Hi, I've been researching Boston University as a potential college option, but I'm curious about the student population. Can anyone tell me about the size of the student body and how it contributes to campus life? How does the population size affect class sizes and the overall sense of community? Thanks!
Hello! Boston University (BU) is a fairly large institution with a student body of over 37,000 undergraduate and graduate students. As of Fall 2021, the undergraduate population was roughly 18,000 students. This size can offer a diverse range of experiences, but it also means that the campus can feel vibrant and bustling.
Regarding class sizes, you'll find a wide range depending on the level and subject of the course. Introductory classes can sometimes have over 100 students, whereas upper-level courses or specialized seminars typically have smaller class sizes of around 15-30 students. This smaller setting allows for more personalized attention and interaction with professors.
As for campus life, having a large student body gives you opportunities to connect with people from various backgrounds and interests. BU has over 450 clubs and organizations you can get involved in, ranging from cultural clubs to sports teams to academic societies. Participating in these activities can help you find your niche and make lasting friendships, even in such a sizable institution.
The overall sense of community at Boston University depends on the individual student's efforts and involvement. With a large student population, it's essential to actively engage in clubs, groups, or activities that align with your interests to create meaningful connections and foster a strong sense of belonging.
In summary, the student population at BU offers a trade-off between diversity and a wide range of opportunities on one hand, and large class sizes in some courses on the other. To make the most out of your experience at a large university like BU, consider getting involved in campus organizations and actively seeking out smaller, more intimate settings in which to forge bonds with your peers and professors.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.