Baylor University, established in 1845, is a private Baptist research university located in Waco, Texas. As the oldest continuously operating university in Texas, it offers a vibrant campus community for over 20,000 students, blending interdisciplinary research with a strong commitment to educational excellence.
Academic Excellence
Baylor is recognized for its high academic standards, ranking among the top national universities in the United States. In the 2025 “Best Colleges” rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Baylor was ranked tied for 91st best “national university” in the U.S., tied at 26th for “Best Undergraduate Teaching”, and tied at 26th for “Most Innovative”.
Athletics
The Baylor Bears compete in NCAA Division I sports as part of the Big 12 Conference. The university’s athletic teams have achieved significant successes, including recent victories in men’s tennis against the University of Kansas and women’s basketball, where the Lady Bears advanced to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament.
Campus and Facilities
Situated along the Brazos River, Baylor’s 1,000-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the McLane Stadium for football and the Mayborn Museum for educational exhibits. The university continues to invest in campus development, enhancing both academic and recreational spaces for students.
Research and Graduate Programs
As a Research 1 institution, Baylor offers a range of graduate programs across various disciplines. However, recent developments have impacted its research initiatives. Baylor College of Medicine has had to scale back its research efforts and reduce the incoming graduate class size due to uncertainties around health research funding from the federal government.
The administration’s proposed cuts to research funding and diversity initiatives could result in a loss of up to $80 million for the institution.
Religious Affiliation
Affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, Baylor integrates faith with academic pursuits. This affiliation influences the university’s mission and community values, fostering a nurturing environment for spiritual and personal growth.
For more detailed information about Baylor University, including admissions and campus life, you can visit their official website at www.baylor.edu.