Key Facts

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island, United States
• Founded: 1764
• Enrollment: Over 10,000 students
• Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 6,500
• Graduate Enrollment: Around 3,500
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
• Notable Programs: Humanities, Computer Science, Public Health, Engineering
• Campus Size: 146 acres

History & Foundation

Brown University was founded in 1764 as the College in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. It was the third-oldest university in the Ivy League and the first to accept students regardless of their religious affiliations, reflecting its early commitment to academic and intellectual freedom. The university was renamed Brown University in 1804 in honor of its benefactor, Nicholas Brown, Jr.

Over its long history, Brown has been a leader in shaping higher education in the United States. It was one of the first universities to offer a more open, flexible curriculum, which became a hallmark of the university’s educational philosophy. Brown has also been at the forefront of social and intellectual movements, with a focus on student-led initiatives and progressive change.

Education & Research

Brown University offers a distinctive education grounded in academic freedom and the exploration of intellectual passions. The university’s open curriculum allows students to take control of their education, designing their own academic programs while ensuring a broad exposure to different fields. This model encourages students to engage in independent research and fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Research at Brown spans a wide range of disciplines, with the university investing heavily in projects that address global challenges. Brown’s faculty and students are involved in pioneering research across fields such as medical sciences, computer science, environmental sustainability, and the arts. The university’s research initiatives are highly collaborative, involving partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and international organizations to solve complex issues and advance knowledge.

Student Life & Global Opportunities

Brown University offers a vibrant and inclusive student life, with a wide variety of clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities. From political activism and cultural clubs to creative arts and volunteer opportunities, students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. The university’s culture fosters a collaborative environment where students can work together across disciplines to innovate and create positive social change.

Brown also offers a range of global opportunities, including study abroad programs, international internships, and research partnerships. The university's global network and commitment to addressing worldwide challenges allow students to engage in projects that have a global impact. Whether through academic collaborations or internships with international organizations, Brown students have the chance to gain valuable global experience and contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Contact Information

• Website: www.brown.edu
• Admissions Office: Brown University, Box 1876, Providence, RI 02912
• Phone: +1 (401) 863-1000
• Email: admissions@brown.edu