Ball State University
Muncie, United States • Founded 1918 • World Rank #2879
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1918, the Ball State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Muncie (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Indiana.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Ball State University (BSU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Ball State University (BSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 106-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
BSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
For visits or applications to Ball State University, location and primary contact details are below. Open days are typically announced via social channels — follow them to receive event notifications.
Academic Details
Below: the academic-side numbers and recognition that shape Ball State University's reputation. Recognition and accreditation are distinct — recognition is government-level, accreditation programme-specific.
Academic Structures
The departmental layout below shows how Ball State University groups subjects, faculties, and teaching units. Subject grouping reflects institutional priorities, research strengths, and historical evolution.
Unit 7 items
- College of Applied Sciences and Technology
- College of Architecture and Planning
- College of Communication, Information and Media
- College of Fine Arts
- College of Sciences and Humanities
- Miller College of Business
- Teachers College
Programs Offered
Ball State University's catalogue, searchable by name and grouped by level. Joint programmes with partner institutions appear here but carry dual-credentialing rules worth checking with both bodies.
218 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 90 programmes
Showing 10 of 90.
Master's Degree 58 programmes
Showing 10 of 58.
Doctorate 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
Professional Doctorate 2 programmes
Associate's Degree 4 programmes
Certificate 8 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 44 programmes
Showing 10 of 44.
How to apply to Ball State University
How to apply to Ball State University — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Ball State University's catalogue includes 218 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Ball State University's admissions process.
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3
Get your documents ready
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Submit your completed application through Ball State University's official website at www.bsu.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (765) 289 1241. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ball State University
Frequently asked questions about Ball State University, covering the institutional basics most prospective applicants want to confirm first.
How old is Ball State University?
The institution opened in 1918 (approximately 108 years ago).
What city is Ball State University in?
Ball State University operates from Muncie, United States.
Is Ball State University a public or private institution?
Ball State University is a public institution.
How big is Ball State University's student body?
Ball State University serves approximately 20,000-24,999 students.
What is Ball State University's ranking?
Ball State University is ranked #2879 globally and #329 in United States.
How is Ball State University organised academically?
The institution comprises 7 academic units.
Who recognises Ball State University?
Yes, Ball State University is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.
What is Ball State University's official website?
The institution's website is www.bsu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
the United States's most prominent universities are listed below — relevant for assessing Ball State University's national positioning. National prominence signals not just academic strength but also employer recognition.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Universities affiliated with National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) typically share standards on quality assurance, mobility programmes, and research collaboration. These fellow members are worth knowing if Ball State University's affiliation matters to your shortlisting. Cross-membership institutions often facilitate joint events and credit transfer.
Faculties at nearby universities
Students considering Ball State University often compare it against universities in the same region. Below are nearby institutions with comparable academic departments and student support structures, useful for cross-shortlisting.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Interested in Education & Teaching but want alternatives to Ball State University? These institutions in the United States also offer programmes in this field, each with their own specialisations and admissions paths. Comparing the curriculum across schools often surfaces differences worth weighing.
Universities Compared with Ball State University
Cross-peer scholarship reciprocity exists in some systems where peer institutions accept each other's scholarship students. Worth checking for Ball State University if location flexibility matters.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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