Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private research university located in Provo, Utah. Founded in 1875 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), it is the largest religious university and the third-largest private university in the United States, with a student body of approximately 33,000 undergraduates and postgraduates. Nestled at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, BYU's sprawling 560-acre campus provides a scenic backdrop for a diverse academic community with a commitment to religious education and academic excellence.
BYU is unique in its integration of spiritual learning with academic pursuit, providing an environment that emphasizes the moral and ethical aspects of education in accordance with LDS principles. One of the standout features of BYU is its extensive language program, offering instruction in over 60 languages due to its strong emphasis on international studies and missionary work. Additionally, BYU's Marriott School of Business consistently ranks among the top business schools in the country, notable for its undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting, entrepreneurship, and management. The university is also home to the BYU Cougars athletic program, which enjoys robust support and is well-regarded for its competitive teams, particularly in football and men's volleyball.
Brigham Young University prides itself on its close-knit community and service-oriented culture. The university promotes service learning, where students engage with local and international communities, applying their studies to real-world problems. This is exemplified by the BYU Center for Service and Learning, which coordinates thousands of hours of student-led service projects each year. Academically, BYU is recognized for its strong programs in family life studies, animation, and law, with the J. Reuben Clark Law School being highly rated, particularly for its research on family law and religious freedom. The university also benefits from a high level of student engagement, facilitated by a low student-to-faculty ratio, leading to frequent collaboration and mentorship opportunities.
However, the intertwined nature of religious doctrine with university policy at BYU presents certain challenges. For instance, the university's Honor Code reflects LDS beliefs and may be experienced as restrictive by some, including mandates on dress and grooming standards, prohibitions on alcohol and coffee, and other lifestyle regulations. Furthermore, LGBTQ+ students have voiced concerns about the campus climate, as the Honor Code has historically been difficult for these students to navigate. Altercations regarding expression and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals have, at times, highlighted tensions between university policies and the experiences of this part of the student population. These factors can affect the university's appeal to a broader demographic and have implications for campus diversity and inclusivity.
