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Where You Find Your Community, Your Purpose, and Your Brightest Future
As the first university in Kansas, we’ve spent more than 165 years helping students discover who they are and who they want to become. You’ll learn in a supportive, tight‑knit community where people know your name and want you to succeed.
A Tradition of Academic Excellence
Since 1858, Baker has built a legacy of rigorous academics, meaningful mentorship, and hands‑on learning. Across our four schools—the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Nursing, School of Professional and Graduate Studies, and School of Education—you’ll find programs that challenge you to think deeply and clearly.
Small class sizes and strong faculty relationships help you stay engaged and supported. You’ll join a community that values curiosity, integrity, and personal growth.
Our Founding
Spiritual Life
Since our founding, Baker has held close ties with the Methodist Episcopal Church, which became the Methodist Church in 1939 and then the United Methodist Church in 1968, and has retained this affiliation. As one of 196 colleges and universities in the United States with connections to the Church, we seek to continue a tradition of devotion to the Christian faith and academic excellence.
Our Leadership
Dr. Jody Fournier, Baker University’s 31st president, assumed office on July 1, 2025. With more than 25 years of higher education leadership experience, he brings a strong track record of advancing student success, strengthening academic programs, fostering partnerships, and driving institutional innovation. Previously provost and vice president at Capital University, Fournier is committed to fiscal stewardship and guiding Baker’s next chapter of excellence and growth.
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Awards & Recognitions
Highest ROI in Kansas (Private Colleges)
Baker University is consistently recognized for its excellence in and out of the classroom. Baker University delivers a return on investment for its students. In fact, the U. S. Department of Education recently revealed that Baker graduates earn higher average salaries than their peers from other universities in Kansas and Baker is the university in Kansas most likely to land its graduates a job. Baker offers the highest return on investment of private colleges in Kansas, according to Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (2022).
Founded in 1858 as the first university in Kansas, Baker is an institution with a storied past.
While standing in the center of our beautiful campus in Baldwin City, a person can do a 360-degree turn and see three buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Lady Margaret Thatcher dedicated our Osborne Chapel, which was moved brick by brick from Sproxton, England. Abraham Lincoln personally donated to the construction of Parmenter Hall.
William Howard Taft, the 27th president of the United States, delivered the first speech on the topic of world peace 100 yards from where our current political scientists study. Given the university’s rich tradition of academic excellence and historical significance—and our parklike campus, which is a registered arboretum and Tree Campus USA award-winner—it’s no surprise that George Will once called Baker University a “Midwestern Hidden Gem.”
College of Distinction
Nationally Recognized for Student Success
Baker University has been named a 2026–2027 College of Distinction for providing an exceptional educational experience centered on student engagement, academic excellence, community, and career preparation.
Christian College of Distinction
Recognized for integrating faith, learning, service, and leadership within a supportive academic community.
Business College of Distinction
Honored for providing innovative business education, practical experiences, and strong career outcomes.
Education College of Distinction
Recognized for preparing future educators through hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and classroom experience.
Nursing College of Distinction
Recognized for excellence in nursing education, clinical preparation, and healthcare workforce readiness.
Career Development College of Distinction
Honored for helping students build successful career pathways through internships, professional development, and employer engagement.
Military Support College of Distinction
Recognized for providing resources, flexibility, and support for military-affiliated students and veterans.
Why Baker Earned This Recognition
Colleges of Distinction recognizes institutions that demonstrate excellence in four areas that directly contribute to student success.
Engaged Students
Students participate in meaningful learning both inside and outside the classroom through research, leadership, service, athletics, and experiential learning.
Great Teaching
Faculty members provide personalized mentorship and high-impact learning experiences in small class environments.
Vibrant Communities
Students become part of an engaged and supportive campus community focused on belonging, leadership, and connection.
Successful Outcomes
Graduates leave Baker prepared for successful careers, advanced study, leadership opportunities, and lifelong impact.