Barry University is a private Catholic institution founded in 1940 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Nestled in Miami Shores, Florida, the university offers a wealth of academic opportunities within its small-campus setting, fostering a close-knit community with a student body of over 7,000. Its diverse range of programs spans across various fields including business, education, social work, and the sciences, offered through multiple schools and colleges. This institution has grown from its initial enrollment of a mere handful of students to a comprehensive university that prizes inclusivity and engagement.
A distinctive feature of Barry University is its emphasis on combining practical learning with a strong liberal arts foundation. For instance, the Andreas School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a recognition held by less than 5% of business schools worldwide, and it prepares students not just for the market demands but for ethical and sustainable leadership roles. The university's School of Podiatric Medicine is one of only nine schools in the United States offering this specialized program, catering to a niche in medical education and filling a crucial need in healthcare. Furthermore, Barry's commitment to social justice is demonstrated through its Center for Community Service Initiatives, which provides students with myriad opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings.
Barry University excels in creating an environment where students are not just educated but also encouraged to make a positive impact. Its law school, Barry University School of Law, has a high rate of community engagement and pro-bono work, instilling in its students a sense of civic duty and legal responsibility. The university boasts a strong NCAA Division II athletics program, where student-athletes consistently achieve both academically and in their respective sports. Additionally, Barry's marine biology program takes advantage of its proximity to the Florida coast, conducting meaningful research and conservation efforts in the surrounding marine environment.
Nonetheless, Barry University does face challenges, one of which is the inherent struggle of maintaining affordability in the wake of rising higher education costs. While it strives to provide generous financial aid, the balance of maintaining high-quality education and facilities with tuition rates that do not exclude potential students is a continual hurdle. Furthermore, its location, while idyllic and central to diverse ecological and urban resources, also means it contends with the cost of living in Miami, which can be high for students and staff alike. Lastly, as is common with many private universities, Barry faces the challenge of limited name recognition nationally, which can affect both student recruitment and fundraising efforts critical for university advancement.
