Is Boston College or Boston University Better? Why Choose Boston College? Why Choose Boston University? Tables
Boston College (BC) and Boston University (BU) are two of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Both schools offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and they both have strong reputations for academic excellence. But which school is better?
There is no easy answer to this question. Both BC and BU have their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best school for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Academics
BC and BU are both highly ranked universities. According to the 2023 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, BC is ranked 33rd overall and 23rd among national universities. BU is ranked 42nd overall and 28th among national universities.
Both schools offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. BC has 8 schools and colleges, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors and 100 graduate programs. BU has 17 schools and colleges, offering more than 250 undergraduate majors and 400 graduate programs.
Student Life
BC and BU both have vibrant student life. Both schools offer a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities. BC has more than 250 student organizations, while BU has more than 400.
Both schools also have a strong athletic tradition. BC is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), while BU is a member of the Patriot League.
Location
BC is located in Chestnut Hill, a quiet and affluent suburb of Boston. BU is located in the heart of Boston, in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood.
Cost
The cost of attendance at BC and BU is comparable. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the total cost of attendance for an undergraduate student at BC is $77,620. The total cost of attendance for an undergraduate student at BU is $77,800.
Which School Is Right for You?
The best way to decide which school is right for you is to visit both campuses and talk to students and faculty. You should also consider your own academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- What are my academic interests?
- What are my career goals?
- What kind of campus environment do I want?
- What kind of student life do I want?
- How much can I afford to spend on college?
Once you have answered these questions, you can start to narrow down your choices.
BC is a great choice for students who are looking for a challenging academic experience in a supportive and collaborative environment. The school has a strong reputation for its undergraduate teaching, and its faculty are dedicated to helping students succeed.
BC also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and opportunities. The school has more than 250 student organizations, clubs, and activities, as well as a strong athletic tradition.
BC is located in a quiet and affluent suburb of Boston, which provides a great place to live and study. The school is also close to the city of Boston, which offers a wide range of cultural and entertainment options.
BU is a great choice for students who are looking for a research-intensive university with a wide range of academic programs and opportunities. The school has a strong reputation for its graduate programs, and its faculty are world-renowned scholars.
BU also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and opportunities. The school has more than 400 student organizations, clubs, and activities, as well as a strong athletic tradition.
BU is located in the heart of Boston, which provides students with easy access to the city’s many cultural and entertainment options. The school is also close to a number of public transportation options, which makes it easy to get around the city.
Feature | Boston College | Boston University |
---|---|---|
Ranking (U.S. News & World Report) | 33rd overall, 23rd among national universities | 42nd overall, 28th among national universities |
Number of undergraduate majors | 50+ | 250+ |
Number of graduate programs | 100+ | 400+ |
Student-faculty ratio | 11:1 | 12:1 |
Percentage of undergraduate students who live on campus | 65% | 55% |
Total cost of attendance (2023-2024) | $77,620 | $77,800 |