable skills and experiences. Some examples include the Ad Club, Engineers Without Borders, Public Relations Student Society of America, and the Zen Community. Students are also encouraged to start their own groups if they don't find one that aligns with their interests.
Political and Social Activism
BU offers numerous avenues for students interested in political and social activism. Students can participate in student government at various levels, including Boston University Student Government, School and College Student Governments, and Residence Hall Associations (RHAs). Additionally, there are political groups such as the College Democrats, College Republicans, and the NAACP, where students can engage in political discourse and advocate for their beliefs.
Community Service and Volunteering
The BU Community Service Center (CSC) provides over 1,500 volunteer opportunities to make a difference in the greater Boston area and beyond. Students can participate in the First-Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP) and Alternative Service Break (ASB) programs, which offer a range of issue areas to work on, such as children, human rights, and the environment. The Howard Thurman Center also promotes social and spiritual growth through programs and events that foster meaningful connections and friendships.
Media and Creative Outlets
BU students can explore their creative side through various media outlets, including the student-run publications The Daily Free Press, BU Buzz, and Off The Cuff. WTBU, the university's student radio station, offers a platform for music enthusiasts. Meanwhile, BUTV10 showcases award-winning video content, including the longest-running collegiate soap opera, Bay State.
Sports and Recreation
For those interested in sports and recreation, BU offers intramural sports leagues and tournaments open to students, faculty, and staff. The Fitness & Recreation Center (FitRec) provides fitness and recreation opportunities for the BU community. Additionally, BU Central hosts events such as comedy shows, film screenings, and trips to sporting events like Boston Red Sox and New England Revolution games.
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Student accommodation
Boston University guarantees on-campus housing for all four years of undergraduate study, and 75% of students take up this offer. On-campus residences include historic brownstones on Bay State Road, modern high-rises overlooking the Charles River, and residence halls with dedicated specialty floors.
There is a broad and eclectic mix of residences, all of which are safe and secure. Students can choose from a variety of living communities, including large and vibrant housing communities or smaller groups of neighbours.
Students who prefer to live off-campus can find an abundance of options near the university, including private apartments, shared rooms, and ensuite or non-ensuite rooms. Some popular options include 1253 Beacon St, 1047 Commonwealth, Imprint, and New England Conservatory of Music. These apartments are well-furnished and provide a comfortable living space to support a student's academic journey.
It is recommended to book early to secure fantastic discounts and lower rent. Most off-campus housing options include bills in the rent, so students only need to worry about paying rent and not any additional utility costs. Students can also leverage discounts and cashback from group bookings.
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Frequently asked questions
Boston University is known for its engaging campus culture, with diverse clubs and activities. The university is located in the heart of Boston, with two primary campuses and programs around the world. The city of Boston adds to the buzz of campus life, with students taking advantage of the city's vibrant culture.
There are over 500 student clubs at Boston University, including literary clubs, rocket clubs, music clubs, and dozens of intramural and club sports. There are also shows and lectures, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a thriving ice hockey team.
The social scene at Boston University can be intense, with a vibrant party culture and varying degrees of involvement in Greek life. While there are plenty of opportunities for socialising, some students have reported feeling isolated due to the lack of a traditional campus feel.
Boston University is a prestigious, leading private research institution with excellent academic and professional opportunities. However, some students have reported that professors don't give much attention to students, and that grades are lower on average compared to comparable schools.
The dining hall at Boston University is reportedly better than most, although some students find it repetitive.
