Boston University Academic Insights: What Students Study

· 3 min read

So, you've navigated through college acceptance rates and browsed rankings, but where do academic results lead you at Boston University (BU)? Here at CollegeQuant, we’ve delved into the numbers to paint a comprehensive picture of what students actually study and accomplish at BU.

High Retention and Graduation Rates: What They Reveal

Boston University boasts impressive outcomes, with a first-year retention rate of 95%. This suggests that students are largely satisfied with their college choice and continue to the next year at a high rate. Moreover, BU's four-year graduation rate stands at 75%, and its six-year graduation rate climbs to 89%. These figures highlight BU’s strong academic support structures and their effectiveness in helping students stay the course toward graduation.

Top Fields of Study: A Focus Beyond STEM

While the STEM field has been a popular pursuit at many institutions, BU presents an interesting contrast with a STEM graduate percentage of only 16%. Instead, students at BU gravitate towards other areas. The top fields include:

  • Business & Management: 745 graduates annually
  • Social Sciences: 681 graduates annually
  • Communication & Media: 626 graduates annually
  • Biological & Biomedical Sciences: 535 graduates annually
  • Engineering: 390 graduates annually

These statistics indicate a substantial focus on disciplines that foster critical thinking and communication—a reflection of BU’s diverse academic offerings.

Diversity and Student Demographics

Bearing a diversity index of 0.71, BU's student population is diverse and dynamic. With 58% women in its undergraduate enrollment, BU is committed to gender inclusion. Diversity extends into race and ethnicity with substantial representation across multiple groups—20% Asian, 32% white, 11% Hispanic or Latino, and 21% international students, among others. Such diversity on campus enriches the educational experience, paving the way for cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations.

Completion and Concentration

BU's total completions per year hit 9,114, revealing a prolific academic environment. The university's “specialized” major concentration indicates students have access to uniquely tailored academic paths that align with their personal and professional interests.

What This Means for Prospective Students and Parents

For high school juniors, seniors, and their parents, understanding these nuanced outcomes is crucial. Deciding on a college isn’t just about where you get in; it’s about where you’ll thrive. At BU, the data reflects a setting where students are not only engaged but also completing their studies in good time—whether in popular non-STEM fields or within specialized courses.

Analyzing Graduation and Retention

Graduation rates can serve as one part of evaluating how an institution facilitates student success. The notable 14% difference between BU's four-year and six-year graduation rates may indicate extended academic pathways or broadened curricular choices. Assessing these figures can guide you in understanding the support you might expect through your college journey.

Financial Considerations

With tuition at $68,102 for both in-state and out-of-state students, Boston University represents a significant investment. Yet, the university meets 98% of financial need on average, with an average need-based grant of $66,926. For families, this paints a hopeful picture when navigating financial aid packages and assessing overall affordability.

Knowing the average net price by income bracket can also be pivotal. For households earning under $30k, the average net cost comes down to $11,453, whereas families making over $110k see an average net price of $48,018. Understanding these elements is crucial for families planning financially for the college years.

Your College Journey with CollegeQuant

Boston University’s academic outcomes offer a nuanced picture of the institution, one that resonates with those values and goals already central to many prospective students and parents. By observing data like major concentrations, retention, and graduation rates, CollegeQuant provides insight into how BU prioritizes academic success and a diverse educational experience.

Curious to learn more? Visit the Boston University Profile on CollegeQuant for a deeper dive into what makes BU stand out not just in reputation, but in proven academic performance.