The eternal debate between two of Boston's most prestigious institutions: Boston College and Boston University. Both universities have a rich history, academic excellence, and a strong reputation, making it challenging to determine which one is "better." In this article, we'll delve into the details of each university, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
History and Mission
Boston College (BC) was founded in 1863 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) with the mission of providing a liberal arts education to the sons of Irish immigrants. Today, BC is a private Jesuit research university with a strong commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and community service.
Boston University (BU), on the other hand, was founded in 1839 by a group of Methodists with the goal of providing a comprehensive education to the people of Boston. BU is a private research university with a diverse student body and a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and academic innovation.
Academics
Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with BC having a slightly more extensive list of majors. BC is particularly renowned for its strong programs in business, law, and nursing, while BU is recognized for its excellence in engineering, computer science, and public health.
Here's a brief overview of each university's academic strengths:
- Boston College:
- Carroll School of Management (business)
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development
- Connell School of Nursing
- Law School
- Boston University:
- College of Engineering
- Questrom School of Business
- School of Public Health
- College of Communication
Rankings and Accreditation
Both universities are accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and have impressive rankings in various categories. Here are some notable rankings:
- Boston College:
- Ranked #34 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report (2022)
- Ranked #23 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report (2022)
- Boston University:
- Ranked #40 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report (2022)
- Ranked #27 in Top Performers on Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2022)
Campus Life
Both universities have a strong sense of community and offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations.
- Boston College:
- 150+ student organizations
- 30+ varsity sports teams
- Strong commitment to community service and social justice
- Boston University:
- 500+ student organizations
- 24 varsity sports teams
- State-of-the-art recreational facilities
Location
Both universities are located in the heart of Boston, with BC situated in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood and BU in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood. Both locations offer easy access to public transportation, cultural attractions, and internship opportunities.
Cost and Financial Aid
Both universities are private institutions with a high cost of attendance. However, they also offer generous financial aid packages to help make them more affordable.
- Boston College:
- Total annual cost: around $73,000
- Average financial aid package: around $43,000
- Boston University:
- Total annual cost: around $72,000
- Average financial aid package: around $39,000
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between Boston College and Boston University depends on your individual priorities, interests, and goals. Both universities offer a world-class education, a strong sense of community, and a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
If you're looking for a more intimate campus setting with a strong commitment to social justice and community service, Boston College might be the better fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a larger, more diverse student body and a wider range of academic programs, Boston University could be the way to go.
Gallery of Boston College and Boston University
FAQs
Which university is more expensive?
+Both universities are private institutions with a high cost of attendance. However, Boston College is slightly more expensive, with a total annual cost of around $73,000 compared to Boston University's total annual cost of around $72,000.
Which university has a stronger athletic program?
+Both universities have strong athletic programs, but Boston College's athletic teams, the Eagles, have a slightly better overall record and more NCAA championships.
Which university is more diverse?
+Boston University has a slightly more diverse student body, with a higher percentage of international students and students from underrepresented minority groups.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the similarities and differences between Boston College and Boston University. Ultimately, the decision between these two excellent institutions depends on your individual priorities and goals.