
1501 W. Bradley Avenue, Peoria, IL 61625-0002, USA


Courtesy of Bradley University
Bradley University was founded in 1897 by Lydia Moss Bradley, a determined philanthropist who aimed to create lasting educational opportunities. Originally established as Bradley Polytechnic Institute, the institution focused on practical and technical education, aligning with the needs of the industrial era. Over time, Bradley University expanded its academic programs beyond technical fields to include liberal arts and sciences, reflecting its commitment to comprehensive higher education.
The university's growth mirrors its adaptation to changing educational demands, transitioning from an institute primarily serving local communities to a respected university with a diverse student body. This evolution highlights Bradley University's dedication to balancing tradition with innovation, offering programs designed to prepare students for a broad range of careers. Throughout its history, Bradley has maintained a focus on fostering both academic excellence and practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the professional world.
Its origins rooted in the vision of a single benefactor, Bradley University today stands as an institution that values community engagement and academic rigor equally. The history of the university thus provides prospective students a glimpse into an institution shaped by purposeful growth and adaptability, factors crucial when considering a suitable college choice.
Bradley University offers a diverse range of academic faculties designed to meet the interests and career goals of its students. The College of Education and Health Sciences prepares individuals for professions in teaching, counseling, and health-related fields, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. For those interested in business, the Foster College of Business provides programs that encompass areas such as accounting, management, marketing, and finance, emphasizing applied learning and professional development.
The Caterpillar College of Engineering and Technology features departments that cover disciplines including mechanical, electrical, civil, and computer engineering, focusing on innovation and hands-on training. Additionally, the Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts supports creative pursuits in media, journalism, music, theatre, and design, encouraging both artistic growth and technical skill advancement.
Bradley University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences includes traditional academic departments spanning humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, allowing students to explore a broad spectrum of subjects that develop critical thinking and research abilities.
Bradley University is situated at 1501 W. Bradley Avenue in Peoria, Illinois, within the Midwest region of the United States. The university's ZIP code is 61625-0002. Peoria offers students access to urban amenities while maintaining a community-oriented atmosphere suitable for campus life.
Prospective students will find the city well-connected by the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport, providing convenient travel options for both domestic and limited international flights. For local communications, the area code 676-7611 serves the university and its surrounding community, making it easy to stay connected.
Bradley University emphasizes a commitment to comprehensive education that prepares students for meaningful careers and responsible citizenship. Its mission focuses on delivering a high-quality learning experience that integrates a strong foundation in the liberal arts and professional studies, aiming to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and ethical awareness. The university strives to foster an environment where students can develop both intellectually and personally, equipping them with the skills needed to adapt and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
The vision of Bradley University centers on being recognized nationally for academic excellence and student-centered learning. It aspires to be a leader in providing innovative programs that connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are prepared for leadership roles in their fields. A key aspect of this vision is sustaining a supportive community that encourages collaboration, diversity, and lifelong learning among all students.
Name of the institution
Bradley UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
City: MidsizeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
5,000 - 9,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1897
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$58,768Business Administration, Management and Operations
$47,182Civil Engineering
$59,353Computer Engineering
$71,454Computer Science
$50,879Construction Engineering
$67,331Design and Applied Arts
$32,786Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
$72,568Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Business Services
$37,803Finance and Financial Management Services
$51,705Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
$29,000Industrial Engineering
$66,979International Business
$49,705Management Information Systems and Services
$56,736Manufacturing Engineering
$62,628Marketing
$44,008Mechanical Engineering
$66,802Psychology, General
$33,158Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
$36,966Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$62,749Special Education and Teaching
$38,322Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
$38,068Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
$38,928