Overview of Tulane University
Tulane University, officially established in 1834 as the Medical College of Louisiana, is a distinguished private research university located in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. With a storied evolution—from its beginnings as a medical college to a comprehensive university—Tulane today serves approximately 14,500 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. The university operates on a main campus in uptown New Orleans, with additional research and outreach facilities. Recognized for combining rigorous academics with deeply-rooted civic engagement, Tulane stands as a prominent member of the Association of American Universities (AAU).
Academically, Tulane University is celebrated for its excellence in public health, biomedical sciences, law, environmental sciences, business, and architecture. Its schools—such as the highly ranked School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and the School of Law—offer innovative interdisciplinary programs and foster experiential learning. Tulane emphasizes cross-disciplinary research, addressing critical issues such as coastal resilience, infectious diseases, and social justice. The university has a notable research portfolio, with annual research expenditures exceeding $160 million and partnerships worldwide, including exchange programs and collaborations with institutions like the National Institutes of Health and leading universities. Tulane consistently ranks among the top 50 national universities according to U.S. News & World Report, underscoring its academic impact.
The Tulane student experience is vibrant and inclusive, featuring over 200 student clubs, active Greek life, and a range of cultural and service organizations. Noted for its strong commitment to public service, the university requires undergraduates to complete service-learning as part of the curriculum. Diversity and global engagement are core values, reflected in a student body representing all 50 U.S. states and more than 60 countries. Tulane’s campus offers residential housing, NCAA Division I athletics, outstanding arts programs, and extensive wellness and support services. Annual events like Crawfest and the Wave Goodbye celebration enrich the community culture, ensuring students thrive both academically and socially.
Guided by its mission to create and disseminate knowledge for the benefit of society, Tulane University is dedicated to fostering innovation, equity, and global citizenship. The institution’s core values center on advancing societal well-being, nurturing diverse perspectives, and preparing leaders to address the world’s most pressing challenges.
