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At Stanford, students dive into a dynamic environment where academic rigor meets real-world application. The university’s acclaimed majors attract top minds from around the globe, fostering a culture of innovation and discovery.
Beyond academics, Stanford's campus life buzzes with activity, from diverse student organizations to cutting-edge research opportunities. Embracing the legacy of its founders, Stanford continually seeks new ways to improve the world, driving advancements in technology, medicine, and sustainability.
The university’s interdisciplinary approach and commitment to ethical principles ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers and lives of service.
About Stanford
Stanford University, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, is synonymous with innovation, academic excellence, and vibrant campus life. Founded almost 150 years ago by Leland and Jane Stanford in memory of their only child, Stanford's mission has always been to benefit society through education and research.
Known for its top-tier programs in fields such as computer science, engineering, and business, Stanford fosters a spirit of possibility and a culture of pioneering research.
Whether you're drawn to its rich history, athletic achievements, or the unique advantages of its robust alumni network, Stanford offers a transformative educational experience that shapes the leaders of tomorrow.
Majors: Stanford’s Academic Prowess
Stanford University is known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse array of majors. Among the most popular majors at Stanford in 2023 are:
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Computer Science: Stanford's Computer Science program is globally acclaimed. The university is at the forefront of technological innovation, with faculty and alumni leading groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity. As part of the CS major, students complete a set of core courses that provide a foundation in CS theory and systems. Students also choose a concentration area to gain greater depth in a particular area of computing. The track can be chosen from:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biocomputation
- Computer Engineering
- Graphics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Information, Systems
- Theory
- Unspecialized
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Economics: Stanford's Economics program is highly respected, offering students a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, policy, and practice. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, government, and the private sector. Stanford groups Economics courses into six Focus Areas:
- Behavioral & Experimental
- Finance
- International & Development
- Government Policy Analysis
- Quantitative Methods
- Business Strategy and Regulation
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Engineering: Stanford's engineering graduates are highly sought after in both academia and industry. The School of Engineering is home to 10 departmental and six interdepartmental major programs. Departmental programs include:
- Aeronautics and Astronautics (AA)
- Bioengineering (BioE)
- Chemical Engineering (CHE)
- Civil Engineering (CE)
- Computer Science (CS)
- Electrical Engineering (EE)
- Environmental Systems Engineering (ENVSE)
- Management Science and Engineering (MS&E)
- Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)
- Mechanical Engineering (ME)
and interdepartmental major programs include:
- Architectural Design (AD)
- Atmosphere and Energy (A/E)
- Biomechanical Engineering (BME)
- Biomedical Computation (BMC)
- Engineering Physics (EPhys)
- Individually Designed Major in Engineering
- Product Design (PD)
- Petroleum engineering (now called Energy Resources Engineering)
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Human Biology: This interdisciplinary major combines biological and social sciences to provide a holistic understanding of human health and behavior. It prepares students for careers in healthcare, research, and public policy. For the B.A. degree, coursework must be predominantly in the social sciences and humanities, with a minority in the natural sciences.
For the B.S. degree, coursework must be predominantly in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science and/or engineering fields, with a minority in the social sciences.
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Symbolic Systems: A unique interdisciplinary program that merges computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and psychology to explore the nature of intelligent systems, both human and artificial. This major is ideal for students interested in cognitive science and artificial intelligence.
The program prepares students for careers in corporate and private sectors as well as for further study in graduate school.
Campus Life: A Vibrant Community
Stanford's campus life is dynamic and multifaceted, providing a rich environment for personal growth and social engagement. Some highlights include:
- Residential Education: Stanford’s residential education program fosters a close-knit community. Students live in diverse housing options, from traditional dormitories to themed houses, promoting a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Nearly all undergraduates and about 72% of graduate students live in 81 undergraduate student residences and 151 graduate on-campus residences. With nine dining halls, a teaching kitchen, and organic gardens, Stanford provides students with healthy, sustainable meals.
- Extracurricular Activities: With over 600 student organizations, there’s something for everyone. Stanford students compete in 36 varsity sports and 43 club sports. From performing arts and cultural clubs to entrepreneurial ventures and tech-focused groups, students can pursue a wide range of interests.
- Research Opportunities: Stanford offers extensive research opportunities for undergraduates, enabling students to work alongside leading faculty on innovative projects across various disciplines. The university is home to more than 20 individual libraries, each with a world-class collection of books, journals, films, maps and databases as well as 15 Institutes across interdisciplinary boundaries.
History: A Legacy of Innovation
Stanford was founded in 1885 by California Senator, Leland Stanford, and his wife, Jane Stanford in memory of their only child. Stanford University was envisioned as a place of learning, discovery, and innovation. Over the years, it has grown from a regional institution into a global leader in education and research.
Leland Stanford Junior University—still its legal name—opened on October 1, 1891. The Stanfords and founding President David Starr Jordan aimed for the university to teach the traditional liberal arts and the emerging fields of technology and engineering.
The university's distinctive architecture, designed by the Boston firm Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge in collaboration with Frederick Law Olmsted, was created to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and expansion.
Significant milestones in Stanford's history include:
- The Establishment of Silicon Valley: Stanford has been pivotal in the development of Silicon Valley. The university’s close ties with the tech industry have fostered a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Nobel Laureates and Pioneers: Stanford boasts numerous Nobel laureates and pioneering scholars in various fields, contributing to its reputation as a premier research institution. The university is home to 20 living Nobel laureates and Sixteen deceased laureates.
Sports: Excellence on and off the Field
Stanford is not only known for its academic achievements but also for its athletic prowess. In the 2023-24 academic year, Stanford has 36 varsity sports, 20 for women, and 16 for men (sailing is a co-ed sport)
In addition to its varsity sports, Stanford Athletics offers campus-wide physical education academic classes, fitness and wellness, aquatics, intramurals, adventure programming and 43 club sports.
The university has a storied history in collegiate sports, including:
- Football: The Stanford Cardinal football team is a powerhouse in college football, with multiple conference championships and appearances in prestigious bowl games.
- Olympic Athletes: Stanford has produced many Olympic athletes, who have collectively won hundreds of medals, showcasing the university's commitment to excellence in athletics.
- Diverse Sports Programs: Stanford offers a wide range of sports programs, from basketball and swimming to tennis and golf, with top-notch facilities and coaching staff.
As of December 2023, Stanford Athletics boasts:
- 163 National championships
- 134 National NCAA team championships
- 58 NCAA Team Championships since 2000
- 13 Stanford scholar-athletes who have been Rhodes Scholars
- 296 Olympic medals won by 177 Stanford-affiliated athletes
- 635 Individual national champions
- 554 Individual NCAA champions
- 47 Consecutive years with at least one NCAA championship
Unique Advantages: The Stanford Network
One of the most significant advantages of a Stanford education is the robust alumni network and the opportunities it affords:
- Influential Alumni: Stanford’s alumni network includes prominent figures in business, technology, politics, and the arts. Notable alumni include Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.
- Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: The university’s proximity to Silicon Valley and its strong focus on innovation create a fertile ground for entrepreneurship. Many successful startups, including Google, Hewlett-Packard, and Snapchat, were founded by Stanford alumni.
- Global Connections: Stanford’s international reputation attracts students and faculty from around the world, fostering a global perspective and creating a network that spans continents.
Final Thoughts
Stanford University is a private research university known for its academic excellence, innovation, and athletic achievement.
Its distinguished programs, vibrant campus life, rich history, and unique advantages make it a top choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience. Ranked #3 in the nation, Stanford's cutting-edge research, influential alumni, or dynamic community continue to shape the future and inspire the next generation of leaders.
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