Brandeis University is a private research university in Waltham, Massachusetts, founded in 1948 as the only nonsectarian Jewish-sponsored university in the United States. Its strong social justice focus, research intensity at a liberal arts scale, and proximity to Boston create a distinctive environment for intellectually engaged students.
Mascot: Judge
Notable Alumni
Debra Messing (Emmy-winning actress)•Thomas Friedman (Pulitzer-winning columnist)•Marta Kauffman (co-creator of Friends)
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
Brandeis punches well above its weight academically — the pre-med track is exceptional, and the research culture rivals schools twice its size. Greek life is essentially nonexistent, and the social scene is quiet, intellectual, and heavily oriented around social justice activism. The Waltham campus can feel isolated, and students who need a vibrant nightlife will find it lacking.
A 235-acre wooded campus in Waltham with a mix of mid-century modern and Brutalist buildings that reflect its rapid 1950s-60s expansion. The natural landscape is lovely with rolling hills and ponds, but the concrete architecture can feel dated.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
Crime on the enclosed suburban campus is rare. A 2024 Pedestrian Campus Safety Initiative added LED crosswalk lights, and university police provide 24/7 patrols.
Located on a wooded hilltop in Waltham, the surrounding area is a quiet, low-crime suburb with residential neighborhoods.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Afternoons Monday-Friday; occasional Saturdays during academic year
Duration: ~90 minutes (info session + student-led campus tour)
Admissions counselors introduce Brandeis and the application process, then current students lead the campus tour. Book ahead — tours fill up, especially in fall. Summer 2026 visit dates open in late April.
Book a TourVisitors can explore the 235-acre campus independently. A virtual tour is available online for remote exploration.
Tour ResourcesOctober through November for New England fall foliage on the wooded campus, or March through April. Visit when classes are in session to get a true feel for the intellectual energy. Avoid mid-December through January (winter break) and summer when campus is quiet. Visit twice if serious about enrolling.
Visitor parking in the Theater Lot behind the Shapiro Admissions Center — turn left at the main entrance (415 South Street) and follow Loop Road. Parking passes available at the Parking Office (Stoneman Building, 8am-4pm) or online at brandeis.aimsparking.com. Commuter rail from Boston's North Station to Waltham (~25 min), then shuttle or taxi. Logan Airport is 30 minutes by car; rideshare ~$45-60.
Location
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