Quick Facts
Private university focused on healthcare and life sciences
Location
Boston, MA (Longwood Medical Area)
Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Popular Majors
Pharmacy, Nursing, Physician Assistant Studies, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Public Health, Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Total Students	Undergrad Students
7,000	3,800
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$41,000	$20,000
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Moderately Selective (~85% acceptance rate)	$39,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
In Boston
* 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.

MCPHS University (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences), founded in 1823 as America's oldest college of pharmacy, is a private institution dedicated to healthcare and life sciences education. Located in Boston's renowned Longwood Medical Area, MCPHS serves approximately 7,000 students with specialized programs that prepare graduates for high-demand careers in pharmacy, nursing, physician assistant studies, public health, and more. The university's hands-on approach and clinical partnerships provide exceptional preparation for professional practice.

MCPHS offers over 100 programs across three Boston campuses and online, with particular excellence in pharmacy, nursing, physician assistant, dental hygiene, and diagnostic imaging.

The university supports students through small classes, dedicated faculty, clinical rotations, and career services focused on healthcare fields.

Graduate and professional programs include PharmD, DNP, MS in Physician Assistant Studies, and advanced certificates.

MCPHS fields NCAA Division III teams in basketball, soccer, tennis, and other sports as part of the NECC conference.

The main Boston campus sits in the Longwood Medical Area near top hospitals, with additional sites in the city for specialized training.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting MCPHS>

Academics

MCPHS University specializes in healthcare and life sciences, offering targeted programs that blend rigorous academics with extensive clinical training. Undergraduates pursue degrees in Pharmacy (accelerated PharmD pathway), Nursing, Physician Assistant Studies, Dental Hygiene, Public Health, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Classes emphasize hands-on learning in state-of-the-art labs and simulation centers, while clinical rotations at Boston's top hospitals provide real patient experience. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure personalized guidance. MCPHS's focus on interprofessional education prepares students to collaborate in modern healthcare teams.

Admission

Admission to MCPHS is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate around 85%, welcoming students passionate about healthcare careers. Applications are rolling with priority deadlines for scholarships and specific programs (e.g., Pharmacy requires prerequisites). Holistic review considers GPA, science coursework, essays, recommendations, and healthcare exposure. Test-optional policy applies. Early applications recommended for competitive programs.

Career Outcomes

MCPHS graduates achieve excellent outcomes in high-demand healthcare fields, with strong placement in pharmacy, nursing, physician assistant roles, and more. The university's location in the Longwood Medical Area provides unparalleled access to clinical sites and employers like Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's. Career services support clinical placements, job search, and alumni networking. High licensure pass rates and employment within six months reflect MCPHS's practical preparation. Many graduates advance to leadership positions or specialized practice, benefiting from the university's focused curriculum and Boston's healthcare ecosystem.

Campus

MCPHS University's campuses in Boston's Longwood Medical Area place students at the epicenter of world-class healthcare. The main campus features modern academic buildings, advanced simulation labs, library, fitness center, and student lounges surrounded by leading hospitals and research institutions. Additional sites in the Fenway area support specialized programs. The urban setting offers walkable access to clinical rotations, while residence halls and dining provide community. Public transit connects easily to downtown Boston, blending focused healthcare education with city opportunities. Sustainability and wellness initiatives enhance the environment.

Student Life

MCPHS fosters a focused, supportive community of healthcare-oriented students, with organizations, events, and resources tailored to professional development and balance. Clubs include professional societies (pharmacy, nursing, PA), cultural groups, service initiatives, and recreational activities. Events like health fairs, guest lectures, and interprofessional simulations build collaboration. Athletics and wellness programs promote health amid rigorous studies. The diverse student body, including many international and first-generation learners, creates an inclusive atmosphere. Boston's Longwood area offers cultural, dining, and networking opportunities, while support services address academic and personal needs.

Graduate Schools

Visiting MCPHS