About Baylor

History

Baylor University is the oldest higher education institution in Texas in continuous operation. Since receiving its charter from the Republic of Texas in 1845, Baylor has grown into the state's largest private university with approximately 14,000 students from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and 70 foreign nations. Baylor's nationally-ranked academic programs feature 147 bachelor's degrees, 75 master's degrees, 21 doctoral degrees and the juris doctor law degree. The 722-acre campus is located on the banks of the Brazos River in Waco, Texas, a metro area of more than 200,000 people. Baylor alumni number more than 100,000 men and women living throughout the globe.

Mission

Baylor University's mission reflects President Bush's core principles of service, compassion, leadership, education, family and faith and "seeks to educate men and women for worldwide leadership and service by integrating academic excellence and Christian commitment within a caring community."

In May 2002 President Bush said, "True faith is never isolated from the rest of life." This sentiment reflects the heart of Baylor's philosophy. While many universities have strayed from these founding principles, Baylor is one of America's few comprehensive academic universities seriously committed to a faith-based mission. Baylor is carving a distinct place in higher education through the leadership of intellectual entrepreneurs and a bold strategic vision. Baylor is dedicated to shaping students in all aspects of life with a distinct focus on intellectual, moral, ethical, religious, philosophical, physical and social development.