undergraduate admission bulletin 2016–2017
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Begin your journey
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Solid foundations
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Home base
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Intellectual pursuits
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Campus traditions
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Test your mettle
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Fuel your spirit
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Find your calling
—36 Boston —38
Admission and financial aid
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Visit Boston College
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Begin your journey
A nationally ranked research university, Boston College is dedicated to the discovery and transmission of knowledge. As a Jesuit, Catholic institution, Boston College is committed to the continual process of intellectual inquiry and student formation. Boston College endeavors to educate a new generation of leaders—men and women who will be capable of shaping the future with vision, justice, and charity—who combine a sense of calling with concern for the entire human family. On the evening of First Year Academic Convocation, faculty and members of the Jesuit community charge students with the words of St. Ignatius: “Go and set the world aflame.”
Solid foundations  academics at boston college
core curriculum The University Core Curriculum emphasizes the study of defining works in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Providing a broad understanding of the forces that have shaped world history and culture, the Core challenges students to think across disciplines, to make decisions and communicate effectively in an increasingly complex world.
At the core of a Boston College education is a deep commitment to the ideals of the liberal arts—the spirit of inquiry, the free exchange of ideas, and the development
core course requirements
of critical thinking skills. Boston College offers more
Arts (1)
Natural Science (2)
Cultural Diversity (1)
Philosophy (2)
Literature (1)
Social Science (2)
Mathematics (1)
Theology (2)
History (2)
Writing (1)
than 50 majors in four undergraduate schools: the Carroll School of Management, the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, the Connell School of Nursing, and the Lynch School of Education. All undergraduates complete the 15-course University Core Curriculum as well as major and elective courses. Many students also pursue a minor in one of more than 50 academic programs in areas ranging from Ancient Civilization to Scientific Computation to International Studies.
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colleges and majors
Wallace E. Carroll School of Management The Carroll School’s undergraduate academic program includes courses in both business and the liberal arts. In addition to University Core requirements, students fulfill a management core: a broad slate of introductory courses in business disciplines, with an emphasis on principled decision making. Students are also required to select one or more management concentrations. The first-year experience begins with Portico, an introductory, interdisciplinary business and ethics course. Concentrations Accounting Accounting Information Systems Business Analytics (co-concentration only) Computer Science Corporate Reporting and Analysis Economics Entrepreneurship (co-concentration only) Finance General Management Information Systems Information Systems and Accounting Management and Leadership Managing for Social Impact and the Public Good (co-concentration only) Marketing Operations Management
bc.edu/csom
Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences
William F. Connell School of Nursing
The Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences enrolls more than 6,000 students and embraces a strong liberal arts tradition. Students study in one of 35 major fields and 20 interdisciplinary minors and can pursue exceptional academic opportunities through the Honors Program, research projects, and international study. Exposure to subjects such as art history, theology, and physics teaches students to analyze information and think critically and independently.
The Connell School of Nursing curriculum prepares students for leadership in every area of nursing. Students gain clinical experience in Boston’s renowned health care institutions. Connell School students are eligible to take the state licensure exam and may enroll in courses that can be applied toward a master’s degree.
Majors Art History Biochemistry Biology Chemistry Classics Communication Computer Science Earth and Environmental Sciences Economics English Environmental Geoscience Environmental Studies Film Studies French Geological Sciences German Studies Hispanic Studies History Independent Major International Studies Islamic Civilization and Societies Italian Linguistics Mathematics Music Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Russian
bc.edu/cson
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Slavic Studies Sociology Studio Art Theatre Theology Interdisciplinary Minors African and African Diaspora Studies American Studies Ancient Civilization Asian American Studies Asian Studies Catholic Studies East European Studies Environmental Studies Faith, Peace and Justice German Studies International Studies Irish Studies Islamic Civilization and Societies Jewish Studies Latin American Studies Managing for Social Impact and the Public Good Medical Humanities, Health, and Culture Psychoanalytic Studies Scientific Computation Women’s and Gender Studies
bc.edu/cas
Major Nursing
Carolyn A. and Peter S. Lynch School of Education Lynch School of Education students engage in rigorous coursework, professional training in teaching and applied psychology, and community outreach—all striving to improve the human condition. A Lynch School education prepares future educators and counselors to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and their families. Majors Applied Psychology and Human Development Elementary Education Secondary Education Interdisciplinary Majors American Heritages General Science Mathematics/Computer Science Perspectives on Spanish America
bc.edu/lsoe
Nikki Elliott
accounting and perspectives // Chanhassen, Minnesota
discerning life’s meaning
My very first class at Boston College was a required course for business majors called Portico. It met at 8:00 a.m.—my classmates and I literally had to drag ourselves to class half asleep. But none of us missed a single class because our professor was such a joy. Portico gave me a great introduction to business and the global market. We read and discussed the Wall Street Journal, developed our communication skills, did hands-on projects, and studied ethical underpinnings of business decisions. I also learned the importance of a global perspective. As a freshman I also took an interdisciplinary course, Perspectives I, that explored what it means to live a life of excellence. That course absolutely changed my life. I loved it so much that I added a Perspectives major to my accounting concentration. The Perspectives Program offers a unique balance to my CSOM classes and has set me on a journey of profound intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth.
My “aha” moment » It’s more of an “aha” process—every day I’m reminded that I made the right decision in choosing BC. 4
academics at boston college
academic support Academic advising is central to a Boston College education. Each undergraduate is paired with a faculty advisor who helps that student identify interests, pursue internships or research opportunities, choose a major, and find success. To ensure a coherent, well-developed academic experience, students meet with their faculty advisors each semester before course registration. A network of resources is available to students, including faculty, deans, and the Academic Advising Center. The Thea Bowman AHANA (African, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American) and Intercultural Center welcomes all students, with a particular focus on helping multicultural students navigate college life.
pre-professional advisement For students planning to pursue further study in fields such as law and medicine, Boston College offers personalized advising and guidance on everything from choosing courses and internships to preparing for interviews and entrance exams. In 2014–15, 92 percent of seniors and recent graduates who applied to law school gained admission to one or more American Bar Association-approved institutions. (The average number of acceptances per student was four.) In 2014–2015, 86 percent of Boston College students with cumulative averages of 3.5 or better and MCAT scores of 27 or better were accepted to U.S. medical schools. Boston College offers pre-professional advisement in the following fields: Pre-Dental Pre-Medical Pre-Law Pre-Veterinary
9,192 undergraduate enrollment 4% African American/Black, 11% Hispanic/Latino, 11% Asian American, 3% two or more races, 6% international
international programs
36% of graduates in the Class of 2014 completed a minor
With 73 programs in 30 countries around the globe, Boston College gives all undergraduates the opportunity to study overseas and develop language skills, learn about new cultures, and gain a global perspective. More than half of Boston College undergraduates spend time studying in another country, either during the school year or over the summer.
4,513 graduate enrollment 5
Home base   a warm welcome
Boston College welcomes first-year students with a series of introductory programs and activities designed to help them feel informed, engaged, and at home in the University community. All incoming undergraduates are required to participate in one of seven comprehensive orientation sessions held during the summer months. Staff, students, and faculty are on hand to introduce the academic, spiritual, social, and practical resources of Boston College from a variety of perspectives. Entering students spend three days and two nights living in a residence hall, eating in dining halls, and getting to know one another and the campus. Each student leaves orientation with a book—a shared summer reading assignment that serves as a focal point and theme of the annual First Year Academic Convocation welcoming new students to the intellectual community at Boston College. 6
29 residence halls 85% of undergraduates live on campus 40% of freshmen live on Newton Campus 60% of freshmen live on Upper Campus
145 Jesuits at Boston College 13 dining locations 298 student clubs and organizations 31 male and female NCAA Division I sports teams 45 intramural sports 3,954 students competed on at least one of 859 teams
a warm welcome
During Convocation students make a torch-lit procession through Middle Campus, down the Higgins Stairs, to Lower Campus—the same route they will retrace on Commencement day, four years later— for a special forum with the author of the text they have read. To help new students get involved in campus life, the University holds an all-day Student Involvement Fair early in the fall semester, where undergraduates can explore the breadth and depth of 298 student organizations and activities focused on interests from the performing arts to social services to athletics.
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Students are guaranteed three or four years of on-campus housing. Accommodations range from traditional doubles (primarily for freshmen) to eight-person suites, high-rise apartments, and townhouses. Honors, multicultural, and healthy-alternative living areas are available on campus.
“As a freshman I chose a living and learning community with my classmates from Perspectives, a four-year, interdisciplinary program.…We took our classroom discussions back to the dorm for more debate.” –ben miyamoto read more @ www.bc.edu/ben
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Anita Kwashie achieving balance
psychology // Scotch Plains, New jersey The first couple of weeks as a college freshman can be awkward. But the girls on my floor were friendly and approachable, and some of my best friends at Boston College are people I met in the first few days of freshman year. For me, the hardest part of adjusting to college was the intensity of the classes. But my academic advisor was there for me when I needed advice, and my professors were very open to working with me when I needed help, even when I felt like I’d been thrown into the deep end. I was surprised by how much I could accomplish if I put my mind to it. Taking a few hours out of the week to have fun makes everything more manageable, and I have found a lot of ways to relieve stress and get to know people. My resident assistant hosts a weekly 10-minute dance party that helps break the monotony of studying. There’s a meditation session every Tuesday night on my floor. And I’ve started taking swing dance classes!
Favorite place in Boston » I’m a huge comic book nerd, so I spend hours at Newbury Comics flipping through comics. It’s a fun place to get lost.
a warm welcome
Philip Lam
Chemistry // Nutley, new jersey
finding community
In my freshman year I joined Cura, a community of small, faith-based student discussion groups that offer a safe space where you can talk about anything you want, whether it’s family problems, roommate drama, or just the stresses of college life. It’s easy to get lost in the emotions of school, work, and friends, so it’s important to take a step back and spend some time away. I also participated in Beginnings, a freshman retreat run by Campus Ministry. We spent two days at a house on Cape Cod in small groups with a sophomore leader. At its core, the experience was about opening ourselves up and building trust. There’s something beautiful about sharing your soul and learning about other people’s stories and hardships. I became part of a real community, and the people I met there became my best friends.
Something I never thought I would do » Spend spring break working at a soup kitchen in Philadelphia
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Intellectual pursuits   faculty and research
At the heart of Boston College is an intellectual community of teacher-researchers whose primary focus is undergraduate education. All full-time faculty members teach undergraduates. With a median class size of 19 and a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, the University encourages frequent, robust exchanges between students and their professors. A leading research institution, Boston College is also home to more than 30 centers and institutes, including the Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life, the Center for Retirement Research, the Church in the 21st Century Center, and the Irish Institute.
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With eight on-campus libraries, students have access to research and reference assistance 24/7. University librarians offer course-specific library instruction, one-on-one consultations, and a popular “Text a Librarian� service for quick responses to student queries.
786 full-time faculty 94% hold a doctorate or terminal degree
88% of classes taught by faculty 12% of classes taught by teaching fellows
1,643 classes per semester
Laura Simko
Physics // Miami, Florida
doing real-world research
I started working in Professor Michael Naughton’s physics lab in my sophomore year. He’s absolutely awesome. He’s really supportive, and very, very knowledgeable. If I go in with a question on a project, he’ll end up teaching me the intro stages of a whole other subject. I’ve floated between projects involving nano-scale biosensors and photovoltaics. Most recently I’ve been in the clean room on Newton Campus, helping the lab develop a device that could be used for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of ovarian cancer. I have been working on the actual fabrication of the biosensor component for this device, which relies on photolithography and E-beam deposition. The medical application aspect of the lab really drives me. Getting to know the lab’s six graduate students really well has been incredibly helpful—not just on research, but with problem sets and exam prep. And they offer an inspiring peek down the post-grad path. I plan to either continue working in medical physics or enter an M.D./Ph.D. program.
Favorite spot on campus » After a long night in Higgins Hall, walking past the glowing Gasson Hall on the way back to my dorm. It’s very peaceful.
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faculty and research
Gregory Manne
Secondary Education and History // weston, Florida
finding new paths to history
Number of BC clothing items in my closet » 25
The summer after my junior year, I worked in the history department as a research assistant for Professor Patrick Maney, who was writing a book about the Clinton administration. He assigned me to research public perceptions of Clinton, his role in popular culture, his welfare agenda, and a lot more. I accessed traditional academic resources like government records, periodicals, and online publications. But I also looked at sources the average academic doesn’t use, like YouTube clips of late-night comedians talking about Clinton on TV. The way people perceive the presidency has
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changed—today, many people get more information from shows like Conan or The Daily Show than from the New York Times or the Washington Post. Doing the kind of historical research that professors do was an amazing experience. I presented our work at the University’s Undergraduate Research Symposium. My professor and I developed a great working relationship, bouncing ideas off each other and ending up more as colleagues than as teacher and student. After graduation, I will go to Spain on a Fulbright Scholarship to teach English and conduct research.
faculty and research
The University offers opportunities for undergraduates to participate in faculty research and undertake independent study projects. More than 300 Boston College students in the past decade have won national awards, including Rhodes, Skaggs-Oxford, Fulbright, Marshall, and Goldwater scholarships.
“I conducted research on the history of the women’s movement in Turkey.…I wouldn’t have been able to do that without funding from an Advanced Study Grant. These summer grants are designed primarily for freshmen and sophomores, with the idea that an early research experience will help students later, when they apply for prestigious fellowships like the Rhodes or the Fulbright.” –brooke loughrin read more @ www.bc.edu/brooke
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Campus traditions discovering new heights The eagle is the University mascot. Boston College students, known as Eagles, share a love of learning and a determination to be the best in their chosen fields of study. They are also known for their engagement in campus life. They are Superfans and super athletes, dramatists, singers, dancers, orators, writers, activists, and tireless volunteers who embrace University traditions.
Superfans / Baldwin: BC Mascot / Student Involvement Fair / debate club / BC vs. Notre Dame / Duck Tours / Boston Common / St. Patrick’s Day The Annual Showdown / Fenway Park / BC bOp! / Arts Festival / intramurals / Mike’s Pastry / Mudstock / Commencement Ball / Red Bandanna Run Beanpot / Frozen Four / BC Boardwalk / convocation / Christmas Tree Lighting / Marathon Monday / 48HOURS / Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tailgating / New England Aquarium / Swan Boats / mass of the holy spirit / Freedom Trail / The North End / Newbury Street / halftime Harvard Square / Boston Sports / Free coffee during finals / wzbc / Senior Week / commencement / Professors and Pastries / Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 17
Test your mettle integrating theory and practice
Opportunities to apply classroom learning to real-life situations abound at Boston College. Many students take part in internships, international programs, and leadership training opportunities that prepare them for successful careers. The Career Center advises and directs students to substantive internships in which they can explore careers and establish connections with potential employers in fields from business and finance to pharmaceuticals to media and advertising to teaching.
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95% of freshmen return for sophomore year 92% graduation rate for the Class of 2013
integrating theory and practice
In a vibrant campus community, undergraduates engage in activities that range from academic, pre-professional, religious, fine art, athletic, government and political, and media to multicultural events. They take on leadership roles as resident assistants, orientation leaders, and peer leaders. The University also sponsors the one-year Emerging Leader Program for select first-year students, and the Jenks Leadership Program, which combines service projects with workshops and team building over the course of three semesters.
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Brandon Marianacci directing change
International studies with a focus on political science // Bedford, New york
I came to Orientation at Boston College with the idea that I wanted to meet people, get involved, and make a difference, and my orientation leader encouraged me to join Undergraduate Government of Boston College (UGBC), the University’s student government. I’ve been involved with UGBC from the start. As a freshman, I promoted events and discovered a creative side I didn’t know I had. As a sophomore, I became director of UGBC academic affairs. Then, I was director of campus entertainment, bringing speakers to campus and organizing concerts and other events—everything from a lecture by a cofounder of Reddit to a concert featuring Third Eye Blind and Nelly. The job required a tremendous amount of leadership and organizational ability. My UGBC experience will help me during my summer internship at CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360° program. UGBC has given me the opportunity to serve the BC community, actively change the campus, and have an impact on other students’ college experiences.
Favorite campus tradition » The culture behind Marathon Monday weekend—it’s a fantastic way to bring the community together and demonstrate Boston College’s amazing spirit to the world. 21
Kyle McCartan
finance // plano, texas
reaching out
I’ve played on the Boston College golf team for four years and have served as the team captain for two. I’ve learned a lot about managing different personalities, communicating well, and—most of all—how to lead with integrity. I’m also the president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Community outreach is a big focus of the SAAC. Twice a month, we visit kids in a nearby hospital to play cards or just hang out with them. We also go to local elementary and middle schools to talk to students about dreams we had at their age and obstacles we’ve overcome. My Boston College experience has helped me examine my own life in the spirit of Ignatian discernment—to ask myself if I’m living it the way I should be. When I stand in front of a group of kids and talk about things like the importance of saying “Thank you” and “I love you,” it reminds me to be true to myself and live with integrity.
A class that changed my life » Human Setbacks: A Grace Disguised, taught by Fr. Tony Penna
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integrating theory and practice
Beth Harvey
nursing // Coto de Caza, California
a caring approach
During my junior year I spent a semester in Quito, Ecuador, taking classes and working in a rural health clinic doing basic nursing practice. I took health histories, administered vaccinations, checked blood pressure, did dressing changes, and talked to patients about their health—all in Spanish! It was a great opportunity to put my nursing skills to the test, and I learned to be a more independent health care provider. My experience in Quito was life-changing, and I’ve made plans to go back next summer. Meanwhile, I’m serving as an advisor to BC nursing students in Quito. I’m passionate about nursing, and I love helping people succeed in the field. I also tutor nursing students here on campus through the University’s Keys to Inclusive Leadership in Nursing program, which provides extra support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. I help them prepare for tests and complete assignments, and I know I’m a good source of academic and personal support when they need it.
My “aha” moment » Realizing I could study abroad as a nursing student
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Fuel your spirit   jesuit, catholic identity
Boston College strives to strengthen the academic, vocational, and spiritual development of its students. Masses and other on-campus worship services, social justice programs, faith-based student organizations, and retreats help students explore their spiritual and religious lives, and discern their life’s purpose. The University is home to a range of active organizations, including the St. Thomas More Society, the Ignatian Society, the Asian Christian Fellowship, the Muslim Student Association, Hillel, and the Multi-Cultural Christian Fellowship.
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Ted Radell
Biochemistry with a pre-med focus // Wickliffe, ohio
living faith through action
I went to a Jesuit high school, so when I came to Boston College, I felt an immediate connection to the school’s Jesuit, Catholic mission. I attend Mass weekly at St. Joseph’s chapel, where I often serve as a Eucharistic minister. The Jesuit tradition means there’s an openness to learning and a spirituality that pervades everything on campus. Education here isn’t just about academics—it’s about the whole person. Service and living faith in action are part of that education. Through the 4Boston program, I volunteer four hours each week at the Franciscan Hospital for Children in Boston, visiting kids in a psychiatric ward. I plan to pursue a medical career, so working in a hospital is a perfect fit for me. The 4Boston program also focuses on reflection. Every week we get together in small groups to talk and pray about our experiences and the work we do. I’ve definitely grown since I’ve been at Boston College, and the University’s Jesuit heritage has a lot to do with that.
Favorite place in Boston » I’m a big baseball fan, so Fenway Park is an exciting place for me. I also love going to the North End to eat.
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jesuit, catholic identity
Students have many opportunities to immerse themselves in reflection and prayer at off-campus, two-day enrichment experiences guided by faculty, students, and staff. Among these are 48HOURS, during which first-year students can discuss their new college life; Kairos retreats, which offer students time to reflect on their relationship to God and others; and Halftime programs for sophomores and juniors who want to explore fundamental questions about their intellectual and creative abilities and society’s need for what they offer.
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jesuit, catholic identity
A concern for social justice pervades campus culture. Each year, close to 500 students participate in the PULSE Program for Service Learning, a yearlong academic program that combines theology and philosophy coursework with a weekly service commitment. During spring break, hundreds of undergraduate volunteers provide service and assistance to communities in need in the Appalachian region, the Eastern Shore of Virginia, the Midwest, and the Northeast.
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Alejandra Rodriguez
Sociology and Philosophy // Mexico City, Mexico
service learning
Growing up in Mexico City, I saw so much poverty that it seemed to be the norm. I was concerned about social justice, but the problems seemed so wide and so deep that I couldn’t see how to begin to address them. At Boston College, I got involved in PULSE. In class, we studied writers like Plato, Aristotle, Dorothy Day, and Desmond Tutu; then we went into the community and applied what we were learning to real-life situations. I worked at a shelter for teenage mothers and their children. I was like a mother’s helper—engaging the moms in conversation and playing with their kids. It was eyeopening to get to know these girls and see the injustices they were facing. I realized that change doesn’t have to occur overnight, and it doesn’t have to be complete. But it can’t happen without the efforts of a lot of people. I fell in love with PULSE and its mission and so I applied to serve on the PULSE Council this year. I coordinated three service placements and served as a liaison between these sites and PULSE students. It’s been rewarding to watch the students make the most of PULSE and grow through their experiences.
Biggest surprise about BC » The great amount of social activism on campus 29
Find your calling life after boston college
Boston College graduates enjoy a high rate of professional success. Typically, within six months of graduation, 96 percent of graduating seniors are working full-time or pursuing graduate studies, postgraduate internships or fellowships, or volunteering in programs such as the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and the Peace Corps. Career services at Boston College are available from the time a student arrives on campus. The Career Center offers job fairs, résumé workshops, cover letter critiques, and mock interview sessions, as well as access to national databases that list internships, job opportunities, and campus recruiting sessions.
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Class of 2015 69% employed full-time 19% went directly to graduate school 3% volunteered full- or part-time 3% pursued postgraduate internships 1% pursued a fellowship 5% other activity
Each year, hundreds of employers recruit Boston College students, with more than 3,500 student interviews conducted on campus. During the 2015–16 academic year more than 200 companies participated in general career fairs on campus and the Career Center hosted some 12 specialty career fairs and networking events.
life after boston college
Ashley Thibodeau
Nursing // Grosse Pointe Farms, michigan
making the right connections
I’ve always been interested in pediatric nursing, and one of my clinicals was at Children’s Hospital Boston, working with oncology patients. I was paired with a nurse and worked with her for 12-hour days, doing everything a nurse would do. I also spent 10 days in Haiti, working with other nursing majors at a community health clinic. Working through a translator, we interviewed patients, took their health histories, and assessed them. My clinical work gave me great experience, and my Boston College contacts helped me make connections. When I applied for a job at Vanderbilt, for example, an associate dean of the Connell School connected me with a recent alumna who works there. Right after graduation, I will start work as an RN on the hematology/oncology floor at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Boston College has prepared me to enter the workforce by helping me to identify who I am and what I can bring to a team, while also recognizing what I will need to work on as I begin my first job.
Where you’ll find me at 7:00 a.m. » Sometimes I’m still sleeping at 7:00 a.m., but on clinical days I’m already at the hospital. Other days I might be at morning workout for lacrosse.
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life after boston college
The University advises and supports students who plan to pursue graduate studies in medicine, law, and other professions. In recent years, 20 percent of Boston College’s graduating classes have gone directly to graduate school. The most popular fields of advanced study are education and law. Boston College graduates join a loyal and influential network of accomplished alumni who live and work throughout the world. Undergraduates connect with a community of fellow Eagles willing to share their professional advice and expertise on the newly established Career Community, a private LinkedIn network of more than 12,700 Boston College students and alumni. Students also learn from alumni who visit campus for the Career Center’s weekly career-specific panels and alumni networking nights in fields from the performing and visual arts to communications and marketing to the sciences.
“Sophomore year, I contacted about a dozen alumni to learn about how they got their start in finance. Last summer, I interned at John Hancock. Jazzman Parker ’11 put me in contact with the company’s recruitment coordinator, and the rest was up to me. I have a strong network of professional connections and advisors. Now that I’m about to graduate and enter the job market, I’m confident that I’ll find a job in my field.” –ivan alo read more @ www.bc.edu/ivan
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Jesus Damian Baeza
English and Human Development // Tucson, Arizona
leading by example
Favorite place on campus » The 9/11 Memorial Labyrinth
I take on leadership roles because I know firsthand the importance of a great role model. My college counselor in high school was a big influence on me—I was in his office every day, talking about college and about life, and he showed me that he cared. I joined Fuego del Corazon, Boston College’s Latin dance troupe, as a freshman. I had never danced before, so at first I was nervous—but the troupe quickly became my family away from home, and I enjoyed sharing my Latino culture through dance. By sophomore year, I was also a troupe captain,
choreographing dances, teaching other dancers, and being a mentor to the first-year students. After graduation I plan to stay at Boston College to earn a master’s degree in secondary education through the Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars Program. My goal is to teach at-risk high school students in an urban environment to help close our nation’s achievement gap. I know it will be challenging, but the leadership experiences I’ve had at Boston College have prepared me to meet that challenge.
19% of the Class of 2015 went directly to graduate schools including: Boston College Boston University Columbia University Georgetown University Tufts University
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Boston a world-class city
Founded in 1630 and sometimes called the “Athens of America,” the city of Boston is a vital world center of trade and finance, art and culture, research, medicine, and higher education. More than 200,000 students enroll each year in some 45 colleges and universities in the Boston metropolitan area. The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), better known as the “T,” provides easy access to all Boston has to offer: museums, music, theater, world-championship sports, shopping, restaurants, historic landmarks, and places of natural beauty. The University’s affiliations with the city’s many business, educational, health care, and community service institutions offer students opportunities to supplement classroom work with a variety of internship and service opportunities.
797 footsteps from Linden Lane to the MBTA’s Boston College Station $2.65 fare for a one-way “Charlie Ticket” to downtown Boston 165 MBTA subway trains depart from the Boston College Station each day
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Admission and financial aid Overview
Freshman admission
As a Jesuit, Catholic university, Boston College emphasizes the value of a liberal arts education along with specialized knowledge in a major field. The University also encourages students to connect their intellectual and personal gifts with the greater needs of society. The goal is to produce graduates who are both accomplished professionals and good citizens of the world.
The University offers applicants two decision plans: nonbinding Early Action and Regular Decision.
Boston College strives to make the application process as smooth as possible. Applicants submit both the Common Application and the Boston College Writing Supplement (available at www.commonapp.org), along with a nonrefundable $75 application fee. United States citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents are eligible for fee waivers in cases where the application fee would cause financial hardship. The Undergraduate Admission staff evaluates each application thoughtfully and carefully. Every counselor looks for demonstrated evidence of academic ability, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, motivation, creativity, energy, and promise for personal growth. Requests for financial aid do not affect decisions on admission. Please visit: www.bc.edu.
early action*
regular decision
Application deadline
November 1
January 1
Admission notification
December 24
April 1
National candidate’s reply date
May 1
May 1
*Boston College does not permit students to apply under Early Action if they are applying to a binding Early Decision program at another college. However, Early Action applicants may apply to other Early Action and Regular Decision programs. The Office of Undergraduate Admission recommends that students pursue four years of social science, mathematics, foreign language, laboratory science, and English. The most competitive applicants take advantage of honors, advanced placement, or International Baccalaureate curricula if available at their schools. Incoming freshmen have consistently earned high grades in their coursework and performed well on standardized tests. The test scores for the middle half of the enrolled Class of 2020 on the SAT I range from 1930–2150 (Critical Reading 620–720, Math 640–740, Writing 640–730), and on the ACT from 30–33.
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The College Board has revised the content, format, and scoring of the SAT. Boston College will not require the optional SAT essay or the optional ACT Writing section. If you are seeking admission to Boston College for fall 2017, you may submit scores from the previous version of the SAT or the new version of the SAT, which was first administered in March 2016. Boston College will superscore all standardized test exams if multiple versions of the same exam are submitted. For more information, please visit: www.bc.edu.
Transfer admission Students who hold a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) and have completed nine or more transferable credits at a regionally accredited college or university may apply for transfer admission. Applicants must achieve a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in order to be considered in the selection process. The mean grade point average of admitted transfer students is 3.74. Please note, students in their first semester of college may not apply for the January term. To be eligible for the Boston College degree, incoming transfer students must spend four semesters— excluding summer sessions—in the full-time day program at Boston College and must complete a minimum of 60 credit hours at the University. For further details on residency requirements, transferof-credit policies, and conditions for professional programs, please visit: www.bc.edu/transfer.
All transfer student applicants must submit: »» The Common Application and Boston College Writing Supplement »» Official copies of the SAT I or ACT »» High school and college transcripts, Academic Evaluation, and College Report »» International students must also submit the TOEFL or IELTS »» The Midterm Grade Report form is strongly recommended but not required Official high school and college transcripts must be sent from the respective institutions to Boston College. Faxed transcripts or transcripts issued to students are not accepted. The deadline for September admission is March 15; applicants will receive their decision letters between May 15 and June 1. The deadline for January entry is November 1; applicants for January admission receive their decision letters in mid-December. While the University makes an effort to house all students on campus, students are not guaranteed oncampus housing. If housing is not available, students are referred to the Office of Residential Life’s OffCampus Housing Services. This office maintains a database of realtors, property owners, and roommates, and its staff will assist in the search for off-campus accommodations. During the academic year, the Office of Undergraduate Admission offers information sessions for transfer students. Please see the Campus Visit section on page 40 for details, or visit: www.bc.edu/transfer.
Office of Undergraduate Admission’s website. Please visit: www.bc.edu/advstanding.
International applicants International students must submit the same credentials as U.S. applicants. All documents submitted must be in English. If a student’s credentials are translated from another language, a certified copy of the original must be included with the translation of credentials. All transcripts must be officially certified and sent directly from the issuing educational institution, or certified by the appropriate embassy. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is required of international applicants whose native language is not English, even if the student is enrolled at an English-speaking school. Applicants should achieve a TOEFL score of 100 or better on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) or an IELTS score of 7.5 or better to be competitive for admission. Boston College’s Institutional TOEFL Testing Code is 3083. The Department Code is oo. Please visit: www.bc.edu/international-students.
2016–17 freshman and transfer costs Tuition...........................................................$50,480 Residence Room Rate..................................... $8,610 Board Plan...................................................... $5,208 Health Services Fee...........................................$486 Student Activity Fee........................................... $330 Orientation Fee..................................................$500
Advanced placement units
Identification Card Fee........................................ $30
Boston College awards advanced placement units for qualifying College Board AP, International Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, British A Level, German Abitur, Swiss Maturite, and Italian Maturita exam scores. Official score reports for all exams must be sent to Boston College from the testing agency. An outline of qualifying scores and advanced placement policies is provided on
total billed costs Residing on Campus....................................$65,644
additional costs— freshman and transfer Books, Personal, Misc.................................... $2,650 Massachusetts Medical Insurance.................$2,913 39
Financial aid Boston College admits students solely on the strength of their academic and personal accomplishments. An application for financial aid does not influence the admission decision. The University is committed to meeting the full demonstrated institutional need of students during their four years of undergraduate study. Financial aid applicants must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal and/or state aid. Students who also wish to be considered for institutional need-based aid must submit the CSS (College Scholarship Services)/Financial Aid PROFILE and student and parent tax returns, including W-2 statements, in addition to the FAFSA. Other forms, such as the CSS Business/Farm Supplement and/or Noncustodial Parent’s Statement, may be required. Boston College is not able to provide need-based financial aid for undergraduate international students (non-U.S. citizens). Once admitted, international students must demonstrate their ability to meet all financial obligations to Boston College during their stay in the United States. Please visit: www.bc.edu/undergradaid. Each year, Boston College selects 15 incoming freshmen as Gabelli Presidential Scholars. Scholars are awarded full-tuition merit scholarships and participate in University-funded summer programs each year. In order to be considered for the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program, first-year applicants must apply by November 1 through the Early Action program. (Transfer applicants are not eligible for the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program.)
Visit Boston College Students and their families are welcome to visit the campus and learn more about academic programs and extracurricular opportunities at Boston College. Eagle Eye sessions are conducted by admission staff members and include a panel of current undergraduates who offer their views of academic and student life at Boston College. A campus tour follows the Eagle Eye session.
Transfer Eagle Eye Sessions Transfer Eagle Eye sessions are conducted by transfer admission staff members and include a panel of current transfer students at Boston College. Each session begins at 12:00 p.m. and lasts approximately one hour, followed by a campus tour at 1:00 p.m. Sessions will be held on Fridays, and pre-registration is requested at www.bc.edu/transfereagleeye.
Eagle Eye Sessions To attend an Eagle Eye session and/or campus tour, please refer to the link for registration. Registration allows the Office of Undergraduate Admission to communicate the logistics of campus visits. The campus visit program is designed to help in the college search process and does not factor into the admission evaluation.
To schedule your campus tour and Eagle Eye Session, please visit www.bc.edu
Eagle for a Day Program One of the best ways to become acquainted with Boston College is to attend a class with a student. The Eagle for a Day Program matches freshman and transfer applicants with a current undergraduate for a morning or afternoon that includes classes and an informal tour of the campus. For more information or to schedule an Eagle for a Day Program visit, please call 617–552–3378 or visit the website at least two weeks in advance.
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Boston College Publication issn 1090–7034 The Boston College Undergraduate Admission Bulletin contains current information regarding the University’s calendar, admission, degree requirements, financial aid, fees, regulations, and course offerings. It is not intended to be a statement of the University’s contractual undertakings. Boston College may make changes in its program, calendar, academic schedule, or fee schedule, giving notice as is practicable under the circumstances. In compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, Boston College publishes and makes available to any prospective student upon request:
Boston College Office of Undergraduate Admission Devlin Hall 208 140 Commonwealth Avenue Chestnut Hill, MA 02467–3809 www.bc.edu 800–360–2522 617–552–3100 fax:
617–552–0798 transfer:
617–552–3295 student services:
800–294–0294 disability services:
For more information on services for physically challenged students, please contact the Assistant Dean for Students with Disabilities at 617–552–3470.
A copy of Boston College’s annual security report, the Campus Safety and Security Program. This report contains statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus and on public property immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also incorporates institutional policies concerning campus security, including Reporting of Crimes and Other Emergencies, Safety Notification Procedure, Campus Law Enforcement, and Campus Sexual Assault Program; information regarding the available educational programs that address campus security procedures and practices and crime prevention; information regarding drug and alcohol policies; and other matters. A report of athletic program participation rates and financial support data. This report details participation rates, financial support, and other information on men’s and women’s intercollegiate athletic programs. To request a copy of either of the above reports, please call the Office of the Financial Vice President and Treasurer at 617–552–3197, or send your request in writing to: Boston College Office of the Financial Vice President and Treasurer 140 Commonwealth Avenue Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Nondiscrimination Notice Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1863, Boston College is dedicated to intellectual excellence and to its Jesuit, Catholic heritage. Boston College recognizes the essential contribution a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff makes to the advancement of its goals and ideals in an atmosphere of respect for one another and for the University’s mission and heritage. Accordingly, Boston College commits itself to maintaining a welcoming environment for all people and extends its welcome in particular to those who may be vulnerable to discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, age, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, military status, or other legally protected status.
Boston College rejects and condemns all forms of harassment, wrongful discrimination, and disrespect. It has developed procedures to respond to incidents of harassment whatever the basis or circumstance. Moreover, it is the policy of Boston College, while reserving its lawful rights where appropriate to take actions designed to promote the Jesuit, Catholic principles that sustain its mission and heritage, to comply with all state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in employment and in its educational programs on the basis of a person’s race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, age, marital or parental status, genetic information or family medical history, or military status, and to comply with state law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation. To this end, Boston College has designated its Executive Director for Institutional Diversity to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities to prevent discrimination in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, and the ADA. Any applicant for admission or employment, and all students, faculty members, and employees, are welcome to raise any questions regarding this notice with the Executive Director for Institutional Diversity: Boston College Office for Institutional Diversity (OID) 140 Commonwealth Avenue (Office location: 129 Lake Street) Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Patricia Lowe, Executive Director for Institutional Diversity/ Title IX Coordinator patricia.lowe@bc.edu Phone: 617–552–3334 E-mail: TitleIXCoordinator@bc.edu The Executive Director for Institutional Diversity oversees the efforts of the following additional Title IX coordinators: (i) Student Affairs Title IX Coordinator (for student sexual harassment complaints), 260 Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, Katie O’Dair, reachable at 617–552–3482 or odair@bc.edu; (ii) University Harassment Counselor, reachable via OID (see above contact information); and (iii) Jaime Seguin, jaime.seguin@bc.edu, Athletics Title IX Coordinator, the Senior Women’s Administrator, 310 Conte Forum, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, reachable at 617–552–8520. In addition, any person who believes that an act of unlawful discrimination has occurred at Boston College may raise this issue with the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education.
Credits: Produced by the Boston College Office of Marketing Communications. OMC-20722908. Managing Editor: Maria Palomino. Editor: Maureen Dezell. Art Direction: Christine Haag. Designer: Monica DeSalvo. Printer: RR Donnelley. Photography: Gary Wayne Gilbert, Lee Pellegrini, and Caitlin Cunningham. Additional credits: p. 8 (left) Suzanne Camarata; p. 12/13 Tony Rinaldo; p. 19 (right) and 33 (bottom) Justin Knight; p. 28 (top) Frank Curran, (right) Matt Eich, (left) Chris Huang; p. 36 (bottom) and 37 (top) Steve Dunwell; p. 37 (bottom) ©jiawangkun/shutterstock.com. Boston College (USPS 389-750) Vol. LXXXII, June 2016 issue, is published 6x per year, monthly in April, May, August, September, and semi-monthly in July, by Boston College Office of Marketing Communications, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3809. Periodicals postage paid at Boston, MA 02205 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Boston College Undergraduate Admission Bulletin, Office of Undergraduate Admission, Devlin Hall 208, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467–3809.
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