Suffolk University
The Vibe Check
Suffolk University offers a dynamic, urban campus experience right in the heart of downtown Boston, blending historic New England charm with the energy of a bustling city. Students feel like they are part of the professional landscape, often dressed in business casual for internships just blocks from campus. The vibe is ambitious and fast-paced, with a strong sense of community among commuter and resident students alike.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Suffolk is renowned for its Sawyer Business School and strong programs in Legal Studies and Political Science, leveraging its prime location for unparalleled internship opportunities. The university emphasizes experiential learning, with small class sizes that foster direct interaction with professors who are often practitioners in their fields. Research opportunities are accessible, particularly through connections to Boston's thriving biotech and legal sectors.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Boston
Student life is deeply integrated into Boston, with easy access to the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, world-class museums, and a vibrant food scene. Students enjoy exploring neighborhoods like the North End and Back Bay, catching concerts at nearby venues, and taking advantage of student discounts at cultural institutions. The city's public transit system makes it easy to escape to nearby beaches or mountains for a weekend break.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($67,506):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus is located in the downtown area, which is generally safe and well-patrolled by both university security and Boston Police. Like any major city, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night, but the campus itself has a strong security presence with blue light systems and escort services.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime downtown Boston location provides unmatched internship and networking opportunities.
- ✓ Strong, career-focused programs in business, law, and communications.
- ✓ Relatively high acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for a quality urban university.
- ✓ Diverse student body with a mix of traditional and non-traditional learners.
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost, though net price is lower, financial aid packages can vary.
- ✗ Graduation rate of 60% is below the national average for private universities.
- ✗ Urban campus may feel compact to students expecting a sprawling traditional college quad.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Suffolk University is primarily known for its excellent Sawyer School of Business, its Law School, and its strong programs in Political Science and Communications. Its identity is deeply tied to its urban campus in downtown Boston, offering students direct access to government, finance, and legal institutions for hands-on learning and internships.
No, Suffolk University has a relatively high acceptance rate of 84.74%, making it an accessible option for many applicants. The middle 50% SAT range is typically between 1100-1300, with an average of 1197. While not highly selective, a strong GPA and demonstrated interest in the university's urban opportunities will strengthen your application.
Campus life is fast-paced and integrated into the city. Students often spend their free time exploring Boston's neighborhoods, dining in the North End, or cheering on local sports teams. The campus itself has a close-knit community feel with over 60 student clubs and organizations, and many students participate in service-learning projects that connect them directly to the city.
For students who actively leverage its location, Suffolk can be a worthwhile investment. The 10-year median earnings of $67,506 are competitive, especially for graduates in business and legal fields who secure Boston-based jobs. The value is highest for those who graduate on time and use the city's professional network to launch their careers.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,669
- In-State Tuition $45,380
- Zip Code 02108
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $45,000, the net price for many students averages around $30,000, which is still a significant investment. However, the 10-year median earnings of $67,506 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for graduates entering business, law, or tech fields in the high-paying Boston market. The value is maximized for students who actively secure internships and co-ops, which can lead directly to employment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.