Boston College is a private Catholic Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Founded in 1863 by the Society of Jesus, the university has more than 15,000 total students. The university offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees through its eight colleges and schools. Its main campus is a historic district and f…Boston College is a private Catholic Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Founded in 1863 by the Society of Jesus, the university has more than 15,000 total students. The university offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees through its eight colleges and schools. Its main campus is a historic district and features some of the earliest examples of collegiate gothic architecture in North America. The campus is 6 miles west of downtown Boston.