Since Butler's founding in 1855 by attorney and abolitionist Ovid Butler, the University has challenged and supported students in a liberal-arts environment that fosters both intellectual and social growth while providing practical, "real-world" skills. With over 60 major academic fields of study in six colleges, multiple opportunities to study abroad, and renowned faculty, Butler's curriculum gives students an experience of a lifetime and an edge that defies the norm.

The University is situated in the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood on a 295-acre campus approximately five miles from downtown Indianapolis. With its convenient location, Butler is a destination for events in the Indianapolis community.