Baylor University is a private Baptist university in Waco, Texas, and the oldest continuously operating university in the state. Baylor is known for its Hankamer School of Business and strong pre-health programs that feed into top medical schools. The university integrates its Christian faith tradition throughout campus life while offering a broad range of academic programs.
Mascot: Bear
Notable Alumni
Chip and Joanna Gaines (Fixer Upper stars)•Robert Griffin III (Heisman Trophy winner)•Willie Nelson (country music legend)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Baylor blends Baptist values with Big 12 spirit — Chapel is a real thing, All-University Sing is a major campus event, and the bear mascot has its own habitat on the Brazos River. About 25-28% go Greek, giving it a meaningful but not overwhelming presence. The Christian atmosphere is genuine and pervasive, which is either a feature or a limitation depending on who you ask.
Scenic campus along the Brazos River with a cohesive blend of Georgian and modern architecture, highlighted by the striking McLane Stadium on the riverbank and the lush, well-landscaped grounds.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
Baylor maintains a full police department with marked patrol vehicles, bicycle units, and criminal investigation teams operating 24/7. Overall serious crime remains low.
The neighborhoods immediately around Baylor in Waco have above-average crime rates. Students are advised to be aware of their surroundings off campus.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Daily year-round, multiple timeslots
Duration: ~2 hours (welcome session at Hurd Center + student-led campus tour)
Tours begin at the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center (901 S. University Parks Dr). Contact Visit@baylor.edu or call 254-710-TOUR (8687). Spring Baylor Premiere (open house) is a flagship admitted student event.
Book a TourCampus is open and walkable for self-guided visits. Virtual tour available online. Visitor parking is free with simple online registration.
Tour ResourcesOctober through November for comfortable Texas weather and football season energy, or March through April for spring. Avoid June-August when Waco heat is extreme (100°F+). Homecoming and football Saturdays bring the Baylor Line tradition alive.
Free visitor parking — register your license plate online (virtual permit, no sticker needed). Park in marked visitor areas or any non-reserved Student/Faculty space. Hurd Welcome Center at 901 S. University Parks Dr is your starting point. From Waco Regional Airport (ACT): ~15 min drive. From DFW Airport: ~90 min via I-35 South. From Austin-Bergstrom (AUS): ~90 min via I-35 North.
Location
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