Baylor University
History
Baylor University, a private Christian university located in Waco, Texas, was founded in 1845. It is one of the oldest continually operating universities in Texas and one of the first educational institutions west of the Mississippi River. The university's 1,000-acre campus is located on the banks of the Brazos River next to I-35, between the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and Austin.
The university was chartered by the last Congress of the Republic of Texas. Baylor is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It is named after Judge R.E.B. Baylor, a leader in the Texas Baptist community who provided significant legal assistance in the university's founding.
Academics
Baylor University offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity".
The university comprises 12 colleges and schools, each offering a variety of degrees and majors. These include the College of Arts & Sciences, Hankamer School of Business, School of Education, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Graduate School, Honors College, Law School, School of Music, School of Nursing, School of Social Work, College of Health & Human Sciences, and the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work.
Research
Baylor University is a member of the Association of Research Libraries and has designation as a "higher research activity" institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university's libraries house more than 2.6 million volumes for research and study.
The university is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC), a multi-disciplinary research center where university researchers collaborate with private companies and governmental entities to advance scientific understanding and technological innovation.
Student Life
Baylor University has a vibrant student life with more than 330 clubs and organizations, including academic, professional, political, service, social, athletic, and religious organizations. The university also has a strong Greek life with over 40 fraternity and sorority chapters.
The university's athletic teams, known as the Baylor Bears, compete in the Big 12 Conference of NCAA Division I. The university has won multiple national championships in several sports, including women's basketball and men's tennis.
Notable Alumni
Baylor University has produced many notable alumni in various fields. These include Pulitzer Prize winners, Rhodes Scholars, and notable leaders in business, government, law, science, education, and the arts. Some of the notable alumni include former Texas Governor Ann Richards, former U.S. Solicitor General Ken Starr, and professional football player Robert Griffin III.