Quick Facts
Public university with strong education and liberal arts programs
Location
Bridgewater, MA
Degrees
Bachelor's, Master's
Popular Majors
Psychology, Criminal Justice/Safety Studies, Management Science, Education, Communication, Accounting, Marketing
Total Students	Undergrad Students
~9,600	~8,300
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$12,194 (In-State) $18,334 (Out-of-State)	$15,000
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Moderately Selective (~89% acceptance rate)	$17,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
30 miles south
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

Bridgewater State University (BSU), founded in 1840 as America's first permanently located teacher training school, is a comprehensive public university in the Massachusetts state system. Located in historic Bridgewater, BSU serves approximately 9,600 students with a mission of providing accessible, transformative education that prepares graduates for meaningful careers and civic engagement. The university emphasizes teaching excellence, research, and community partnerships while maintaining affordable public tuition.

BSU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and 40+ graduate programs, with historic strengths in education alongside growing fields like business, STEM, and health sciences.

The university supports diverse learners through small classes, dedicated faculty mentoring, and extensive student services including academic advising and career preparation.

Graduate programs focus on professional development in education, management, social work, counseling, and public administration.

BSU Bears compete in NCAA Division III across 22 varsity sports, with strong programs in football, basketball, and track & field.

The 278-acre suburban campus features tree-lined paths, modern academic buildings, and residence halls, with commuter rail access to Boston.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting Bridgewater State University>

Academics

Bridgewater State University provides a student-centered education rooted in its teacher training heritage while offering contemporary programs across liberal arts, sciences, business, and professional fields. Undergraduates select from over 100 majors, with popular choices including Psychology, Criminal Justice, Management Science, Education, Communication, Accounting, and Marketing. The university maintains a favorable 17:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring small classes and personalized attention from professors dedicated to teaching. Flexible course options, honors programs, undergraduate research, and internships support diverse learning styles. BSU's commitment to transformative education prepares graduates for careers, graduate study, and civic leadership.

Admission

Admission to Bridgewater State University is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate around 89%, reflecting its mission of broad access combined with academic standards. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via the Common Application, with priority deadlines for merit scholarships and housing. The holistic review evaluates high school GPA (average ~3.3), course rigor, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. BSU is test-optional, allowing flexibility for applicants. Special pathways support first-generation students, veterans, and transfers. In-state tuition advantages and generous aid make BSU attractive for Massachusetts residents seeking quality public education.

Career Outcomes

Bridgewater State graduates enter the workforce or graduate programs well-prepared, with strong outcomes in education, business, public service, and health fields. Career services provide resume building, internship placement, job fairs, and alumni networking. Many leverage BSU's location for regional opportunities while others advance nationally. The university's practical focus and faculty connections help students secure meaningful positions with competitive salaries.

Campus

Bridgewater State University's 278-acre suburban campus offers a traditional New England college atmosphere with tree-lined paths, historic and modern buildings, and extensive athletic facilities. The commuter rail station on campus provides direct access to Boston, balancing peaceful study environments with urban opportunities. Amenities include renovated residence halls, dining options, library, arts center, and science complex.

Student Life

BSU fosters a supportive community blending commuter and residential experiences, with organizations, events, and athletics creating connections. Diverse clubs, leadership programs, and service opportunities engage students while support services address academic and personal needs.

Graduate Schools

Visiting Bridgewater State University