Emerson College

Emerson College, located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, is an esteemed nonprofit educational institution known for its robust communication and arts academic programs. This prestigious college also maintains campuses in Los Angeles, California, and Bergen, Netherlands, enhancing its global presence and appeal.

As an independent, nondenominational college, Emerson is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a comprehensive educational institution. It attracts a dynamic mix of students from various backgrounds, drawn by the promise of participating in innovative, rigorous academic programs among the best in North America and Europe.

This college stands out not only for its educational programs but also as a founding member of the ProArts Consortium in Boston, which is dedicated to collegiate-level arts education. Additionally, the college is renowned for its Emerson Polling, a respected public opinion poll, and its impressive roster of alumni who have made significant marks in the communication and entertainment industries.

The college's story began in 1880 when Charles Wesley Emerson founded it as the Boston Conservatory of Elocution, Oratory, and Dramatic Art in Boston's Pemberton Square. Over the years, the main campus moved several times but finally settled in Boston's famed Theater District. After being named the Monroe Conservatory of Oratory in 1881 in honor of Professor Lewis B. Monroe, the institution was renamed Emerson College of Oratory in the later years.

The mission of this college is clear: to educate students to lead in the fields of communication and the arts, enriching these disciplines with creativity, innovation, and diversity. This mission is underpinned by three core liberal arts values: ethical practices, respect for human diversity, and civic engagement. These values are integral to ensuring that Emerson students excel academically and are well-prepared to engage ethically and effectively in their professional and civic lives.

The college's governance is overseen by a committed leadership team, including a President's Council comprised of executive-level leaders who ensure the institution adheres to its high standards and missions. The college also benefits from the strategic input of four school deans, who are crucial in shaping the educational offerings and ensuring the ongoing success of the student body.