We Don't Just Work Within the System—We Change It
Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development is a top-ranked college that focuses on cross-disciplinary research, experiential learning, and community engagement. We seek to empower our students, faculty, and staff to reshape the systems that impact learning and human development, more firmly centering them in justice, diversity, and belonging.
BU Wheelock by the Numbers
Best Graduate Schools of Education, US News & World Report, 2026
Top Education Policy Programs, US News and World Report, 2026
in external research funds awarded in 2025
alumni worldwide
Our People
In the Media
Our History
A pioneer in early childhood education, Lucy Wheelock (1857-1946) was inspired by the then-radical German kindergarten movement and how it might serve communities of immigrant families. In 1888, she founded Miss Wheelock’s Training School, which later became Wheelock College. The first college at Boston University to be named after a woman, BU Wheelock carries Lucy’s name proudly.
Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development combines the best of both Boston University's School of Education and Wheelock College, which merged in 2018. An education-focused liberal arts college in Boston, Wheelock College offered undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as arts & sciences, education, child life, social work, and family studies. Founded in 1918 by Arthur H. Wilde, BU's School of Education prepared future teachers to excel in the classroom and invested its resources in community education and outreach, as well as high-quality educational training and research. Throughout our teaching, research, and mentoring, we are inspired by the legacies of both these institutions.
A Place to Make a Difference
At Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development, we prepare people to do more than work within systems. We prepare them to make those systems better.
Through education, research, and partnerships, our community is reimagining how people learn, grow, and thrive. We bring together the people, ideas, and expertise needed to challenge assumptions, dismantle barriers, and create more just and equitable futures for children, youth, families, and communities.
Here, big questions lead to meaningful action—and individual potential becomes collective impact.
