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Founded in 1880 by Charles Wesley Emerson as a "school of oratory ," the college offers more than three dozen degree and professional training programs specializing in the fields of arts and communication with a foundation in liberal arts studies.
Since our founding in 1880, Emerson has evolved from a small New England school of oratory to a multifaceted college with an international reputation, all while reviving and transforming our beloved downtown Boston.
Shortly after the death of Monroe and the closure of the School of Oratory at Boston University, Emerson opened the Boston Conservatory of Elocution, Oratory, and Dramatic Art in 1880. A year later, the name was changed to the Monroe Conservatory of Oratory, in honor of Monroe.
Communication has been at the heart of Emerson’s mission since our founding in 1880 as a school of oratory. Today, in a society where the means of communication are more diverse and complex than ever, we remain a leader in preparing students for what it takes, and what’s to come.
Over the years, Emerson has evolved from a small New England school of oratory to a multifaceted college with an international reputation. The Emerson approach has always been compelling—you learn by doing complemented by study that deepens your understanding.
Jun 22, 2024 · Originally an oratory school, Emerson has remained committed to a broad study of communication. It was one of the first colleges to offer programs in children’s theatre, broadcasting, and film. In 1980 Emerson introduced an innovative graduate program in publishing.
He enrolled in Boston University's School of Oratory in 1877, studying Delsarte and Swedenborg under the direction of Professor Lewis B. Monroe. In 1880, he established his own school, the Boston Conservatory of Elocution and Dramatic Art, which was to become Emerson College.
