Wheelock College: Courses, Fees, and Rankings

Wheelock College, Boston's finest college, is a center of educational excellence and possibility in Boston. Providing a valued education with an emphasis on career preparation. Founded by Lucy Wheelock in 1888 as a kindergarten teacher training school, Wheelock College evolved into a distinguished institution committed to enhancing the lives of children and families through education, social work, and child life studies. In 2018, it merged with Boston University to become the Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development and carry on its mission as part of an extended community. Defined by specialist expertise, community values, and a learning-by-doing ethos. Wheelock College was established long ago to produce great teachers and activists. From its successful initiatives to its profound commitment to making a difference in the world, discover everything there is to know here in this blog!

About Wheelock College

BU Wheelock College, now an institution of the Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development, possesses what can only be described as a rich legacy of promoting social change via education. Wheelock was an established child development, social work, and family studies university before its merger with BU in 2018. Composed of a student body that is diverse and mission-oriented, based in Boston University's expansive urban campus. BU Wheelock provides a broad array of undergraduate and graduate education degrees in education, applied human development, counseling, and policy. With a student-faculty ratio of about 10:1 across BU Wheelock's programs, students enjoy small class sizes and one-on-one mentoring by faculty members who continue to work in research and practice. Wheelock graduates are highly respected teachers, child life specialists, social workers, and nonprofit professionals, and it is committed to diversity, equity, and community engagement worldwide.

Wheelock College Rankings

Wheelock College MA, consistently earns recognition for its academic excellence and value, securing its position as one of the best universities in the US. Boston University Wheelock is included in the top 50 of the United States' graduate schools of education in the 2025 Best Graduate Education Schools issue of U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its academic excellence and leadership in teacher preparation, counseling, and human development. BU as a whole is ranked #40 nationwide in the 2025 U.S. News rankings, with a strong reputation for research and international engagement. Although Wheelock College was an independent college, merged with BU in 2018, its legacy lives on through BU Wheelock's highly ranked programs. The college also has a reputation for research in educational equity, early childhood education, and social justice. BU ranks #93 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2025, further reflecting Wheelock's place within an internationally recognized university.

Wheelock College Courses

Wheelock College programs are available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels and are all designed to lead students into successful education, human development, and social services professions. The degrees that Wheelock offers are:

Wheelock College Tuition Fees & Other Costs

Understanding the Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development tuition cost is quite crucial to potential learners who wish to prepare their learning process. Undergraduate learners for academic year 2024–2025 will be in a position to expect an approximate total yearly cost of approximately $94,427, consisting of $66,100 of fees, plus fees, residence, board, books, equipment, and miscellaneous. BU Wheelock master's students would be paying a total of around $67,626 each year, of which tuition charges are $66,670 and other mandatory fees.

Although joining a private school comes at a price, BU Wheelock offers its students very good scholarships. Merit awards are awarded to up to 95% of graduate applicants, and the college itself awards more than $5.1 million worth of assistance annually. 

Wheelock College Scholarships

Undergraduate students can also benefit from merit scholarships such as the BU Trustee Scholarship whose tuition is waived in full, and the Presidential Scholarship, which covers $25,000 per year. Boston University even waives 100% of undergraduate demonstrated need for US students so that students with various financial backgrounds can have an affordable, quality education.

BU Wheelock balances academic achievement with affordability through aggressive scholarship and financial aid support so that students are not weighed down by costs while pursuing their higher education dreams. If you are an international student, there are a number of convenient ways of paying your tuition fees, so you can have a hassle-free and smooth experience! These include tuition, routine charges, residence, meals, books, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.

Wheelock College Admission Process

Wheelock College's admission process is geared towards making prospective students have an easy time through their application process in their undergraduate or graduate studies. Armed with the information of the individual deadlines, requirements, and components of each program, applicants can be assured that their submissions are full with time. If you wish to learn more about Wheelock's world-class education, social work, child life, or arts and sciences programs, the following step-by-step guide will lead you through the admission process confidently and concisely.

Admission Process for Bachelor's Degrees

• Fill Out the Application Form: Fill out the online undergraduate application for admission through Common Application, choosing Boston University, and stating your desire to undertake study under Wheelock College of Education & Human Development.
• Pay Application Fee: Pay an $80 non-refundable fee. Fee waivers are provided for students who qualify.
• Official High School Transcripts: You must provide an official high school transcript or the equivalent school of educational institution. Transcripts must state you were in good academic standing, particularly in the areas of concentration in core curriculum.
• Test Scores: Boston University does not require testing for undergraduate admissions, including Wheelock program applicants. If your ACT or SAT scores validate your application, you may forward them, but they are not required for admission.
• Letters of Recommendation: There should be one teacher assessment and one school counselor recommendation. These letters inform the admissions staff about your academic performance and your character.
• Personal Essay: You’ll need to submit a personal essay through the Common App that reflects on your academic interests, personal growth, and reasons for pursuing a degree at Wheelock College. 

Admission Process for Master’s Degrees

• Fill out the Application Form: Apply online through Boston University’s Graduate Admissions portal. Be sure to select your desired program under the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development.
• Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $95 is required for most graduate programs at Boston University. The fee can be paid online when submitting your application. Fee waivers may be available for eligible applicants.
• Official Transcripts: Official transcripts of all previous colleges or universities attended are to be provided. Admission to any graduate program entails a baccalaureate degree or its foreign equivalent.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation are typically needed. These should be from academic instructional staff members, supervisors, or professionals who are familiar with your credentials and ability to do well in graduate study.
• Personal Essay or Statement: Provide a personal statement that fully describes your academic goals, career aspirations, and reasons for applying to the particular graduate program at Wheelock College. This is a required component of your application and should be clearly stated and reflective of your motivation and fit for the program.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Upload a current resume or CV that lists your education, employment, internships, research, volunteer work, and other relevant achievements.
• Standardized Test Scores: The GRE is not required for most Wheelock graduate degrees. Candidates should, however, verify the test requirements of the specific program since only a small number of specialized tracks require tests.
• English Language Proficiency: If English is not your native language and you have not graduated from an English-speaking nation, you need to provide English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or DuoLingo English Test). A minimum program-specific score is needed.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Certain programs, including counselor, child life, or teacher licensure, can have requirements such as interviews, portfolios, licenses, or certain prerequisite courses. Check your target program's admissions page for additional requirements or deadlines.

Wheelock College Requirements & Selection Criteria

Wheelock College located in Boston has superior academic requirements to admit incoming students who demonstrate good academic preparation, service commitment, and interest to pursue education, child life, counseling, and human development. Each program requires varied requirements by degree level to ensure that the best qualified applicant will be admitted to succeed in the sought-after field. Therefore, make sure to thoroughly check the individual requirements of eligibility for your desired program prior to applying!

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor's Degrees

• Educational Qualification: The candidate should have passed a high school diploma or similar from a known secondary school. A satisfactory performance in core subjects, i.e., social sciences and English, is anticipated.
• GPA Requirement: A Competitive high school GPA is needed for admission. Although Wheelock does not release specific cutoffs, Boston University admitted students generally have a 3.6 to 4.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, indicating consistent academic achievement.
• Standardized Test Scores: Boston University is test-optional, except for Wheelock College programs. Nonetheless, if they are submitted, SAT scores of 1360 or better or ACT scores of 30 or better (middle 50% ranges) would make your application more competitive.
• English Language Competence: Foreign students whose native language is not English must provide evidence of English competence as suggested by normed examinations, such as the TOEFL (min: 90 iBT), IELTS (min score: 7.0), or Duolingo English Test (minimum score: 120). Exceptions are permitted for past English-educated candidates.
• Program-Specific Requirements: With the exception of teacher licensure and child life tracks, Wheelock's undergraduate programs have few requirements, but may require documentation of similar coursework, volunteer hours, or course preparation in the area of human development or psychology. Check the program page to see if there are additional requirements or preparation recommendations.

Eligibility Criteria for Master's Degrees

• Educational Qualification: The applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Last semester undergraduate students are also eligible to apply along with a certified transcript, provided degree conferral to join.
• GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA is required. However, low-GPA candidates can also be admitted if they are demonstrated to possess exceptional academic ability through concurrent professional experience, advanced-level coursework, or other credentials.
• Standard Test Scores: Graduate studies at Wheelock College do not usually ask for GRE and GMAT scores for most of its programs. They may be required for some special programs, but some have made them optional or exempted them. Prospective students should inquire about the requirement of the program.
• English Language Proficiency: International non-native English speakers applying from outside the country need to demonstrate their proficiency using standard tests such as the TOEFL (minimum iBT 90), IELTS (minimum 7.0), or Duolingo English Test (minimum 120). Waivers may be granted to individuals who have previously enrolled in an English-speaking university.
• Work Experience (For Certain Programs): Professional experience is optional but strongly advised—and mandatory in some cases—for programs such as child life, counseling, educational leadership, and policy studies. Such work experience as with children, families, or in education can be the best asset to include in an application.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Depending on the program, the applicants may need to provide writing samples, portfolios, or an interview. For example, MS in Child Life & Family-Centered Care students must provide child life coursework documentation and written clinical practicum.

Wheelock College Student Life

Wheelock College offers its students a dynamic campus life rich with the promise of exploring interests, leadership building, and belonging to an empathetic, mission-driven community. Whether your passion is education, social work, child development, advocacy, or the arts, there are many ways to become engaged. Wheelock students are able to create groups like the Student Government Association, Education Policy & Advocacy Club, BU Wheelock Graduate Student Association, and other university groups on identity, service, and area of academic interest so that all can find something where they feel at home.

With its campus located in downtown Boston, Wheelock students have convenient access to the city's top cultural attractions and entertainment. From strolling through masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts, experiencing innovative installations at the Institute of Contemporary Art, or strolling along the historic Freedom Trail, Boston's culture is always inspiring.

Outside of museums, Boston's student culture and walkable downtown city environment make it perfect to explore independently. Attend a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, sing along at a free summer concert on the Esplanade, or hang out with pals on the Charles River. The locality is also lined with the best cafes in Boston, one of them being Study Haunts popular among Wheelock students, such as Pavement Coffeehouse, Flour Bakery, and Tatte Bakery & Café.

Students enjoy relaxing in the Boston Public Garden, going on a ferry ride to the Harbor Islands, or basking in the action of Newbury Street and Harvard Square. From exceptional dining, independent bookstores, and student cafes, every few steps away, Wheelock's life outside class is as rewarding as it is in class.

Why You Should Come to Wheelock College

1.  Distinguished Internship Opportunities

Internships and field placements provide Wheelock College students with concrete, hands-on learning in the best schools, hospitals, non-profit organizations, and government agencies in Boston and nationally. Wheelock has close relationships with agencies such as Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Public Schools, Massachusetts General Hospital, and The Home for Little Wanderers. Nearly all graduate and undergraduate students have practicum or internship experiences within their program, which gives them practical experience, professional contacts, and a competitive edge in their field.

2. Diverse and Inclusive Campus Community

Wheelock College enthusiastically establishes a global and inclusive community that further serves Boston University's mission of social justice, equity, and belonging. Learners from multiple cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and countries of the world learn from one another in a celebratory and supportive environment that acknowledges, listens to, and empowers identity, advocacy, and inclusive leadership. Wheelock's cultural celebrations, peer mentorship initiatives, student-led equity initiatives, and affinity groups provide each student a feeling of being heard, seen, and empowered to excel academically and socially.

3. Large Academic Programs

Wheelock College provides a full spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to prepare students to make a difference in the world. Academic offerings range from Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education to Child Life & Family-Centered Care, Applied Human Development, Special Education, Counseling, Educational Leadership, and beyond. Programs are designed with real-world experience, evidence-based practice, and community involvement that students can apply to education, healthcare, public service, and nonprofit leadership professional paths.

Wheelock College Placements

Wheelock College is committed to helping its graduates launch successful, fulfilling careers in education, health care, human services, and public policy. Through focus on field-based practice and professional development, over 90% of Wheelock graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. Our graduates work in esteemed organizations across New England and the nation, including Boston Public Schools, Boston Children's Hospital, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Head Start, and non-profits. Wheelock graduates are teachers, child life specialists, school counselors, behavioral analysts, education leaders, and more.

Although salaries vary by practice specialty and licensure, starting salaries for BU Wheelock graduates are generally between $50,000 and $70,000 with potential increases by specialty and years of experience. Perhaps most importantly, however, Wheelock graduates are prepared with the knowledge, responsiveness, and leadership to be of significant impact in children's, families', and communities' lives.

Wheelock College Distinguished Alumni

Wheelock College boasts of distinguished alumni who have made great contributions in education, advocacy for children, public service, and social change. Cultivated from Wheelock's passion to work with children and families, these alumni have leadership, empathy, and commitment. Listed below are 10 distinguished alumni who have brought honor to the college:

• Jeri Robinson ('71) – An early childhood education pioneer and creator of Boston's Universal Pre-K program.
• Beverly Edgehill ('87) – Past-CEO of The Partnership, Inc., advocating for leadership and diversity in business.
• Wilhelmina "Billie" Harris ('64) – Boston teacher and activist for greater access to quality public education.
• Karen Worth ('68) – Science education specialist who helped create first science curriculum.
• Rev. Liz Walker (Honorary Alumna) – former-TV news anchor to become a minister and human rights activist who championed racial justice.
• Nancy Carlsson-Paige ('65) – Expert in early childhood development and co-founder of Defending the Early Years.
• Kim Janey (Wheelock alumnus) – First African American woman to serve as Boston's Mayor (2021).
• Diane Levin ('68) – Media and child development expert and long-time Wheelock professor.
• Maureen Allden ('77) – Arts education activist and former principal at Boston Arts Academy.
• Ellen Frede ('83) – Pre-K policy leader and co-director of the National Institute for Early Education Research.

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Best Student Housing Near Wheelock College

While Wheelock College (as part of Boston University) offers access to on-campus housing, many graduate and upper-level undergraduate students choose to live off-campus for greater independence and flexibility. The surrounding neighborhoods of Fenway–Kenmore, Brookline, and Allston provide a diverse range of housing options—from shared apartments and homestays to modern studios and student-oriented residences, all within proximity to campus.

Well-equipped student housing communities near the university come with amenities like study lounges, fitness centers, and convenient access to public transportation. For those seeking safe and affordable off-campus housing, Amber provides a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top off-campus housing options near the University!

1. Lightview, Boston - Just a 9-minute drive from the college, the property has a variety of amenities like Roommate Matching, Wi-Fi, an On-site package center & Mail Room, and much more. This property has a variety of room types, like a Room in 2 Bed - 2 Bath B, a Room in 2 Bed - 2 Bath A, and a 1 Bed - 1 Bath.

2. 1047 Commonwealth, Boston - Just 10 minutes from the college, this property is fully furnished and has a variety of private room options.

3. Imprint, Dorchester - Located 13 minutes from the college, the property has a variety of amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, weekly housekeeping, AC, and much more. The property has various private rooms to suit all your needs!

4. The Tremont, Boston - Just 21 minutes from the college, the property has a variety of facilities and private room options to cater to your wants and needs!

5. Bower, Boston - Located just 6 minutes from the college, the property has amenities like a rooftop pool, sundeck, and much more. This property has private room options to suit your needs.

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