The state of Massachusetts boasts some of the best universities in the world, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the awe-inspiring pinnacle of higher education, Harvard University. Although many of these universities are considered world-class institutions, several stand out as a result of their tremendous campus resources and beauty.
Adding to its academic prestige, Harvard’s campus and resources are among the best in the world. Established in 1636, Harvard University was the first institution of higher education founded in the United States. As a result of its longevity, its campus is steeped in history and tradition. Harvard University’s Sever Hall and University Hall are both designated as National Historic Landmarks. The main campus encircles the Harvard Yard, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of the greater Boston area. Given its close proximity to Boston, Harvard students and faculty have access to tremendous cultural resources and events, not to mention world class dining and entertainment. Harvard University itself has four widely acclaimed art museums, several theatre companies and numerous film societies. Additionally, Harvard’s main campus is home to the largest academic library in the world. Both historic and beautiful, the campus of Harvard University offers student and faculty unparalleled cultural and academic resources located in a backdrop of history and charm.
Another great campus in the state of Massachusetts is the main campus of Boston College, located in the picturesque region of Chestnut Hill. Located approximately five miles outside of Boston, Boston College is far enough away from Boston to avoid some of the traffic and congestion, but close enough to allow easy access to the city. Overlooking the scenic Chestnut Hill Reservoir, the campus creates the illusion that is it located in remote countryside. Historic Gothic architecture and wide-open green gardens create an almost pastoral setting just outside of a major metropolis. A jogging loop is located around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. There is even a meadow located near campus. Boston College also offers many cultural resources as well. The McMullen Museum of Art, the Robsham Theater Arts Center and John J. Burns Library of Rare Books and Special Collections allow students the opportunity to enjoy great theatre performances and peruse works of historical significance. Athletic fans can also enjoy NCAA Division I-A sports, including football, men’s and women’s basketball, and hockey on the Boston College campus. The William J. Flynn Recreational Center offers students access to an Olympic size pool, a diving well, and a spa in addition to several gymnasiums and indoor tennis courts. Boston College students and faculty also have walking access to the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, parts of which have been designated as historic districts by the National Register of Historic Places. Upscale shopping, dining and entertainment venues can be found in this picturesque, historic neighborhood.
In terms of history and academic prestige, there are few states that rival the state of Massachusetts. Although home to many world-renowned universities and colleges, Harvard University and Boston College are prime examples of the best college campuses Massachusetts has to offer students. Both campuses offer historic charm coupled with easy access to the cultural resources of the great city of Boston.
