School Details
Stanford University, founded in 1885, is a private not-for-profit, four-year institution of higher education, located in the city of Stanford, California. Leland Stanford, a well-known entrepreneur and politician, and his wife, Jane, lost their only son to typhoid fever at the age of 15. Desiring to leave a legacy for all children in their beloved state of California, they established Stanford University in his memory.
Breaking from tradition, Stanford began as a co-educational and non-denominational institution. Today, the university continues to be at the forefront in research universities and maintains close connections to Silicon Valley. The school is known as a place of creativity, innovation, and discovery.
Distance education programs at Stanford University are supported through Stanford Online. Programs include graduate certificates, professional certificates, and master’s programs that can be earned completely online. Students anywhere in the world can learn from respected experts in their field, at a pace that works for their lives.
Academic programs resulting in degrees and certificates from the bachelor’s to the doctoral level are housed in the following educational divisions:
- Business
- Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences
- Education
- Engineering
- Humanities and Sciences
- Law
- Medicine
Accreditation & Licensing
Stanford University is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Stanford University is located in California
California at a Glance:

Top Majors in California:
Top Incentives in California:
- Cal Grant Program: Up to $12,570 annually
- Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition and fees
- Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Full tuition coverage
Top Career Pathways in California:
- Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
- Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($150,000)
- Senior Level: Technical Director ($200,000+)
- Required Education: BS Computer Science
- Certifications: AWS, Security+, CISSP
- Entry Level: Clinical Manager ($75,000)
- Mid Level: Hospital Administrator ($120,000)
- Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($180,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
- Entry Level: Environmental Specialist ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Environmental Manager ($110,000)
- Senior Level: Sustainability Director ($160,000+)
- Required Education: BS Environmental Science
- Certifications: CHMM, PE