For students interested in studying finance, both Bentley University and Boston University offer strong academic programs, but Bentley is generally considered more specialized and career-focused in finance and business, while Boston University provides a broader, research-driven education with wider campus resources. The best choice depends on your career goals, learning preferences, and the type of college experience you seek.
Background: Bentley and Boston University at a Glance
Bentley University is a private business-focused institution located in Waltham, Massachusetts, about 10 miles from downtown Boston. It has a long-standing reputation for business education, particularly in finance, accounting, and analytics. Boston University (BU), on the other hand, is a large private research university located in the heart of Boston, offering a wide array of academic programs across many disciplines, including a well-regarded Questrom School of Business.
Finance Programs: Curriculum and Focus
Bentley’s finance program is part of its larger business school, with a curriculum deeply integrated with real-world applications, data analytics, and technology. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Finance, with options to concentrate further (such as in Financial Planning or Capital Markets). The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, including access to the Bentley Trading Room, Bloomberg terminals, and partnerships with industry professionals.
Boston University’s Questrom School of Business offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a concentration in Finance. The program provides a strong foundation in business fundamentals, quantitative analysis, and global perspectives. BU’s curriculum is broader, allowing students to double major or minor in non-business fields more easily than at Bentley. Questrom also offers experiential learning and access to Boston’s financial sector, but with a less singular focus on finance than Bentley.
Reputation and Rankings
- Bentley University: Consistently ranked among the top business schools for undergraduate finance by outlets like U.S. News & World Report. Recognized for its career services and alumni outcomes in finance and accounting fields.
- Boston University: Questrom School of Business is highly ranked nationally and globally, with strong recognition for its research, faculty, and graduate employability across multiple business disciplines, including finance.
While rankings fluctuate year to year, Bentley is often perceived as more specialized for finance and business, whereas BU’s Questrom is seen as a top general business program in a major research university setting.
Career Outcomes and Networking
Bentley boasts high job placement rates for finance graduates, with many students securing internships and full-time positions at major financial institutions, consulting firms, and accounting companies. The school’s career services office is particularly proactive, offering career fairs, resume workshops, mock interviews, and a strong alumni network in the finance sector.
Boston University also offers robust career support, with its students benefiting from the school’s large alumni base and direct proximity to Boston’s financial district. BU’s broader academic network can be an advantage for students interested in combining finance with other fields, such as economics, international relations, or tech.
Campus Experience and Student Life
Bentley has a suburban campus with a close-knit, business-oriented student community. Class sizes tend to be smaller, and most activities, clubs, and events are geared toward business and finance interests. The campus environment is collaborative, with students sharing similar career ambitions.
Boston University, in contrast, offers an urban campus with a diverse student body and a wide range of extracurricular activities beyond business. Students have access to the cultural, professional, and social opportunities of Boston, and can easily interact with peers pursuing studies in the arts, sciences, engineering, and more. BU’s campus life is more varied and less business-centric than Bentley’s.
Admissions Selectivity and Student Profile
- Bentley University: Moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically in the 40-50% range. Applicants should have strong math and analytical skills, and a demonstrated interest in business or finance.
- Boston University: More selective, with an acceptance rate generally below 20%. Questrom applicants are expected to have high academic achievement, strong standardized test scores (if submitted), and broad extracurricular involvement.
Both schools value leadership, communication skills, and a passion for business, but BU’s larger applicant pool and higher selectivity make admission more competitive.
Costs and Financial Aid
Both Bentley and BU are private universities with tuition and fees that are among the higher end in the U.S. For the 2023-2024 academic year:
- Bentley University: Tuition and fees are approximately $60,000 per year, not including room and board.
- Boston University: Tuition and fees are also around $63,000 per year, with additional costs for housing and personal expenses.
Both schools offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Bentley is known for generous merit awards for business-focused students, while BU’s aid is competitive and more need-based. It’s important to use each school’s net price calculator to estimate your actual costs after aid.
Location and Industry Connections
Bentley’s Waltham location offers a quieter, suburban environment, but it is close enough to Boston for students to access internships, networking events, and job opportunities in the city’s financial district. Bentley regularly brings in guest speakers and hosts events with local employers.
Boston University’s location in the city is a major advantage for students looking to immerse themselves in Boston’s vibrant financial services sector. BU students can more easily attend industry events, secure internships during the academic year, and network with alumni working in various finance roles across the city.
How to Choose: Factors to Consider
- Career Goals: If your goal is a career in finance, especially in investment banking, asset management, or corporate finance, Bentley’s specialized program may offer more direct preparation. For broader business interests or combining finance with another field, BU is a strong choice.
- Campus Environment: Prefer a tight-knit, business-focused community? Bentley may be better. Want a large, urban, diverse campus? Consider BU.
- Academic Flexibility: BU offers more opportunities for double majors and interdisciplinary study. Bentley is more focused but still offers some flexibility within business disciplines.
- Admissions Competitiveness: BU is harder to get into, so your academic profile may influence your options.
- Cost and Aid: Compare financial aid offers carefully, as your net cost may vary significantly.
Common Challenges and Misconceptions
Some students assume that a business-focused school like Bentley limits career options to finance or accounting, but in reality, many graduates go into consulting, analytics, or tech roles. Conversely, BU’s broader program means students must be proactive in seeking out finance-specific opportunities, as the competition for top internships can be intense due to the larger student population.
Another misconception is that rankings alone determine program quality. In practice, fit, networking, hands-on opportunities, and faculty support matter just as much as national reputation.
Alternatives to Consider
Other Boston-area schools with strong finance or business programs include:
- Babson College: Known for entrepreneurship and business, with strong finance courses.
- Northeastern University: Offers a robust finance program and the unique advantage of co-op work experiences.
- Boston College (Carroll School of Management): Highly ranked for finance and located just outside Boston.
Each has its own strengths, so students should consider size, campus culture, and career placement when choosing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which school has better job placement in finance?
Bentley is renowned for high job placement rates in finance due to its specialized focus and strong employer connections. BU also places many students in finance roles, especially those who take advantage of internships and networking in Boston. - Can I double major or minor in non-business subjects at Bentley?
Bentley offers some flexibility with minors and second majors, mainly within business disciplines. BU provides more opportunities to double major or minor in non-business fields due to its larger liberal arts offerings. - How important is location for finance internships?
Location is significant, especially for year-round internships. BU’s city location is ideal for accessing Boston’s financial firms, but Bentley students can also easily commute into the city for opportunities. - What are class sizes like?
Bentley typically has smaller class sizes, especially in upper-level finance courses. BU’s classes can be larger, particularly in introductory courses, but upper-level courses tend to be smaller and more interactive. - Is a degree from Bentley or BU more respected by employers?
Both are respected, especially in the Northeast. Bentley is well-known among finance and accounting recruiters, while BU carries broader name recognition nationally and internationally. - Are there study abroad opportunities?
Both universities offer study abroad programs. BU’s options are more extensive due to its global campus network, but Bentley also has strong business-focused programs abroad.
Summary: Which Is Right for You?
Bentley University is ideal for students seeking a focused, business-centric education with direct pathways into finance careers and a supportive, specialized environment. Boston University is better suited for those wanting a broader university experience, more academic flexibility, and access to the diverse opportunities of a major city. Both offer excellent finance programs, but your personal goals, learning style, and campus preferences should guide your decision.
See the main Bentley University pros and cons.