Are you having trouble deciding whether to include Boston College or Boston University in your college applications? Here at Empowerly, we have compiled information about both schools to help you decide if Boston College or Boston University is the better choice. The city of Boston is home to many colleges and universities. Luckily, you have narrowed your choices to two great institutions, BU and BC. The better school is majorly dependent on individual preferences and goals. This article will guide you through your decision-making process to end the BC vs. BU conundrum. Make sure you are aware of the financial aid opportunities and deadlines for both schools.
About Boston
Boston is the state capital of Massachusetts. It is the most populated city in the state and the 24th most populous city overall in the United States. By choosing either BC or BU, you can experience the pleasures of studying in a well-developed city. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston also boasts several attractions that you can explore. There are several historical attractions you can visit, like Scandinavian Cultural Center, Turkish Cultural Centers, and among others.
Furthermore, you can go sightseeing at the Boston Museum of Art, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Symphony Hall, the Museum of Science, and the New England Aquarium. For sports fans, the city of Boston has teams in four major sports leagues: the NBA, NFL, MLB, and the NHL. Other sporting events hosted by the city are the Boston Marathon, Head of Charles Regatta, Disney on Ice, and Cirque du Soleil. There is always an activity going on in this vibrant city.
Boston is a fantastic city with many institutions of higher learning. You might be wondering how many universities, exactly, are in Boston. Believe it or not, there are 35 different colleges, universities, and community colleges in the city alone. Also, many acclaimed universities are found in areas nearby the city and its surrounding areas, including Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Emerson College, Northeastern University, and Tufts University.
Boston College vs. Boston University Education System
About Boston College
Boston College is the first tertiary institution established in the city of Boston, founded on March 31, 1863. It is a Jesuit Catholic University that runs four-year degree programs. The school’s ideals encourage students to explore and learn about the world while simultaneously providing acts of selflessness to others. It is a leading university in the liberal arts, scientific inquiry, and student formation.
BC has an undergraduate enrollment of 9,532 students. In fall 2021, the total enrollment of students in the institution was 15,046. Over 90% of faculty members at BC have doctoral degrees, and there is a 1:10 ratio of faculty to students. In addition, 49.4% of classes in BC are filled with less than 20 students. As a result, students will benefit from small classes and be able to converse with facilitators easily.
About Boston University
Boston University is a global higher learning institution that offers programs on six continents. Undoubtedly in the BC vs. BU debate, BU is the more prominent school that offers a broader range of programs with the presence of several schools and colleges.
In fall 2022, the university has a total student number of 36,809. There is a 1:11 faculty-to-student ratio, which means that the school is not overpopulated and can efficiently handle the large numbers of students admitted. There is an average size of 30 students per class, so you can be sure that your lecture rooms will not be overcrowded.
Boston College: Academic Programs
There are eight undergraduate and graduate schools at BC, which are commonly called by their abbreviations.
- Carroll School of Management (CSOM)
- Connell School of Nursing (CSON)
- Boston College Law School (LAW)
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development (Lynch)
- Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences (MCAS)
- School of Social Work (SSW)
- School of Theology and Ministry (STM)
- Woods College of Advancing Studies (WCAS)
Between each of these schools, the academic institution offers over a hundred undergraduate programs. The most popular majors at Boston College are General Economics, Finance, Biology/Biological Sciences, and Political Science and Government.
Besides major, minors, and elective courses, BC requires all college undergraduates to complete its compulsory Core Curriculum. The Core Curriculum comprises 15 core requirements in one or two courses from 10 different subjects. The subjects are Arts, History, Mathematics, Philosophy, Theology, Cultural Diversity, Literature, Natural Science, Social Science, and Writing. Undergraduates are not required to declare a major immediately. Instead, they have until the end of their sophomore year. This rule allows students to discover themselves before they lock in a major.
BC has a higher admission rate than BU at 26.4%. The majority of admissions in BC are for undergraduate students. Although BC also offers graduate degrees, the population of students tilts considerably toward undergrads.
Boston University: Academic Programs
There are 17 colleges and schools at BU that offer well over 300 programs.
- College of Arts & Sciences
- College of Communication
- College of Engineering
- College of Fine Arts
- College of General Studies
- College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College
- Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences
- Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies
- Questrom School of Business
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- School of Public Health
- School of Social Work
- School of Theology
- Wheelock College of Education & Human Development
- Division of Military Education
The most popular majors at BU are Social Sciences, Business, Management, and Marketing. Similarly to Boston College, BU does not require its freshmen to select a major immediately. Instead, they have until the end of their sophomore year to pick one. All students are required to complete standardized mandatory introductory courses and choose selected upper-level electives.
Boston University has an acceptance rate of 20.1%. It is slightly lower than that of BC. Regarding the distribution rate of students at the institution, BU has a more even distribution as there are similar numbers of undergraduate and graduate students. In the BC vs. BU debate, BU wins in this aspect.
Boston College vs. Boston University Location
BC and BU are both located in the city of Boston. However, they are in different regions. BC is located on Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, while BU is in the more populated part of the city, with only 11 minutes separating the two institutions of higher learning.
Boston College offers the experience of city life without the daily stress of living in the city. BU has two campuses, the Newton campus, and the Brighton campus. In BC vs. BU campus size comparison, BC wins with 340 acres of land dedicated to their campuses. It also boasts old magnificent buildings. In BC, housing on the school’s campus is guaranteed for students for the first two years of their studies. Students are booted off campus in the third year to find accommodations outside. However, they are allowed back on campus in the fourth and final year. Seniors will typically get priority when selecting housing on campus.
Boston University has a big campus spanning over 135 acres, smaller than BC’s. The campus has two different sections. One section is dedicated to academic buildings and activities, while the other is reserved for athletic facilities. There are several dorms and apartments owned by the school. From old traditional buildings to modern high rises, BU gives students the option to select the ideal living conditions they desire. Unlike BC, housing in BU is reserved for students throughout all four years of their program.
Extracurricular Activities
Boston College Extracurriculars and Sports: Extracurriculars and sports are excellent ways to meet new people with shared interests. BC has over 300 organizations that students can select from. These clubs focus on different fields across STEM, arts, activism, music, dance, social justice, business, and many more. The opportunity is available to learn new skills like leadership and public speaking. Also, BC has intercollegiate division I teams, club sports, and different sporting programs.
Boston University Extracurriculars and Sports: BU has more extracurricular student activities than BC. With over 500 student organizations to choose from, you are sure to find an activity that interests you. Furthermore, BU has a more prominent global reach, making it possible to have organizations focusing on outreach programs. You can also join volunteer organizations in the school. Additionally, unlike Boston College, BU has an active Greek life with fraternities and sororities on its campuses. However, the influence of Greek life is limited in the school, with only ten percent of students participating in it.
Boston College or Boston University, Which is Better?
Here, we have highlighted the strengths of both schools and made comparisons to determine which is the better school based on your interests.
Boston College is an excellent choice for students who:
- Want to live close to a city without dealing with the stress of living there.
- Enjoy social interactions in a smaller campus community.
- Are looking for a conservative Jesuit education – interested in personal, intellectual, and spiritual growth.
- Plan on taking a program related to business.
- Want a tight-knit relationship with your college – BC has well-connected alumni networks.
Choosing to attend Boston College offers numerous benefits and advantages for students seeking a transformative college experience. Known for its strong academic reputation and commitment to a well-rounded education, Boston College provides students with a solid foundation for future success. The university’s rigorous liberal arts curriculum fosters critical thinking, intellectual growth, and the development of well-rounded individuals who are prepared to excel in their chosen fields.
One of the key advantages of attending Boston College is its strong sense of community and tight-knit campus environment. With a relatively small student population, Boston College fosters a close-knit community where students can form lasting relationships, engage in meaningful discussions, and receive personalized attention from faculty members. The smaller class sizes enable more interaction with professors, promoting a collaborative and engaging learning experience that encourages active participation and individual growth.
Boston College offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, providing students with ample opportunities to pursue their interests and passions. Whether in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or professional fields, Boston College’s academic offerings are designed to challenge students intellectually and prepare them for their chosen career paths. The university’s renowned faculty members are experts in their respective fields, ensuring a high-quality education and mentorship for students.
Boston College’s location in the vibrant city of Boston provides students with access to countless opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and career development. Boston is a hub for various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and education, offering a wealth of internship and job prospects for Boston College students. Additionally, the city’s rich cultural scene, historical landmarks, and vibrant social environment provide students with a diverse range of experiences outside of the classroom, further enriching their college years.
In summary, attending Boston College offers a range of benefits, including a strong academic reputation, a close-knit community, diverse academic programs, and access to a vibrant city with numerous professional opportunities. Boston College provides a well-rounded education that combines rigorous academics with personal growth and a supportive community, preparing students for success in their careers and lives beyond college.
Boston University is an excellent choice for students who:
- Enjoy living in the heart of the city and partaking in city exploration.
- Want a longer list of optional extracurricular activities.
- Are interested in experiencing Greek life by joining a fraternity or sorority.
- Look forward to obtaining research opportunities, and you are career oriented.
- Are searching for a diverse school with students from different parts of the world, plus a friendly LGBTQ community.
- Want the whole experience of fun activities, clubs and organizations, and opportunities available in the school.
Choosing to attend Boston University provides students with a host of benefits and advantages that contribute to a rewarding college experience. Renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to innovation, Boston University offers a wide range of programs and opportunities to cater to diverse interests and career goals. Students at Boston University receive a rigorous education delivered by esteemed faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, preparing them for success in their chosen professions.
Boston University’s prime location in the heart of Boston presents students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking, and career advancement. Boston is a vibrant city known for its thriving industries in finance, technology, healthcare, and the arts. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, Boston University students can engage in real-world experiences, gain practical skills, and build a professional network that extends beyond graduation. The city’s rich cultural scene and diverse communities also offer a wealth of extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal growth.
A distinguishing feature of Boston University is its commitment to research and innovation. The university boasts cutting-edge facilities and research centers, providing students with the resources and mentorship needed to engage in groundbreaking research projects. Whether in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, or arts, Boston University encourages students to explore their passions and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. By participating in research initiatives, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to think creatively.
Boston University’s diverse and inclusive community is another significant benefit for students. With a student body that represents over 130 countries, Boston University offers a multicultural and globally-focused environment. Interacting with students from different backgrounds and perspectives enhances cultural awareness, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world. The university also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to diverse interests, allowing students to pursue their passions, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships.
In summary, attending Boston University offers a range of benefits, including academic excellence, access to professional opportunities in a thriving city, a commitment to research and innovation, and a diverse and inclusive community. Boston University’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, practical experiences, and global engagement prepares students to become well-rounded professionals who can make a positive impact in their chosen fields. Whether through academics, career development, research, or cultural experiences, Boston University provides students with a transformative education that equips them for success in an ever-changing world.
Despite the similarities and differences, both schools are great options for higher education in one of the nation’s preeminent cities.
Madeleine Karydes
Julia de Raadt