Gleason Archer’s benefactor loaned him money so that he could complete his law degree. In return, the benefactor requested he do the same. As a result, Archer founded Suffolk School of Law in 1906, a night school to serve the growing immigrant population in Boston. Archer continued to devote his time to the school and, by 1930, it had become one of the most extensive law schools in America. As time progressed, programs expanded to include studies in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as business. The school eventually transitioned into Suffolk University. 

Academic programs give students the opportunity to earn degrees and certificates at all levels and are housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, Sawyer Business School, and Suffolk Law School. Suffolk offers online and hybrid courses within all its programs, and students can earn an MBA completely online.