Butler University
Address: Butler University, 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
Phone: +1 317-940-8000
Email: admission@butler.edu
Website: www.butler.edu
About Butler University
Founded in 1855, the Butler University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Indianapolis (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), Indiana. Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Butler University is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 5,000-5,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. Butler University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 169-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. Butler University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Why Butler University
Butler University is recognized for several unique strengths that contribute to its reputation:
1. High-Quality Education and Student-Centered Approach
- Butler is known for its strong commitment to providing a personalized, student-centered education. It has small class sizes, allowing close interactions between students and faculty, which leads to higher student satisfaction and success.
2. Outstanding Pharmacy and Health Sciences Programs
- Butler’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program is one of the most respected in the Midwest and the United States. The program’s rigorous curriculum and extensive clinical experiences make it a sought-after choice for aspiring pharmacists and health professionals.
3. Nationally Ranked Business School
- The Lacy School of Business is known for its high job placement rates and innovative programs in entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing. Butler’s strong business internship program and its network within Indianapolis’ business community offer valuable real-world experience, setting graduates up for successful careers.
4. Prestigious Arts Programs
- The Jordan College of the Arts is a leading program in performing arts, attracting students in dance, theater, and music. Butler is home to one of the most competitive ballet programs in the U.S., and students benefit from the opportunity to perform and work alongside professional artists and companies.
5. Successful Athletic Programs, Especially Basketball
- Butler is widely known for its men’s basketball program, which achieved national fame with back-to-back NCAA championship game appearances in 2010 and 2011. This Cinderella story captivated sports fans and highlighted Butler as a school that values both athletic excellence and academic integrity.
6. Experiential Learning and Strong Career Outcomes
- Butler emphasizes experiential learning across all programs, and students complete at least one internship before graduation. This real-world experience, combined with strong career support, helps Butler graduates achieve high job placement rates and competitive starting salaries.
7. Social Justice and Community Engagement
- Butler has a strong focus on social justice, inclusivity, and community engagement. Its College of Education, for instance, is dedicated to social equity in education, and the university as a whole is committed to initiatives that promote diversity and positive social impact.
8. Strategic Location and Industry Partnerships
- Located in Indianapolis, a vibrant city with a growing economy, Butler offers students access to a range of internships and networking opportunities in diverse fields like healthcare, business, technology, and media. This location gives students a competitive edge in job placements.
9. Sustainable and Innovative Campus
- Butler is committed to sustainability and innovation on campus, which includes green initiatives, eco-friendly buildings, and a commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. This commitment is attractive to environmentally conscious students and faculty.
These factors contribute to Butler’s reputation as a well-rounded institution that excels in academics, arts, athletics, and student development.
Butler University has specific language requirements for international students to ensure they have the English proficiency needed to succeed in their programs. Here are the main requirements:
1. English Proficiency Tests
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0.
- Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 110.
- SAT: If an international student has an SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 500 or higher, this can sometimes waive the English test requirement.
- ACT: A score of 19 or higher on the English section may also be considered for waiving English proficiency tests.
2. Conditional Admission
- For students who meet the academic requirements but do not meet the English language requirements, Butler may offer conditional admission. This allows students to first complete an English language program at Butler to build the necessary proficiency before starting their degree coursework.
3. Exemptions
- Students from countries where English is the primary language or who have completed secondary education in an English-speaking institution may be exempt from providing English proficiency scores. Butler evaluates these exemptions on a case-by-case basis.
4. Graduate Programs
- Some graduate programs may have higher English language requirements or specific subscore requirements. Students applying to graduate programs should check the specific department requirements for detailed information.
Butler also offers support for international students through English tutoring and additional language resources to help ease the transition into their studies.
Butler University, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is well-known for its programs in various disciplines. Here’s an overview of some key areas of specialty:
1. Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Butler’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (COPHS) is renowned, especially for its Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. Students gain hands-on experience in clinical settings, and the program is known for strong job placement rates.
- Other health-related programs include Healthcare and Business, Physician Assistant studies, and Health Sciences, providing a mix of medical and administrative training.
2. Business
- The Lacy School of Business offers programs in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, Marketing, and Risk Management and Insurance. It emphasizes experiential learning through internships and partnerships with companies in Indianapolis and beyond.
- The MBA program is popular, particularly for those interested in leadership and management consulting roles.
3. Performing Arts and Arts Administration
- Butler has a notable reputation in Dance, Music, and Theatre programs. Its Jordan College of the Arts provides conservatory-style training with a liberal arts foundation, preparing students for professional careers in the arts.
- The Arts Administration program is also unique, combining arts management with business skills, ideal for those interested in managing arts organizations.
4. Communication and Media
- The College of Communication offers specialties in Strategic Communication, Journalism, and Media, Rhetoric, and Culture. Students have opportunities to work with Butler’s student-run media outlets and gain practical experience in the field.
- Sports Media is another standout program, training students for careers in sports journalism, broadcasting, and sports information.
5. Education
- Butler’s College of Education focuses on teacher training and educational leadership. It’s particularly strong in Elementary and Middle/Secondary Education, with a commitment to experiential learning and a social justice framework.
- Programs also include specialties in School Counseling and Human Movement and Health Science Education.
6. Sciences and Liberal Arts
- The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers robust programs in Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Environmental Studies. These programs integrate research opportunities, preparing students for graduate studies and careers in research and health professions.
- Political Science and International Studies are also strong, with an emphasis on global engagement and internships in government, law, and non-profit organizations.
7. Engineering Dual-Degree Program
- Butler offers a unique dual-degree engineering program in collaboration with Purdue University, allowing students to earn two degrees—one from Butler in sciences or math and an engineering degree from Purdue.
8. Data and Analytics
- Butler is expanding in areas of Data Science and Analytics, integrating business, statistics, and computer science, to prepare students for careers in the data-driven economy.
Each program emphasizes experiential learning, with internship opportunities and real-world experiences integrated into the curriculum, leveraging Indianapolis’s urban resources to enhance student training and job placement.
Butler University has many esteemed professors across its various colleges, known for their contributions to their fields, dedication to teaching, and mentorship of students. Here are a few notable professors from different departments:
1. Dr. Robert Soltis – Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Dr. Soltis is the Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and an expert in pharmacology and healthcare education. Under his leadership, Butler’s pharmacy program has strengthened its experiential learning and clinical placements, maintaining its reputation as a top program in the Midwest.
2. Dr. Craig Caldwell – Lacy School of Business
- Dr. Caldwell serves as the Associate Dean and holds the Lawrence W. Inlow endowed Chair in Management. He is known for his expertise in strategic management and business ethics, playing a key role in developing Butler’s experiential learning initiatives and partnerships with local businesses to benefit students.
3. Dr. Valerie Davidson – College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Psychology
- Dr. Davidson specializes in developmental psychology and has published widely on child and adolescent development. She is respected for her dedication to mentoring students and her active engagement in research that directly involves undergraduates, preparing them for graduate studies and careers in psychology.
4. Dr. Michelle Jarvis – Jordan College of the Arts, Dance
- As a prominent faculty member in the Dance Department, Dr. Jarvis is known for her work in ballet and modern dance. She has played a pivotal role in growing Butler’s dance program, one of the most competitive in the U.S., and has a strong background in professional performance and choreography.
5. Dr. Terri Jett – Political Science, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Dr. Jett specializes in American politics, social justice, and civic engagement. As an outspoken advocate for social justice, she leads initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion on campus and is deeply involved in community work. Dr. Jett has been recognized with awards for her teaching and her efforts in public service.
6. Dr. Jay Howard – Sociology and Former Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- A noted scholar in sociology of education and religion, Dr. Howard has published extensively and is well-regarded for his research on classroom dynamics and engagement. He is also known for his commitment to faculty development and academic leadership, enhancing Butler’s liberal arts programs.
7. Dr. Dacia Charlesworth – College of Communication
- An expert in rhetoric, Dr. Charlesworth focuses on gender studies, rhetoric of social movements, and public communication. She is highly regarded for her research and teaching on how communication influences social change, and she mentors students in Butler’s Communication and Media programs.
8. Dr. Rusty Jones – Philosophy, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Dr. Jones, a scholar of ancient philosophy, especially in Plato and Aristotle, is highly respected for his contributions to the understanding of classical philosophy. He brings deep insights into ethical theory and metaphysics, engaging students in critical thinking and rigorous philosophical study.
These professors exemplify Butler’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community involvement, contributing significantly to Butler’s reputation for quality education.
While Butler University is a highly respected institution known for its strong academic programs and experiential learning focus, it is not currently associated with any Nobel Prize winners among its faculty, alumni, or researchers. Unlike some large research universities, Butler’s primary focus is on undergraduate education, small class sizes, and hands-on learning, rather than large-scale research output that often leads to Nobel Prize recognition.
However, Butler does have distinguished faculty and alumni who have made significant contributions in their fields, particularly in pharmacy, business, performing arts, and education. The university emphasizes impactful education and applied research, especially in fields where practical experience and community engagement are prioritized.
Butler’s focus on student success and community involvement allows it to stand out in other ways, such as through high job placement rates, exceptional health sciences programs, and strong performing arts training, building a reputation for excellence in teaching and applied learning.