At a Glance

Butler University is a nationally ranked, premier university located in Indianapolis—one of the Midwest’s largest and most dynamic cities. Recognized across the country for excellence in First-Year Experiences, Study Abroad Opportunities, Undergraduate Business, and its PA Program, Butler continues to set the standard for student success and academic innovation. The University’s 98 percent placement rate within six months of graduation reflects its commitment to hands-on, future-focused education that prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. With seven colleges—Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the newly launched Founder’s College—Butler offers a comprehensive academic experience grounded in personalized learning and real-world impact. The University enrolls approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students from 49 states, one U.S. territory, and 37 countries. In addition to its national accolades, Butler is proud to be ranked No. 1 by U.S. News & World Report in the Regional Universities–Midwest category—a distinction that underscores the University’s continued excellence and leadership within the region.

School Type: Private, Coed
Year Founded: 1855
Religious Affiliation: None

Mission

Butler University, founded on ideals of equity and academic excellence, creates and fosters a collaborative, stimulating intellectual learning environment. We are inspired to boldly innovate and broadly educate, enriching communities and preparing all learners to lead meaningful lives.

Butler is located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

When students come to Butler, they’re getting more than just a world-class education. They’re joining the bustling community of Indianapolis, nicknamed the Crossroads of America and home to five professional sports teams, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a vibrant arts and culture scene, a nationally recognized international airport, and many major businesses and corporations.

1850—The charter of North Western Christian University proposed by abolitionist Ovid Butler was approved by the Indiana General Assembly.
1855—Classes began at North Western Christian University in the area of today’s 13th Street and College Avenue.
1877—The school moved to Irvington and was renamed Butler University.
1928—Butler University relocated to its current location at 4600 Sunset Avenue.

No. 14 Best PA Programs – U.S. News & World Report
No. 24 Study Abroad Opportunities – U.S. News & World Report
No. 30 First-Year Experiences – U.S. News & World Report
No. 28 Online Master’s in Business Programs (Excluding MBA) – U.S. News & World Report
No. 1 Effectiveness of Career Advising (Undergrad Business School) – Poets&Quants
No. 2 Quality of Teaching (Undergrad Business School) – Poets&Quants
No. 8 Academic Experience (Undergrad Business School) – Poets&Quants
No. 48 Best Undergraduate Business School – Poets&Quants
No. 1 Regional Universities-Midwest – U.S. News & World Report

Enrollment

Total Enrollment	5,746
Undergraduate Enrollment	4,489
Graduate Enrollment	1,257
In-State Students	50%
Out-of-State Students	50%
Students of Color and International	21%
First-Year Students Who Receive Gift Aid	96%

Faculty

Full-time Faculty	385
Student/Faculty Ratio	11:1

Student Experience

Average Class Size	21
Undergraduates Engaged in Student-led Campus Activities	90%
Students Who Study Abroad While at Butler	40%
Students Who Complete at Least One Internship While at Butler	80%

Outcomes

First-Year to Second-Year Student Retention	88%
Career or Graduate School Placement Within Six Months of Graduation	98%
Median Starting Salary	$65,162

INTERNAL RESOURCES

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