Bradley University is a private institution located in Peoria, Illinois, founded in 1897 by philanthropist Lydia Moss Bradley. It offers over 100 undergraduate and more than 30 graduate programs across five colleges. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and 22 specialized and professional accrediting agencies.
History
Lydia Moss Bradley established the university in memory of her husband, Tobias, and their six children, all of whom passed away prematurely. Initially named the Bradley Polytechnic Institute, it transitioned to Bradley University in 1946.
Academic Structure
Bradley University comprises several major components:
- College of Education and Health Sciences
- Caterpillar College of Engineering and Technology
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Foster College of Business
- Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts
- Turner School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The university also offers an Academic Exploration Program (AEP) for students who have not yet declared a major.
Athletics
The Bradley Braves compete in NCAA Division I sports as members of the Missouri Valley Conference. Men’s sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, indoor and outdoor track, and soccer. Women’s sports encompass basketball, cross country, golf, indoor and outdoor track, softball, tennis, and volleyball. The men’s basketball team has made nine appearances in the NCAA Tournament, reaching the Final Four in 1950 and 1954.
Notable Alumni
Bradley University has produced several distinguished alumni, including:
- Neil Flynn, actor known for his role in the television series “Scrubs”
- Hersey Hawkins, former NBA basketball player
- Chet Walker, NBA Hall of Famer
For more detailed information, you can visit Bradley University’s official website: