Founded in 1852, Tufts University is a premier private research institution located across campuses in Medford, Somerville, and Boston, Massachusetts. Blending the personal feel of a liberal arts college with the research capabilities of a major university, Tufts focuses on active citizenship, public service, and global engagement. You can dive deeper into its founding story through the Tufts University History archive.
When you join Tufts, you enter a vibrant scholarly community that encourages cross-disciplinary problem solving and creative collaboration across international policy, engineering, life sciences, and the arts.
Premier Academic Programs
Tufts offers exceptional academic programs across ten schools, setting global benchmarks in several key disciplines:
- Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy: America's oldest graduate school dedicated exclusively to international affairs, security policy, and global business. Explore degree paths on the Fletcher School portal.
- School of Engineering: Integrates technical education with social impact, specializing in biomedical engineering, human factors, and environmental systems.
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine: The only veterinary school in New England, offering hands-on clinical care and advanced animal health research.
- School of Arts and Sciences: Delivers rigorous undergraduate and graduate studies across cognitive science, international relations, and fine arts.
- School of Medicine: Drives clinical innovation, public health initiatives, and biomedical discovery in downtown Boston.
"Pax et Lux, meaning Peace and Light, serves as Tufts' official motto, guiding students to apply their knowledge for global peace and civic improvement."
Campus Life and Mascot
Your daily campus experience centers on the main Medford and Somerville campus, sitting atop Walnut Hill with clear views of the Boston skyline. School spirit is rooted in Jumbo the Elephant, the famous circus elephant donated by P.T. Barnum, making Tufts the only university with a mascot recognized in the dictionary. You can read the legendary story on the Jumbo Mascot page. Whether you are participating in campus traditions or joining over 300 student organizations, you will find a collaborative and supportive culture.
Research Infrastructure and Global Impact
Tufts provides substantial research facilities that encourage undergraduate and graduate discovery:
- Tisch College of Civic Life: A national leader in civic education, engaging students in political participation, community service, and public policy.
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center: Investigates the relationship between nutrition, physical activity, and healthy aging. Learn more via Tufts Research Operations.
- Global Education Network: Offers study abroad programs across Europe, Asia, and Latin America emphasizing immersive cultural integration.
Notable Alumni Legacy
You walk in the footsteps of influential global leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators, including:
- Pierre Omidyar: Computer engineer and founder of eBay.
- Rainn Wilson: Emmy-nominated actor and author best known for his role on The Office.
- Tracy Chapman: Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter and social activist.
- Admiral James Stavridis: Retired U.S. Navy Admiral and former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO.
Tufts is committed to meeting 100 percent of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. You can review full entry guidelines and deadlines on the official Tufts Admissions portal.