Clark University brand mark

Clark University

Worcester, United States Founded 1887 World Rank #3550

Updated Jun 2026

Overview

English Name: Clark University
Acronyms: CU
Founded: 1887
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
World Rank: #3550
Rank in United States: #386
Motto: Challenge Convention, Change Our World
Colours: Red and white
Mascot: Cougar
Approach to Clark University campus
1 / 4

Founded in 1887, the Clark University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Worcester (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Massachusetts.

Officially accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Clark University (CU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Clark University (CU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 136-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 40-49% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.

CU 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

Looking to reach Clark University? Address, contact details, and online links below. For finance and tuition payment queries, the bursar or finance office is typically a separate contact point.

Address: 950 Main Street
Postal Code: 01610-1477
Map:
Phone: +1 (508) 793 7711
Fax: +1 (508) 793 8821
Social Media:

Academic Details

Clark University's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.

Recognition: New England Commission of Higher Education
Total Students: 2,214
Student Enrollment: 3
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Colleges of Worcester Consortium National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Programs Offered

The programmes available at Clark University are organised by level. Most institutions cluster intake decisions by faculty, so application timelines often run in waves through the year.

89 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 43 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Area Studies
Social & Cultural Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Linguistics & Language Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Media Studies
Communication Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General
Computer Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
Computer Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections
Criminal Law & Justice

Showing 10 of 43.

Master's Degree 29 programmes

Master's Degree in Accounting and Related Services
Accounting
Master's Degree in Applied Mathematics
Mathematics
Master's Degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Master's Degree in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Master's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry
Master's Degree in Communication and Media Studies
Communication Studies
Master's Degree in Community Organization and Advocacy
Public Administration
Master's Degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General
Computer Sciences
Master's Degree in Computer Science
Computer Sciences

Showing 10 of 29.

Doctorate 11 programmes

Doctorate in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Doctorate in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Doctorate in Chemistry
Chemistry
Doctorate in Economics
Economics
Doctorate in Education, General
Education & Teaching
Doctorate in Geography and Cartography
Geography
Doctorate in Geography and Environmental Studies
Liberal Arts
Doctorate in History
History
Doctorate in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Liberal Arts
Doctorate in Physics
Physics & Astronomy

Showing 10 of 11.

Certificate 1 programme

Certificate in Social Work
Social Work

Postgraduate Certificate 5 programmes

Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Postgraduate Certificate in Human Services, General
Public Administration
Postgraduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies
Politics & International Relations
Postgraduate Certificate in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Liberal Arts
Postgraduate Certificate in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
Pharmacy

How to apply to Clark University

Practical steps to apply to Clark University, suitable as a starting checklist before contacting the admissions team directly.

  1. 1
    Browse the programme catalogue

    Clark University's catalogue includes 89 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 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 Clark University's admissions process.

  3. 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.

  4. 4
    Apply through the official channel

    Submit your completed application through Clark University's official website at www.clarku.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.

  5. 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 (508) 793 7711. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Clark University

A short Q&A covering Clark University's essentials — founding, location, scale, ranking, and academic structure.

When was Clark University founded?

Clark University was established in 1887 (approximately 139 years ago).

What city is Clark University in?

Clark University operates from Worcester, United States.

Is Clark University a public or private institution?

Clark University is a private institution.

How big is Clark University's student body?

Clark University serves approximately 3,000-3,999 students.

Where does Clark University stand in university rankings?

It ranks #3550 globally and #386 in United States.

Is Clark University officially recognised?

Clark University is accredited by New England Commission of Higher Education.

Where can I learn more about Clark University?

You can find Clark University online at www.clarku.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Some the United States systems publish government rating frameworks (NIRF, QS Stars, regulatory grading) alongside rankings. These add independent signals beyond commercial ranking tables.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Beyond Clark University, these universities also belong to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) — useful for students who weight inter-institutional partnerships, exchange programmes, or shared accreditation frameworks. Membership networks often translate into practical student benefits.

Faculties at nearby universities

Universities near Clark University often have cross-enrolment or visiting-student arrangements that let students take modules at the partner institution. Worth checking if subject coverage at Clark University is narrow in your area.

Where Else to Study Liberal Arts

Other universities in the United States that teach Liberal Arts appear below — useful for comparing programme depth against Clark University. Programme structures differ even within the same country, so detailed comparison is worth the effort.

Universities Compared with Clark University

Students considering Clark University frequently compare it against the universities listed below. The comparison set reflects revealed-preference data from how applicants actually build shortlists.

Browse all articles →

Spotted something outdated or missing?

Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.

Explore More Universities in United States

Free calculators and converters to plan your study-abroad journey.

Latest Articles

Fresh guides and advice for studying abroad.

View all →

Compare Compare