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As the 15thlargest state by population, it is the sixth smallest state by land mass at just over 10,000 square miles. Massachusetts is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Simply put, Massachusetts is home to one of the finest collections of private colleges in the United States. The quality of private universities in the state is a combination of top-tier large schools and highly regarded smaller institutions. Top ranked private colleges in Massachusetts include the following schools in the state: Harvard University, Tufts University, Worchester Polytechnic Institute, Northeastern University, Suffolk University, MIT, Brandeis University, Boston College, Cambridge College, Bay State College, Babson College, Franklin Institute, Berklee College of Music, and Boston University.

2024 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts

Harvard University is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. One of the top "Ivy League" universities, Harvard's reputation was built on its liberal arts curriculum, particularly at the undergraduate level, and has always boasted an acclaimed faculty of scholars in the liberal arts. It continues to offer excellent undergraduate programs, with 44 fields of study offered at the bachelor's degree level. Over the years, Harvard also has gained a reputation for its excellent graduate programs and professional schools.

Most departments offer a tutorial style of teaching and learning, with a good teacher to student ratio. Tutorials, which are taught individually or in small groups, are directed courses of study in a field of concentration.

Harvard University offers excellent facilities, including the largest university library in the world, many museums, and more than 20 scientific and laboratory centers.

The "prominent alumni" list for Harvard reads like a "Who's Who" of iconic figures from American and international societies, culture, politics, and nearly every field or industry over more than 100 years. The alumni list boasts 44 Nobel laureates, among other luminaries. From President John F. Kennedy to President Barack Obama, and composer-conductor Leonard Bernstein to cellist Yo Yo Ma, and author and activist Helen Keller to author-historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., and diplomat Henry Kissinger, among others, the list is an impressive one.

History

The university's name came from its first donor, minister John Harvard of Charlestown. He died in 1638, leaving his library and half his estate to the institution of higher education that was established in 1636.

The history of Harvard University is a storied one. Those who wish to learn more about its history can visit the Harvard University Archives.

Academics

The academic calendar of Harvard University follows the semester format, with fall and spring "terms," and summer "school" (or session).

Colleges and Schools

  • Harvard Business School
  • Harvard College
  • Harvard University Division of Continuing Education
  • Harvard School of Dental Medicine
  • Graduate School of Design
  • Harvard Divinity School
  • Harvard Graduate School of Education
  • Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
  • Harvard Kennedy School of Government
  • Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
  • Harvard Law School
  • Harvard Medical School
  • Harvard School of Public Health
  • Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study

Student Life

Students at Harvard University have many student services available, and many activities and living options to choose from. Residential housing is offered, providing a small college atmosphere at the university. Each of the 12 residential "houses" is well staffed, and offers dormitories and dining halls, as well as libraries, social events and intramural athletic teams.  Off campus housing is also available.

There are nearly 200 student-run organizations, groups, clubs and programs on Harvard's campus. There are close to 100 plays or musical performances offered by students each year. Two student newspapers offer plenty of opportunity for involvement, in addition to the many journals that are also produced at the university. Community service is encouraged through two programs: the Phillips Brooks House Association and the House and Neighborhood Development (HAND) program.  Mentorship is strong at Harvard, and students living on or off campus have faculty mentors available to them through various programs.

The facilities available to Harvard students are among the best at any university in the world. There are nearly 14 million volumes in the Harvard library system, and roughly 100 collections. More than 20 buildings are dedicated to scientific research in the areas of astronomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, engineering, geology and physics.  The university has many museums on campus, housing renowned art collections.  Its natural history museum is also well known.

Traditions

In 1875, Crimson was chosen as both the school color for Harvard, and its nickname for athletics teams. The school chose white for its second school color the same year.

In 1884, Harvard athletes began the tradition of waving a little red flag during any game they play against Yale.

Athletics

"The Crimson" athletics teams of Harvard compete in numerous intercollegiate sports, and have won championships in many. The sports that Crimson athletes compete in include:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Heavyweight Crew
  • Lightweight Crew
  • Cross Country
  • Fencing
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Ice Hockey
  • Lacrosse
  • Sailing
  • Skiing
  • Soccer
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball
  • Water Polo
  • Wrestling

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Heavyweight Crew
  • Lightweight Crew
  • Cross Country
  • Fencing
  • Field Hockey
  • Golf
  • Ice Hockey
  • Lacrosse
  • Sailing
  • Skiing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Squash
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball
  • Water Polo

Satellite Campuses

Although there is only one campus for Harvard University, its many buildings, divisions and schools are spread throughout Cambridge. Harvard's campus facilities are located on both sides of the Charles River in Cambridge.  The Harvard Yard, (or "The Yard") is at the center of the campus and is the hub of Harvard's campus activities.

Community Life

The charms of Cambridge, Boston and New England as a whole, are many. Cambridge offers the ambiance of a small town in New England with its town greens, grassy riverbanks along the Charles River and charming town squares offering wonderful restaurants, unique shops, sidewalk cafes, and more.

Boston is a cosmopolitan city vibrant with history and culture.  Cobbled streets and church spires of colonial times are juxtaposed against modern architecture and high rises, offering a diversity that most visitors find stimulating. Concerts and live performances in theatre and classical music, museums and galleries, out door recreation and a world-renowned waterfront offer many opportunities for activities and entertainment. Students and visitors alike will enjoy the many areas that are within easy distance of Harvard.

Enrollment

31,566

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Amherst College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Amherst, MA, which is a predominantly rural area. Enrollment at Amherst College exceeds a thousand per year.

Areas of study available at Amherst College include but are not limited to:

  • Social Sciences
  • English Language And Literature
  • Psychology
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • History

To be considered for admissions, you may be asked to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit test scores or other school records, which are then studied by admissions officials. An ACT or SAT exam is required prior to applying, with scores between 1990 - 2300 for the SAT exam and between 30 - 34 for the ACT exam is common among students accepted to Amherst College. Only 13 percent of applicants are admitted to the school due to the huge number of applicants for the limited enrollment spaces available. More information regarding admissions can be found at amherst.edu.

Undergraduate tuition is approximately $47,000 annually, though it may vary based on any number of circumstances. Students should check the school's net price calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. On-campus housing is available for students, which costs about $6,700 for the year. Students at Amherst College may be eligible for aid which is typically scholarships, grants, and loans.

The mascot for Amherst College is the "Lord Jeffs", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through the NCAA. Available sports offered may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

Students who would like to see more about Amherst College can check out their website at http://www.amherst.edu.

Enrollment

1,855

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a nonprofit private institution located in Cambridge, MA and provides a large number of degree programs for students. Approximately 11,000 students are enrolled annually at MIT.

Students may pick from a few areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Engineering
  • Computer And Information Sciences
  • Mathematics And Statistics
  • Physical Sciences

To be considered for admissions, applicants may be asked to complete an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit test scores or other school records, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. The majority of students admitted to MIT achieve an SAT score within the range of 2090 - 2340, or an ACT score within the range of 32 - 35. Competition runs high for admissions, given that only 10% of students who applied are accepted to the school. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

Undergraduate tuition is approximately $45,000 annually, though it may vary based on any number of circumstances. Students should visit the school's net price calculator to find what your personalized cost of attendance would be. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is estimated to be $8,000. MIT may provide financial aid for students that are eligible in the form of grants and loans.

The MIT Engineers participate in a number of intercollegiate athletic programs, as part of the NCAA organization. Athletic programs available may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Fencing (NCAA Division III)

Students who would like to view more about MIT can check out their website at http://web.mit.edu/student/.

Enrollment

11,574

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

Williams College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Williamstown, MA, which is a predominantly rural area. Over 2,100 students enroll at Williams College yearly.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Social Sciences
  • English Language And Literature
  • Psychology
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

The admissions process starts with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. A SAT or ACT exam is required prior to applying, with scores within the range of 1310 - 1530 on the SAT and between 29 - 34 on the ACT is typical among students admitted to Williams College. Admission to this school is considered highly competitive, with only 20% of applicants on average being admitted per year. More information on admissions can be found at admission.williams.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is close to $48,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and that is why students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to get a better idea of their cost of attendance. Housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is about $6,400. Some students at Williams College may qualify for financial aid, which is typically provided as scholarships, grants, and loans.

The Williams College "Ephs" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Sports available may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Football (NCAA Division III)

Enrollment

2,149

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Tufts University provides a variety of degree programs for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Medford, Massachusetts and operated as a private institution. Approximately 10,000 students are enrolled yearly at Tufts University.

Areas of study available at Tufts University include:

  • Social Sciences
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Visual And Performing Arts
  • Psychology

Students applying for admission are asked to submit an application, transcripts, standardized test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by the admissions committee. Students may take either the SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admissions at this school. A score between 2040 to 2260 on the SAT, or 30 to 33 for the ACT is usually submitted among accepted students. Competition for admissions among applicants is high, given that only 20% of students who applied are accepted to the school. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $47,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and therefore students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to get a better idea of their cost of attendance. On-campus housing is available for students, and generally costs around $6,800 each year. Students at Tufts University may be eligible for aid which is generally scholarships, grants, and loans.

The Tufts University "Jumbos" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Fencing (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Football (NCAA Division III)

Contact information, financial aid information, programs, and much more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.tufts.edu.

Enrollment

11,586

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

About
Boston College, located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, was founded in 1863, and is one of the 568 private Jesuit institutions that comprise the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. The school's undergraduate is ranked among the best in the United States, as well as an active research institution that works closely with the Carnegie Foundation. The school maintains a tradition of excellence in education, which traces its mandate to its Jesuit origins.An example of the school's high standard for education can be seen in the number of Fulbright Scholar's it has produced, ranking eighth among all colleges and universities in the United States. Also notable is the school's architecture, which provides an early glimpse into gothic style for collegiate institutions.

Academics
Boston College offers degrees beginning at the bachelor degree level all the way to the doctoral. Bachelor degree programs offer students an undergraduate education that is comprised of upper and lower division major courses, electives and general education requirements. Students may also pursue minor degrees or double major, both of which require additional courses of study in a secondary field, with a second major requiring much more extensive study in order to complete.

Graduate and doctoral programs have separate requirements for admissions, and provide a more in depth study in a particular area, often allowing students to pursue specialization. Students studying at this level may choose to become involved in research as part of their education. The length of programs may vary, but typically take between one and three years.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Boston College requires students to complete an application that includes the submission of transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. The students application will be reviewed by the school, with a decision being made by committee. Once decided, the student will be notified, and if admitted will be provided information in order to begin their enrollment. Graduate level admissions requires students to have earned a lower level degree, to have maintained a certain academic standard, and to have scored highly on graduate level examinations.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Aid is awarded based on need as determined by the applicants information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Aid must be applied for each academic year due to shifting financial circumstances. Students are also required to maintain a minimum GPA in order to continue receiving aid. All aid forms should be completed prior to posted deadlines to ensure timely disbursement of funds.

Enrollment

14,720

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Babson College is located in Wellesley, MA and is a nonprofit private institution that provides opportunities for students to meet their educational goals. Babson College has an annual student enrollment of approximately three thousand.

The school offers two programs of study in the areas of Business Administration and Accounting. Students applying for admission are generally asked to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the admissions staff. Students may take either the ACT or SAT exam scores to be considered for admissions at this school. A score within the range of 1830 - 2120 on the SAT, or 27 - 31 for the ACT is common among accepted students. 34% of students that apply are accepted to this school, of which 28% choose to enroll.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is nearly $44,000, but may change each year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's price of attendance calculator to better understand their cost of attendance. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is about $9,500. Students enrolled at Babson College may qualify for aid which is usually loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The mascot for Babson College is the "Beavers", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through oversight by the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

Students can take a look at the school's http://www.babson.edu to view additional information.

Enrollment

3,357

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Wellesley College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Wellesley, MA, which is a predominantly suburban area. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled yearly at Wellesley College.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Social Sciences
  • Psychology
  • English Language And Literature
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, student records, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions office. Most students accepted to Wellesley College earn an SAT score between 1950 - 2240, or an ACT composite score between 29 - 32. An estimated 30 percent of all applicant were admitted at this school, with 42 percent of those admitted choosing to enroll. More information on admissions can be found here.

Tuition is approximately $45,000 per year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students should check the school's price of attendance calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is about $7,000. This school may help with costs by offering financial aid for students who are eligible as grants and loans.

The Wellesley College "Blue" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA.

Students may take a look at the school's http://www.wellesley.edu to see additional information.

Enrollment

2,534

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

College of the Holy Cross is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Worcester, MA, which is a predominantly urban area. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Nearly two thousand students enroll at College of the Holy Cross annually.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Social Sciences
  • Psychology
  • English Language And Literature
  • History
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

Students applying for admission are required to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the admissions committee. College of the Holy Cross admits approximately 30% of applicants yearly. Of those admitted, around 31% registered for enrollment. More information on admissions can be found at admissions.holycross.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $46,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to visit the school's tuition calculator to better understand their cost of attending this school. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is about $6,600. Some students at College of the Holy Cross may be eligible for financial aid, which is typically offered as grants or student loans.

The College of the Holy Cross "Crusaders" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available sports offered may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Football (NCAA Division I-AA)

Students may take a look at the school's http://www.holycross.edu to view additional information.

Enrollment

2,939

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Bentley College is a nonprofit private college that has a large number of programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Waltham, MA, in a predominantly urban area. Enrollment at Bentley College is nearly five thousand annually.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Computer And Information Sciences
  • Mathematics And Statistics
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Liberal Arts And Sciences

Students applying for admission are usually required to submit an application, transcripts, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. Very common scores among students admitted to Bentley College are between 25 to 29 for the ACT exam, or 1640 to 1935 on the SAT exam. 43% of those who apply are accepted to this school, of which 31% choose to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found at undergraduate.bentley.edu.

The cost of tuition is close to $42,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and that is why students should visit the school's price of attendance calculator to get a better idea of their costs. The cost of on-campus housing is estimated to be $8,300 per year. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements by way of grants or student loans.

The Bentley College "Falcons" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division II)

For a complete list of areas of study, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please take a look at the school's website at http://www.bentley.edu.

Enrollment

5,460

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

WPI provides a variety of program options for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Worcester, MA and operated as a private institution. Worcester Polytechnic Institute has an annual student enrollment of nearly 5,400. Students may pick from a few areas of study, including:

  • Engineering
  • Computer And Information Sciences
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
Students applying for admission are asked to submit an application, transcripts, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the admissions staff. Worcester Polytechnic Institute admits around 60 percent of students applying. Of those accepted, nearly 25 percent of students enrolled. More information regarding admissions can be found here by accessing the school's website at wpi.edu. The cost of tuition is close to $44,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to use the school's price of attendance calculator to better understand their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for students that want to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $7,700 each year. Worcester Polytechnic Institute may provide financial aid for students who qualify as grants and loans. The mascot for Worcester Polytechnic Institute is the "Engineers", and they participate in intercollegiate athletic programs through oversight by the NCAA. Sports available:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Football (NCAA Division III)
Students should visit the Worcester Polytechnic Institute website to see a complete list of programs offered, financial aid details, and more.

Enrollment

6,874

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Northeastern University (NEU) is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts known for offering interdisciplinary, experiential learning. Northeastern University offers a mix of experience-based learning programs that include a cooperative education program, student research, global learning and service learning. NEU has degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.  It offers 94 undergraduate programs and 169 graduate programs.  NEU is expanding its research programs to encompass the areas of health, security and sustainability.

What is unique about Northeastern is its 100-year-old "Co-op" program. Short for "cooperative education", the Co-op approach to education at Northeastern provides students with experiences in the U.S. and abroad that foster the development of a global perspective, along with knowledge and awareness. Through the Co-op program, students engage in 18 months of professional experience at a co-op partner site in the U.S. or in one of 50 countries around the world.

The faculty members of Northeastern University bring real-world experience to the classroom, and take an interdisciplinary approach to their teaching and their research. Students at Northeastern have ample opportunity to participate in research with the faculty in all degree programs, with access to advanced research facilities on and off campus.  Online learning is also offered, with the same level of scholarship as the campus-based programs.

The mission of Northeastern University:

To educate students for a life of fulfillment and accomplishment, and to create and translate knowledge to meet global and societal needs.

History

Northeastern University was founded in 1898.

Academics

The academic calendar for Northeastern University follows the semester format, with fall and spring semesters and a summer "term."

Colleges and Schools

  • College of Arts, Media and Design
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of Computer and Information Science
  • College of Engineering
  • Bouve College of Health Sciences
  • College of Professional Studies
  • College of Science
  • College of Social Sciences and Humanities
  • School of Law

Student Life

Students at Northeastern can become actively engaged on campus through the more than 260 student clubs and organizations that are offered. There are media groups, honor societies, intramural sports clubs, academic organizations, performing arts and professional organizations, and more.  There are many fraternities and sororities, campus events, activities and student services.  There are many opportunities for community partnerships, volunteer service, and participation in the AmeriCorps program.

On and off campus housing is available, along with several options for dining and a campus grocery store.  There is a 24/7 escort service to ensure student safety for those traversing the campus at night.

Athletics

The "Huskies" (Husky) athletic teams of Northeastern compete in 18 intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Ice Hockey
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Track and Field

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Field Hockey
  • Ice Hockey
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball

Community Life

The Northeastern University campus is located in the heart of Boston, and is accessible by public transportation. The Boston Logan airport is minutes away from campus, and many hotels are within walking distance or a short drive away.  Shopping, restaurants, entertainment and recreation are all within easy reach of the centrally located campus.

Enrollment

21,627

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

History

Smith College, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, was chartered in 1871 by Sophia Smith and opened its doors in 1875. Sophia Smith supplied the initial funds through an inheritance received with intent to provide women with an educational institution equal to that of men. Smith College is the largest of the Seven Sisters, a group of traditionally women's liberal arts colleges found in New England. Smith has gone through many revisions over its 130 year history, but has remained true to the tenets initially set forth, which is to provide a quality education and development for young women.

Academics

Smith College offers forty-one programs of study and prides itself on it's the experience and qualifications of its faculty. The school offers its own one year long study abroad programs in four European cities. Smith College is the only all female four year institution to offer a bachelor's degree in engineering.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Smith College determined who is accepted in the school by examining each and every applicant's qualities. Often they accept students that may prove unique or different from a standard enrollee, though all students at smith have demonstrated academic excellence prior to acceptance at the college.

Financial aid is available for eligible students. Students interested in obtaining financial aid should visit the Smith College website to obtain more information and determine eligibility.

Enrollment

2,903

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Boston University (BU) is a top-ranked, private institution of higher education located in Boston, Massachusetts.  BU offers undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs in more than 250 fields of study and is particularly known for its interdisciplinary programs, leading research, and excellent faculty.  Its faculty includes several Nobel Prize winners, a poet laureate, and a recipient of the MacArthur Foundation "Genius Award."

BU's main campus is its Charles River Campus, and its Medical Campus is nearby.  The total campus area is 133 acres, supporting 320 buildings, 487 classrooms, 23 libraries and more than 2,000 laboratories.  Despite its physical size, BU strives to have smaller class sizes, with a ratio of one teacher per 13 students.  The average class size for undergraduates is 27 students.

History

Boston University was established in 1869.

Academics

Boston University (BU) follows the semester academic calendar, with fall, spring and summer semesters.  BU offers 250 different programs of study from its 17 colleges and schools.

Colleges and Schools

  • College of Arts & Sciences
  • Graduate School of Arts & Science
  • College of Communication
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Fine Arts
  • College of General Studies
  • College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College
  • Metropolitan College
  • Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
  • School of Education
  • School of Hospitality Administration
  • School of Law
  • School of Management
  • School of Medicine
  • School of Public Health
  • School of Social Work
  • School of Theology

Student Life

Boston University has 80% of its undergraduates living on campus, which means there is a strong student community on campus.  Additionally, BU has more than 500 student activity groups that include academic, social, athletic, artistic, scientific and religious interests. BU is host to many annual events, including lectures and debates, music, comedy and drama.

There are several student publications, as well as WTBU, the student-run radio station, that encourage student participation.  A good way for students to connect with others, navigate the academic requirements or find out what's happening on and around campus is to access "Student Central" online.  This online resource provides access to academic bulletins, course descriptions, registration information, student health services, libraries, the student union, student links, a blackboard, the BU Bus schedule, BU maps, BU Bookstore hours, important dates, classes and amenities available at the FitRec Center, and more.

Athletics

The Boston University athletics department participates in 23 varsity sports.  The team mascot is the Boston Terrier, and BU's athletic teams are known as "The Terriers."

Men's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Crew
  • Cross Country
  • Ice Hockey
  • Soccer
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Wrestling

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Field Hockey
  • Golf
  • Ice Hockey
  • Lacrosse
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field

Community Life

The BU community is vibrant and busy, with a full calendar of activities to choose from including exhibits, lectures, social gatherings, year-round events offered at the Agganis Arena, performances at the Huntington Theatre Company, and more.  The FitRec Center offers individual or group exercise classes and state-of-the-art facilities for fitness and recreation.

Enrollment

34,657

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Brandeis University is a nonprofit private institution located in Waltham, MA and provides a large number of degree programs for students. Brandeis University has an annual student enrollment of over five thousand.

Areas of study offered at Brandeis University include:

  • Social Sciences
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Public Administration And Social Services
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Psychology

To be considered for admissions, students may be asked to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit any transcripts or test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. Most students accepted to Brandeis University earn an SAT score within the range of 1860 to 2170, or an ACT composite score within the range of 28 to 32. 40% of students that apply are admitted to this school, of which 24 percent choose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found at brandeis.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $46,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and that is why students should visit the school's price of attendance calculator to identify their cost of attendance. The cost of on-campus housing is approximately $7,200 annually. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The Brandeis University "Judges" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)

Contact information, admission forms, programs, and more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.brandeis.edu/.

Enrollment

5,800

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Mount Holyoke College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in South Hadley, MA, which is a predominantly suburban area. About two thousand students enroll at MHC yearly.

Students can choose from several areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • English Language And Literature
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • History

To be considered for admissions, applicants may be asked to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit school records, which are then evaluated by the admissions staff. Mount Holyoke College accepts about 50 percent of applicants. Of those students admitted, about 34 percent attended the school. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The cost of tuition is nearly $46,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and as such students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to identify their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for those that want to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $6,500 each year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements.

The mascot for MHC is the "Lyons", and they participate in intercollegiate athletic programs through the NCAA.

For a complete list of areas of study, programs, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please visit the school's website at http://www.mtholyoke.edu.

Enrollment

2,335

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Stonehill College provides a variety of degree programs for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Easton, MA and operated as a private institution. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Stonehill College has an annual student enrollment of over 2,600. Areas of study offered at Stonehill College include:

  • Psychology
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
Students applying for admission are asked to submit an application, transcripts, records, test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. Most common scores among applicants admitted to this school are in the range of 25 to 29 for the ACT exam, or 1110 to 1290 on the SAT exam. This school accepts around 70 percent of applicants annually. Of those students accepted, around 12 percent of students enrolled. More information on admissions can be found here. Undergraduate tuition is approximately $37,000 per year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students may visit the school's price of attendance calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. The cost of on-campus housing is around $8,600 per year. Students enrolled at this school may be eligible for aid which is generally scholarships, grants, and loans. Stonehill College has a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Available sports offered may include but not limited to:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)
Students should visit the Stonehill College website to see a complete list of areas of study, programs, financial aid details, and more.

Enrollment

2,556

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Emerson College, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of educational opportunities, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Boston, MA, the school resides in an urban setting for students to study in. Over four thousand students enroll at Emerson College yearly.

Areas of study available at Emerson College include but are not limited to:

  • English Language And Literature
  • Visual And Performing Arts
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Education

To be considered for admissions, students may be asked to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit school transcripts, which are then reviewed by admissions officials. Either the ACT or SAT exam can be taken in order to be able to apply to this school. Scores between 25 to 29 on the ACT or 1710 to 1990 on the SAT are needed to greatly increase the chance of acceptance. This school has an acceptance rate of about 48 percent of which only 25 percent chose to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found at emerson.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is around $36,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's net price calculator to better understand their cost of attendance. Some students at this school may be eligible for financial aid, which is typically offered as grants or student loans.

The Emerson College "Lions" compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Lacrosse (NCAA Division III)
  • Soccer (NCAA Division III)

Students may visit the school's http://www.emerson.edu to view additional information.

Enrollment

4,573

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Simmons College is a nonprofit private school that has a large selection of degrees available for students to choose from. The school is located in Boston, MA, in a predominantly urban area. Simmons College has an annual student enrollment of approximately 5,000.

Students can select from several areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • Library Science
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Public Administration And Social Services
  • Education
  • History

Students applying for admission are generally required to submit an application, transcripts, test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by admissions staff. Very common exam scores among students admitted to Simmons College are within the range of 22 to 26 on the ACT, or 1540 to 1850 on the SAT exam. Approximately 50 percent of all students that applied were accepted at this school, with 16 percent of those accepted choosing to attend. More information on admissions can be found here.

The cost of tuition is close to $37,000, but may change per year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's tuition calculator to better understand their personal tuition costs. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

Simmons College participates in intercollegiate athletic programs through the NCAA's Great Northeast Athletic Conference in Basketball.

Contact information, admission forms, areas of study, and much more may be viewed on school's website at http://www.simmons.edu.

Enrollment

6,082

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Clark University is a nonprofit private college that has a large selection of degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, in a predominantly urban area. Enrollment at Clark University is nearly three thousand per year. Here is a list of some of the popular programs Clark University offers:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Education
Students applying for admission are generally required to submit an application, transcripts, records, standardized test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by the school. This school has an admissions rate of 68 percent of which only 19 percent chose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found here. The cost of undergraduate tuition is close to $41,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and that is why students should use the school's net price calculator to identify their personalized cost estimate of attendance. School housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is about $4,400. Students at this school may be eligible for aid which is generally grants and loans. Athletic programs are available at Clark University through the NCAA, allowing students to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Athletic programs available may include the following:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Lacrosse (NCAA Division III)
Students may take a look at the school's www.clarku.edu to see additional information.

Enrollment

3,122

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Wheaton College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Norton, MA, which is a predominantly suburban area. Enrollment at Wheaton College exceeds 1,600 per year. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • English Language And Literature
  • History
  • Visual And Performing Arts
To be considered for admissions, you may be required to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit any transcripts or test scores, which are then studied by the admissions office. 62% of applicants are admitted to this school, of which 22 percent choose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found through the school's primary website or by requesting information here. The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $46,000, but may change each year. Students are encouraged to use the school's net price calculator to better estimate their cost of attending Wheaton College. Housing is available for students and costs about $6,300 for the year. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The mascot for Wheaton College is the "Lyons", and they participate in intercollegiate sports through the NCAA. Sports available may include:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
Students who wish to view more about Wheaton College can visit their website at wheatoncollege.edu.

Enrollment

1,760

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Merrimack College is a nonprofit private college that has a large selection of degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in North Andover, MA, in a predominantly suburban area. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled per year at Merrimac. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Liberal Arts And Sciences
To be considered for admissions, you may be required to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit school transcripts, which are then evaluated by the admissions committee. Merrimac has an acceptance rate of 88 percent of which only 18 percent chose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found here. The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $36,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and as such students should use the school's tuition calculator to identify their costs. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the necessary requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The Merrimack College Warriors participate in a number of athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

Enrollment

4,643

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Endicott College is a nonprofit private institution located in Beverly, MA and provides a large number of degree programs for students. Approximately 4,100 students are enrolled annually at Endicott College.

Here is a list of some of the popular programs Endicott College offers:

  • Education
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Recreation And Fitness Studies
  • Psychology
  • Communications And Journalism

Students applying for admission are required to submit an application, transcripts, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the school. Students may take either the SAT or ACT exam scores to be considered for admissions to this school. A score within the range of 1480 to 1750 on the SAT, or 23 to 27 for the ACT is usually submitted among accepted students. This school has an acceptance rate of around 59% of which only 28% decided to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $30,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and therefore students should use the school's net price calculator to identify their personalized cost estimate of attendance. School housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is about $9,700. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.

The Endicott College "Gulls" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Sports available may include the following:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Football (NCAA Division III)
  • Golf (NCAA Division III)

Students may visit the website to get a complete list of areas of study, admissions information, and more.

Enrollment

4,794

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Springfield College, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of program options, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, the campus offers an urban setting for students to study in. Approximately 5,400 students are enrolled yearly at Springfield College.

Areas of study offered at Springfield College include but are not limited to:

  • Public Administration And Social Services
  • Psychology
  • Education
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Recreation And Fitness Studies

To be considered for admissions, you may be asked to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit any transcripts or test scores, which are then studied by admissions officials. Most students admitted to Springfield College score in a range of 880 - 1140 on the SAT. Approximately 70 percent of all students that applied were admitted at Springfield College, with 37 percent of those admitted choosing to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found at spfldcol.edu.

The cost of tuition is nearly $34,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and therefore students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to understand their costs. Housing may be available for those that would like to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $6,100 annually. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is typically provided as scholarships, grants, and loans.

The Springfield College "Pride" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

Students should visit the website to obtain a complete list of programs offered, admissions information, and more.

Enrollment

3,139

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Wentworth Institute of Technology, a nonprofit private institution, offers a variety of program options, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Boston, MA, the campus offers an urban setting for students to study in. Around 3,800 students enroll at Wentworth Institute of Technology per year. Areas of study offered at Wentworth Institute of Technology include but are not limited to:

  • Architecture
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Engineering Technology
  • Engineering
  • Computer And Information Sciences
To be considered for admissions, students may be required to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit school transcripts, which are then studied by the admissions committee. Very common standardized test scores among students accepted to Wentworth Institute of Technology are within the range of 21 to 26 on the ACT, or 1430 to 1740 on the SAT exam. 61% of applicants are accepted to Wentworth Institute of Technology, of which 32% choose to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found at wit.edu. The cost of undergraduate tuition is nearly $28,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and as such students should visit the school's net price calculator to understand their cost of attendance. Students attending Wentworth Institute of Technology may qualify for aid which is generally grants and loans. The Wentworth Institute of Technology Leopards participate in a number of athletic programs, within the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available may include:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Golf (NCAA Division III)
  • Ice Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Lacrosse (NCAA Division III)
For a complete list of academic programs offered, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please take a look at the school's website at www.wit.edu.

Enrollment

4,516

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Popular Degree Programs at Private Colleges in Massachusetts

The degree options you will find at private colleges in Massachusetts is as diverse as the students that walk their halls. Areas of concentration at private institutions are seemingly boundless, ranging from traditional to specialty to professional degrees of all types. A sampling of professional degrees offered at private Massachusetts colleges includeveterinary medicine,physical therapy,nursing,pharmacy,law, andmedical school. A traditional degree path may take students down a path studyingmath,business,engineering,computer science,healthcare administration,political science,economics, andpublic policy. A specialty degree path at private universities may motivate students to learn aboutphysiology,toxicology,entomology,gerontology,immunology,sustainability studies,materials engineering, orgenetics.

Niche Degrees at Massachusetts Private Universities

Specialty degrees or traditional degrees can often be successfully parlayed into graduate degrees. For example, a student studying math as an undergraduate may be inclined to pursue an MBA inFinance, a Masters of Science inIndustrial Engineering, or a Master of Arts inUrban Studies. With the right education and passion for a particular field of interest, students can help create innovative solutions for todays most perplexing problems. Private colleges in Massachusetts have proven to be a hot-bed of innovation and critical thinking in several domains, thus creating a self-fulfilling cycle of exceptional teachers and students to foster more innovation.

List of Large 4-Year Private Universities in Massachusetts

There are 16 large private universities in our database for Massachusetts. Follow the links below to get more details about each school.

Large Universities with Research Facilities or Faculty

The universities listed below offer many diverse academic programs, have a large student body, and usually have research facilities or faculty involved with research. These schools very often have graduate and professional programs as well.

Boston University in Chestnut Hill, MA

Visit the website for Boston University at bu.edu

Program Details

  • 10,000 to 19,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $59,000 per year

Virtual Campus Tour of

Brandeis University (BU) in Boston, MA

Visit the website for Brandeis University at brandeis.edu

Program Details

  • More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $60,000 per year

Bridgewater State University in Waltham, MA

Visit the website for Bridgewater State University at bridgew.edu

Program Details

  • 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $11,000 per year

Northern Essex Community College (NECC) in Boston, MA

Visit the website for Northern Essex Community College at necc.mass.edu

Program Details

  • More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $6,000 per year

Wellesley College in Medford, MA

Visit the website for Wellesley College at wellesley.edu

Program Details

  • 10,000 to 19,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $59,000 per year

Worcester State College (WPI) in Worcester, MA

Visit the website for Worcester State College at worcester.edu

Program Details

  • 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Estimated tuition & fees: $11,000 per year

Large Primarily Academic Universities

Each university listed below offers a diverse set of degrees and programs, unlike the research universities listed above, these schools contain little to no research activity on campus and are primarily academic.

Small to Medium Sized 4-Year Universities

The 4-year schools listed below have a small to medium sized student body and may offer a wide range of associate and bachelor's degrees. Get more information about each school by clicking the links below.

4-Year Colleges with a Special Focus on an Area of Study

The schools below are grouped by their special area of focus. To learn about admissions, tuition & fees, programs offered, and more click on the school names below.

Theological Seminaries, Bible Colleges, and Other Faith-Related Institutions

Schools of Art, Music, and Design

Health Professions Schools

Technology-Related Schools

Notes: Tuition & fee amounts are for both Massachusetts in-state residents and out of state students, unless noted otherwise. The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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