At a Glance

Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing six colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, and Pharmacy & Health Sciences. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries.

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.

2023 U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges Rankings

No. 1 Regional University–Midwest
No. 1 Most Innovative School–Midwest
No. 1 Best Undergraduate Teaching–Midwest
No. 1 Best College for Veterans–Midwest
No. 35 Best Value–Midwest
No. 15 (tie) First-Year Experiences–National
No. 37 (tie) Study Abroad –National
No. 53 (tie) Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects–National

Total Enrollment	5,559
Undergraduate Enrollment	4,537
Graduate Enrollment	1,022
In-State Students	45%
Out-of-State Students	55%
Students Receiving Gift Aid (2021–2022)	96%

Enrollment

Full-time Faculty	366
Student/Faculty Ratio	11:1

Faculty

Average Class Size	22
Undergraduates engaged in student-led campus activities	88%
Students who study abroad while at Butler	40%
Students who complete at least one internship while at Butler	75%

Student Experience

First-Year to Second-Year Student Retention	89%
Career or Graduate School Placement Within Six Months of Graduation	99%
Median Starting Salary	$52,000

Outcomes

internal resources

At a Glance

Mission