If there was ever any truth to the "New England Elite" myth, then Massachusetts private colleges would be to blame. Over the years, schools, colleges, and universities in the "Bay State" have gradually secured a stronghold in the academic arena. It seems like every other medical breakthrough comes out of one of the many prestigious Boston universities. And the surrounding Massachusetts private colleges are never far behind.
Massachusetts private colleges and universities offer a wide range of education programs with degrees and certificates up to the doctoral level, as well as professional degrees such as law and medicine.
There are 114 colleges in Massachusetts, 30 public and 84 private, offering a wide range of programs and majors. These Massachusetts private colleges are diverse in character, academic emphasis, and origins. Some private colleges or schools have a religious affiliation; others are secular. Private colleges and universities may be profit or non-profit institutions. Typically, Massachusetts independent colleges or private schools give weight to personal characteristics and activities in addition to considering GPA and test scores.
The largest being Boston University with 26,546 full time students. Williams College is the most expensive with an in-state tuition of $44,660.
Established in 1967 by college and university presidents, AICUM is the leading voice on public policy issues affecting independent higher education in Massachusetts The association is comprised of 60 degree-granting, accredited, independent (private) colleges and universities across the Commonwealth.
AICUM works closely with its member institutions to strengthen higher education, to advocate for need-based financial aid for Massachusetts students, and to address state and federal legislative and regulatory issues. The Association also promotes increased awareness of the significant contributions by colleges and universities to the cultural, economic, and knowledge-based reputation of the state.